Writing begins with transforming ideas and observations into words. N. Scott Momaday says that “a word has power in and of itself. It comes from nothing into sound and meaning; it gives origin to all things.”
This course uses Indigenist pedagogies and elements of style to expand critical thinking and creative writing skills within academic discourse and through a community writing process. Western and Indigenous Ontology, Epistemology, Axiology, and Methodology will be considered, and strategic problem-solving through craft will be encouraged. In order to gain multi-level perspectives, we will incorporate both Indigenous and Western methods and apply them to imaginative research and argument. Starting with a review of the writing process, this course will reflect on craft essays by Indigenous authors and move into research writing using multiple modes.
Elements of writing explored and practiced: Critical thinking, low-stakes writing, mechanics and personal style, research questions, project planning, close reading of primary and secondary sources, writing in community, style guides (MLA), and effective editing and revision practices. This is a welcoming environment for any student wanting to strengthen their writing, research, close reading, story-telling, and critical thinking skills. Online synchronous via zoom 6-930 p.m. Mondays.
Anticipated Credit Equivalencies:
2 - Writing and Rhetoric
2 - American Indian and Indigenous Studies