Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Fall 2026 - ENGL 199W D100

Writing to Persuade (3)

Class Number: 2624

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Sep 9 – Dec 6, 2026: Mon, Wed, 11:30 a.m.–12:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

  • Prerequisites:

    12 units.

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

An introduction to reading and writing from a rhetorical perspective. The course treats reading and writing as activities that take place in particular circumstances and situations, in contrast to the traditional emphasis on decontextualized, formal features of texts. It prepares students for reading and writing challenges they are likely to encounter within and beyond the classroom. Students with credit for ENGL 199 may not take this course for further credit. Writing.

COURSE DETAILS:

The Greek philosopher and rhetorician Aristotle defines rhetoric as "the faculty of observing, in any given case, the available means of persuasion." Since the available means of persuasion will be different with different audiences, in different settings, and for different topics, we will analyze a variety of examples to discover how writers attempt to write effectively for both academic and non-academic purposes. Students will have the opportunity to analyze the sort of persuasive writing found in their chosen or intended major here at SFU.

COURSE-LEVEL EDUCATIONAL GOALS:

  • developing a purposeful and productive approach to the writing process
  • becoming a more effective and confident reader and writer

Grading

  • draft of a piece of persuasive writing for a non-academic audience on a topic of public interest, c750 words 10%
  • revised version of the above, c750 words 25%
  • draft of a piece of persuasive writing for an academic audience, c1,000 words 10%
  • revised version of the above, c1,000 words 25%
  • two brief rhetorical analyses of academic essays from two different disciplines, c600 words each 20%
  • participation 10%

Materials

MATERIALS + SUPPLIES:

This class will often involve in-class writing, so students should bring a laptop or equivalent to each class, or pen and paper for those who prefer to write that way.

REQUIRED READING:

All readings will be available online or on Canvas

Department Undergraduate Notes:

IMPORTANT NOTE Re 300 and 400 level courses: 75% of spaces in 300 level English courses, and 100% of spaces in 400 level English courses, are reserved for declared English Major, Minor, Extended Minor, Joint Major, and Honours students only, until open enrollment begins.

For all On-Campus Courses, please note the following:
- To receive credit for the course, students must complete all requirements.
- Tutorials/Seminars WILL be held the first week of classes.
- When choosing your schedule, remember to check "Show lab/tutorial sections" to see all Lecture/Seminar/Tutorial times required.

Registrar Notes:

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS

At SFU, you are expected to act honestly and responsibly in all your academic work. Cheating, plagiarism, or any other form of academic dishonesty harms your own learning, undermines the efforts of your classmates who pursue their studies honestly, and goes against the core values of the university.

To learn more about the academic disciplinary process and relevant academic supports, visit: 


RELIGIOUS ACCOMMODATION

Students with a faith background who may need accommodations during the term are encouraged to assess their needs as soon as possible and review the Multifaith religious accommodations website. The page outlines ways they begin working toward an accommodation and ensure solutions can be reached in a timely fashion.