Module Details

The information contained in this module specification was correct at the time of publication but may be subject to change, either during the session because of unforeseen circumstances, or following review of the module at the end of the session. Queries about the module should be directed to the member of staff with responsibility for the module.
Title Close Reading
Code ENGL203
Coordinator Prof G Rudd
English
G.A.Rudd@liverpool.ac.uk
Year CATS Level Semester CATS Value
Session 2019-20 Level 5 FHEQ First Semester 15

Aims

To foster and enhance the skills of close reading by drawing attention to what is needed. To read texts attentively and to acquire appropriate vocabulary and techniques for successful close reading.  Consider the implications of these categories for both writing and reading literary texts. To enable students to criticise and write focused critical essays on the basis of their attentive reading,  discuss mattes such as form, structure, voice and genre with confidence and using appropriate vocabulary. To expand our understanding and appreciation of texts and to consider the implications of using categories such as genre, structure, voice and form when analysing and discussing text.


Learning Outcomes

(LO1) The abilityto demonstrate an intermediate-level understanding of the principles and aims of literary criticism, including offering intelligent and informed responses to a range of literary texts from a variety of periods.

(LO2) The ability to deploy analytical and critical vocabulary for the discussion of English literature with some level of sophistication and to demonstrate the knowledge and skills of close reading in informed discussion, both orally and in the writing of structured, lucid and informed critical essays

(LO3) To enhance the ability to listen attentively and garner relevant information, practice and knowledge from views presented by others.

(S1) Information skills - Critical reading

(S2) Communication (oral, written and visual) - Presentation skills - written

(S3) Improving own learning/performance - self-awareness/self-analysis

(S4) Communication (oral, written and visual) - Listening skills

(S5) Time and project management - Personal organisation

(S6) Critical thinking and problem solving - Critical analysis


Syllabus

 

This module covers poetry and prose written in English covering a wide period from the Middle Ages to the present day. Major genres and forms are always covered such as the sonnet, irony, realism. 


Teaching and Learning Strategies

Teaching Method 1 - Lectures
Description: Weekly lectures offer a range of close reading techniques, information on form and genre and demonstrations by various members of staff of ways of close reading.
Attendance Recorded: Yes

Teaching Method 2 - Tutorials
Description: Weekly tutorials consist of groups of no more than 9 students and one tutor, who meet each week to look at passages or short texts in detail. Information gained from lectures and elsewhere is applied to texts and close reading skills and skills of literary discussion are developed.
Attendance Recorded: No

Teaching Method 3 - Drop in session
Description: An additional opportunity to discuss the syllabus and students' work in more detail with the module convenor
Attendance Recorded: No
Notes: This activity is optional


Teaching Schedule

  Lectures Seminars Tutorials Lab Practicals Fieldwork Placement Other TOTAL
Study Hours 12

  11

    2

25
Timetable (if known)              
Private Study 125
TOTAL HOURS 150

Assessment

EXAM Duration Timing
(Semester)
% of
final
mark
Resit/resubmission
opportunity
Penalty for late
submission
Notes
Written Exam There is a resit opportunity. This is an anonymous assessment. Assessment Schedule (When) :1st semester assessment period  Two Hours    50       
CONTINUOUS Duration Timing
(Semester)
% of
final
mark
Resit/resubmission
opportunity
Penalty for late
submission
Notes
Coursework There is a resit opportunity. Standard UoL penalty applies for late submission. This is an anonymous assessment. Assessment Schedule (When) :Semester 1  A portfolio of work     50       

Recommended Texts

Reading lists are managed at readinglists.liverpool.ac.uk. Click here to access the reading lists for this module.