Communication (COM)

COM-088. Introduction to Composition. (5 Credits)

This course is designed to help students develop the writing skills necessary for college-level courses, including the composition of paragraphs and essays, an understanding of the writing process, the introductory use of sources, and the basics of grammar and punctuation. This course may be taken three times to accomplish a grade of "B" or "C" to satisfy the prerequisite requirements for the COM-101/COM-098 Bridge course. An earned grade of "A" satisfies the prerequisite requirement COM-101. (5 contact hours)

COM-098. COM-Bridge. (1 Credit)

This course supplements COM-101 instruction for students enrolled in the Bridge Program. Covers developing the topic sentence, ordering ideas and achieving coherence in paragraphs, and using research to clarify explanations and support arguments. This course runs in tandem with linked COM-101 section. In order to earn a passing grade in COM-101, students must earn a "C" or better in both COM-098 and COM-101. (2 contact hours)

COM-101. Composition I. (3 Credits)

Designed to teach clear and effective expository prose, with emphasis on organization, clarity and coherence. Learn to adapt style to various readers and use research to clarify explanations and to support arguments. A grade of "C" or better is required for this course to transfer under the guidelines of the Illinois Articulation Initiative (IAI). Fee is required. (3 contact hours)

COM-102. Composition II. (3 Credits)

Analytical and critical writing based upon texts. Research is used to incorporate supporting ideas drawn from primary and secondary sources. A grade of "C" or better is required for this course to transfer under the guidelines of the Illinois Articulation Initiative (IAI). Fee is required. (3 contact hours)

COM-103. Speech Fundamentals. (3 Credits)

Introduction to basic oral communication principles and skills, challenges of cultural diversity and gender equity. Includes study and practice in public speaking and discussion, preparation and organization, and delivery techniques. This course satisfies the requirements of Public Act 87-581. (3 contact hours)

COM-104. Introduction to Creative Writing. (3 Credits)

This course introduces creative writing as a craft developed through a process of active reading, habitual writing and peer critiquing in a workshop setting. (3 contact hours)

COM-106. Creative Writing, Poetry. (3 Credits)

This course is an examination and application of prosody, textual conventions, and theories of writing poetry through analysis and student writing. (3 contact hours)

COM-107. Creative Writing, Fiction. (3 Credits)

This course is an exploration and application of techniques, conventions and theories of writing fiction through analysis and student writing. (3 contact hours)

COM-108. Creative Writing Literary Nonfiction. (3 Credits)

This course is an exploration and application of techniques, conventions and theories of writing literary non-fiction through analysis and student writing. The study of non-fiction forms will include memoir, profile, literary journalism, and stories of craft. Additional ways to tell the non-fiction story also will be addressed, including humor, visuals, and multigenre pieces. Emphasis will be placed on the writing and creative process. (3 contact hours)

COM-120. Introduction to Linguistics. (3 Credits)

Fundamentals of linguistics are covered. Emphasize speech behavior as interaction. Topics include origins, functions and limitations of language. (3 contact hours)

COM-123. Applied Forensics. (3 Credits)

Includes instruction and practical experience in competitive speech events, such as impromptu and persuasive speaking, rhetorical analysis and oral interpretation. Selection, analysis and preparation of material are covered. Competitive performance is required. Cannot be repeated for credit. (5 contact hours)

COM-125. Tutoring Internship. (1 Credit)

An introduction to tutoring in the Writing Center with emphasis on the interaction between tutor and client, and the options and strategies open to tutors to manage the tutoring session. Includes a review of grammar, writing skills, research and documentation, and a survey of the types of writing done in various disciplines at the college. This course may be taken four times for credit. (1 contact hour)

COM-151. Student Publications Seminar. (1 Credit)

Earn up to four credit hours for participation in production of student publications. Includes weekly seminars. Teaches communication skills and publication production. (2 contact hours)

COM-152. Student Publications Seminar. (1 Credit)

Earn up to four credit hours for participation in production of student publications. Includes weekly seminars. Teaches communication skills and publication production. (2 contact hours)

COM-153. Student Publications Seminar. (1 Credit)

Earn up to four credit hours for participation in production of student publications. Includes weekly seminars. Teaches communication skills and publication production. (2 contact hours)

COM-154. Student Publications Seminar. (1 Credit)

Earn up to four credit hours for participation in production of student publications. Includes weekly seminars. Teaches communication skills and publication production. (2 contact hours)

COM-201. Business and Technical Writing. (3 Credits)

Improves writing in a variety of business and technical fields, both in college and on the job. (3 contact hours)

COM-203. Interpersonal Communication. (3 Credits)

Introduces the study of interaction between people that focuses on the importance of sensitivity to various communications. Provides a communication perspective of interpersonal relationships, covering relational maintenance and decline, listening, conflict, the self-concept, cultural impacts on relationships, and interpersonal communication in work and family contexts. (3 contact hours)

COM-204. Argumentation. (3 Credits)

This course will emphasize principles and methods of critical decision-making through argumentation and debate, including analysis of issues; collection and evaluation of evidence; evaluation of argument and reasoning; techniques of attack and defense in oral argumentation. Students will engage in formal debate. (3 contact hours)