Critical Reading and Textual Analysis in College English

Assignment Brief

EAC150 - College English

Subject Description

College English is an introductory college writing and reading course fundamental to successful college studies. Through a variety of assignments and classroom activities, students will strive to develop the rhetorical and analytical skills essential to their success as communicators in college and upon graduation. Fiction and non-fiction will be a central vehicle for teaching writing.

Learning Outcomes: EAC150 - College English

Upon successful completion of this subject the student will be able to:

1. Read fiction and non-fiction critically, identifying the major theme(s) and/or arguments, and understanding the major points through textual analysis.

2. a) Construct an argument based on a critical analysis of the text.
   b) Develop that argument in essay format by:

   • limiting the topic

   • formulating a clear thesis

   • developing well-constructed paragraphs

   • integrating textual support through quotation, paraphrase, and summary

   • editing for unity, coherence, organization, and thoroughness

3. Find, assess, integrate, and document primary and/or secondary sources into their own writing according to current MLA guidelines.

4. Produce effective research writing through the completion of a research project.

5. Use correct English grammar, punctuation, spelling, and sentence mechanics in all writing assignments.

Starting your answer from the learning outcome that states to read fiction and non-fiction critically, identifying the major theme(s) and/or arguments, and understanding the major points through textual analysis.

Sample Answer

Critical Reading and Textual Analysis in College English

Reading Fiction and Non-Fiction Critically

One of the central learning outcomes of College English is the ability to read both fiction and non-fiction critically. This skill involves more than simply understanding the words on the page. Instead, it requires the reader to identify the major themes or arguments within a text and to evaluate how effectively they are presented. For instance, in a short story, themes such as isolation, resilience, or justice may emerge through character development and setting. In a non-fiction essay, an argument might focus on the importance of education reform or the consequences of climate change. Critical reading means recognising these key ideas and questioning how they are supported by evidence, structure, and style. By doing so, students develop a deeper awareness of meaning beyond the surface level of the text.

Constructing an Argument from Analysis

Once a text has been critically examined, the next step is to construct an argument based on the analysis. This process requires the student to limit the topic to a manageable focus, avoiding vague or overly broad claims. For example, instead of writing about “love in literature,” a student might argue that “in Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice, the theme of love challenges social class divisions.” A clear thesis such as this allows the essay to remain focused while also inviting deeper exploration. Constructing an argument also means addressing counterpoints where appropriate, demonstrating that the student has not only identified a theme or argument but has also weighed its complexities and limitations.

Developing an Essay with Textual Support

An effective essay does not merely state opinions; it builds them on solid textual evidence. Paragraphs should be well constructed, beginning with a topic sentence and developed with explanation and support. Quotations, paraphrases, and summaries from the text provide this support, but they must be integrated smoothly. For example, if a non-fiction author argues that “education is the foundation of democracy,” the student must explain how this claim relates to their own thesis, rather than leaving the quotation to stand on its own. Proper integration ensures that the argument remains coherent and persuasive, while also demonstrating close engagement with the text.

Editing for Unity and Coherence

Good writing is as much about revision as it is about drafting. Unity and coherence are achieved when each paragraph clearly supports the overall thesis, and when ideas flow logically from one to another. Editing also involves eliminating repetition, clarifying unclear phrases, and ensuring consistency in tone and style. For instance, an essay that begins with a formal analysis should not suddenly shift into informal storytelling. Coherence is further supported by transitions that link ideas smoothly. The editing process, therefore, transforms a collection of observations into a polished, organised piece of academic writing.

Research and the Use of Sources

In addition to close reading, students must also learn to find, assess, and integrate secondary sources. This strengthens their essays by placing their arguments within a broader scholarly conversation. For example, a student analysing George Orwell’s 1984 might draw on secondary sources discussing surveillance and power in modern society. Following MLA guidelines ensures that these sources are documented accurately, protecting the writer from plagiarism and allowing readers to trace the ideas back to their original context. The skill of integrating sources is essential not only for college essays but also for professional communication after graduation.

Producing Effective Research Writing

The ability to complete a research project is another vital outcome of College English. Research writing encourages students to move beyond their own interpretations and engage with multiple perspectives. This process teaches critical thinking, as students must decide which sources are credible and relevant. A successful research essay combines original analysis with the insights of others, producing work that is both evidence-based and original. In this way, research projects prepare students to participate in academic and professional debates with confidence and rigour.

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