In this class, your writing should be your own. That means doing your own thinking and using your own words.
More than anything, I want to hear your thoughts and read your writing—even if those thoughts are still forming or your writing feels messy. That’s part of the process! We’ll be focusing on drafting, revising, and developing ideas over time. Grading in this class reflects that process, not perfection or polished grammar. My goal is to help you find and strengthen your writing voice. But I can’t give you useful and meaningful feedback on your writing if the writing isn't yours.
So, don’t copy someone else’s work, have someone else write your paper, or use AI tools to create full or partial drafts.
If you’re ever unsure about what’s okay, just ask. I’m here to support you—not to catch you doing something wrong. Still, academic dishonesty is serious and can result in a failing grade on the assignment or in the course.
Bottom line: do your own work, trust the process, and ask for help when you need it.
There will be opportunities to explore GenAI as a writing tool and as part of the writing process in this class, and we'll talk more about that throughout the semester. But it will still be important to start with your own ideas and your own writing. See the full Generative AI Policy and Guidelines for more information.
You will not use secondary research in your writing this semester (i.e. articles from the internet, news articles, information from books). The papers and writing assignments in this class will use primary research (such as observations and references to writing samples that you collect online).
Research writing, including how to research, evaluating sources, and writing about secondary sources, is covered in ENGL 1190.