Over the course of English 131, we will be evaluating and practicing the techniques employed by readers and writers in varying situations.  More specifically, we will learn to recognize how writers use different tools—tone, style, genre conventions—to meet the demands of specific audiences or groups. Furthermore, we will use texts as a starting point for writerly inquiry. From this evidence, we will learn to produce strategic and exploratory arguments and to define the stakes thereof.  Along the way, we will sharpen what tools we may already have (grammar, punctuation, mechanics, logic) for making our arguments clear and compelling.  The goal is to become strong, flexible, and confident as both readers and writers of diverse academic texts.