Plant Biology: Intro to Professional Writing (A)

About PBIO 6330 A

Writing seminar that focuses on close observation of the natural world and interpreting scientific findings for public audiences. Includes preparation of an animal encounter and science brief, as well as reading of published natural history and ecology essays. Prerequisite: Field Naturalist Program Graduate student.

Notes

Field Naturalist Graduate students only; Meeting time and place TBA; Contact instructor for meeting location and time Open to degree and PACE students

Section Description

This course invites students to close observation of the natural world and to regular practice in writing about it. Key assignments include an animal encounter, a tree climb, a close observation of one the “little things” (perhaps an insect or fungi), and a long walk—and then reflective writing to explore these experiences. Each of these explorations is bolstered by reading and discussion of published professional writing on the same topic. For example, students may read Annie Dillard’s seminal essay on an animal encounter, “Living Like Weasels”; Bernd Heinrich’s close observation of burying beetles; Richard Preston’s account in the New Yorker of climbing redwoods. The second half of the course focuses on writing about science—interpreting technical findings for public audiences. Students practice and share science “briefs” that distill new peer-reviewed journal studies. Additional assignments may include writing an opinion piece or newspaper-style explainer article about a scientific controversy or mystery.

Section Expectation

Students are expected to complete weekly writing projects, read short articles, actively participate in class discussions, read their own work aloud, revise vigorously, and foster a supportive and creative group.

Evaluation

Students are evaluated based on attendance, discussion, in-class writing, in-class presentations, demonstrated joy of learning—and, mostly, writing projects. Engagement and determination count a lot in this course. A writer’s level of effort is most apparent in words on the page. A genuine interest in writing, which basically means writing with diligence and receptiveness to criticism and revision, is a key to success in this course. In terms of a grade, the extent to which students improve their writing will be as important as what they actually write. Grading rubric:
Proficiency and power 35% 

Improvement of craft 35% 

Meeting deadlines 10%
Participation in class 10%

Important Dates

Note: These dates may change before registration begins.

Courses may be cancelled due to low enrollment. Show your interest by enrolling.

Resources

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• PACE Course Pricing
• Textbooks