ENGL 191 explores Science Fiction not only as a literary genre, but also as a means of how humans make sense of the world. Through analysis and discussion of texts students will engage with how Science Fiction provides a space for us to analyze and comment upon world events, popular culture, dis/ability, gender, sexuality, race, and identity. Possible texts include The Stars My Destination, Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep? Neuromancer, and Noor. This course will also analyze the themes and messages presented through visual mediums such as Fritz Lang's Metropolis and Janelle Monae's Dirty Computer. Science Fiction serves as an excellent genre within which to ask (and answer) the larger question of "What does it mean to be human?" -- a question that becomes more relevant as we grapple with the challenges presented through AI, bioengineering, class and political strife, gender and identity debates, and metaverses.

ENGL 15 is a rhetorically based experience in reading and writing that will prepare you both to understand the communications that surround you and to succeed in your own communication efforts. The goal of ENGL 15 is to help you build on what you already know how to do as you become a more confident reader and writer. You will become more attuned to your goals as a writer, more aware of the ongoing conversation surrounding the topic, and more resourceful in terms of the appropriate delivery of your information, the rhetorical appeals at your disposal, and the needs and expectations of your audience.