Open English

Open English is a corequisite program designed to provide students with additional support as they complete Composition 1. While the program was originally intended to allow students with a developmental placement to complete college-level coursework more quickly, it has grown into two models that offer benefits to any student looking to build skills while taking ENG-101.

Both models of Open English pair ENG-101 with a second course, and students enroll in both sections. Because the same students are in each of the sections, Open English builds a sense of community and gives students an opportunity to connect with peers. These relationships allow students to work together, learning from one another.

Option 1: ENG-101 (Composition 1) and DWT-099 (Review for College Writing)

In this model, ENG-101 material is supported by an additional section focusing on the rules for organizing and writing paragraphs and essays. Students spend the extra time developing an understanding of English grammar and essay development, building the skills necessary to express ideas clearly in written English.

To place into this model of Open English, students must score a 3 or higher on the WritePlacer essay.

Option 2: ENG-101 (Composition 1) and PHL-120 (Critical Thinking)

In this model, ENG-101 material is supported by an additional section focusing on logic and argument. Students spend more time learning how to think critically, question assumptions, make claims, and link ideas and evidence together. In addition to strengthening academic writing habits, this combination of coursework is ideal for students looking to develop the skills necessary for many of STCC’s technical and medical programs.

To place into this model of Open English, students must score a 4 or higher on the WritePlacer essay.