Freshman Composition 

The composition program at Western New England College provides a foundation in writing and analytic reading for a diverse group of incoming freshmen and transfer students.  The program is designed to sharpen students' rhetorical skills and to teach them how to approach unfamiliar texts with confidence.   

The two course sequence begins with English 132, a standard course focused on the analytic reading of prose non-fiction from a variety of disciplines and on the writing of accurate and effective prose using a variety of techniques.   

English 133 continues the emphasis on writing and analytic reading with a focus on literature and the three major literary genres: poetry, fiction, and drama.  Building on the work of English 132, this course helps students recognize the writer's intention, central ideas, organization, and uses of language.  The course also introduces various tools for practicing fundamental literary analysis.

For students who need more extensive practice with grammar, mechanics, and the principles of writing, the LA 150/151 one-credit lab connects them to on-going writing support.  Students get weekly practice with drafting, revising, and editing in a conducive one-on-one mentoring environment.   

For non-native speakers of English, there are several options depending on the student's proficiency: 

• English 100 is a course in English as a Second Language for intermediate students.
• English 132/133 with a linked LA 250/251 lab is a course for bilingual students who demonstrate competence.
• The standard English 132/133 sequence is open to bilingual students who demonstrate exceptional English language skills. 

For additional information about composition courses, please contact Lisa Drnec Kerr at 413-796-2303, or email lkerr@wnec.edu