The Elements of Composition

The long-term future of writing is unclear. What is more apparent is that the personal, professional, and academic products of writing are trending toward new genres and spaces for communication. As the categories of writing expand, so must our ability to adapt and work effectively within these changes.

The Elements of Composition allows students to build a set of skills and processes in the production of both traditional and modern compositions.

It merges the traditional academic goals of instructors with the genres that students recognize and enjoy. Throughout its chapters, the book develops the academic contexts for web-based writing. Each chapter begins with an activity that previews the elements and learning goals covered throughout the chapter.

The title engages students within three popular discourse communities: Academic, Business, and Community. This framework empowers instructors the flexibility to teach students transferable skills for their college careers and beyond, no matter what discipline or career they are preparing for. Because the content of the textbook will be modular, professors can select different “learning paths” based on their institutional focus.