What is English 115.1?

English 115.1 is modeled after the Accelerated Learning Program (ALP) developed by the Community College Baltimore County. ALP is a form of mainstreaming that successfully raises the success rate and lowers the attrition rates of students in composition courses by providing a small group of students with instructor support via a companion course. Instructors teaching English 115.1 meet for one hour each week with a group of no more than 10 students from their own English 110 section.

Who takes English 115.1?

At QC, English 110 students who do not meet a required proficiency score determined by CUNY for writing in English are placed into sections of English 115.1. However, students who are not confident in their writing ability for various reasons, or students who simply need to build in an extra hour to their week while receiving college credit for work that they have to do anyway, can voluntarily sign up for sections of English 115.1.

Are most students in English 115.1 multilingual?

Yes, but mostly because multilingualism is the norm at Queens College. Nearly 70% of our students know a language other than English, and 36% report that their first language is a language other than English. So, while English 115.1 is a class that is usually comprised of multilingual students, it is appropriate for any student who thinks they might benefit from some extra support whether or not they speak additional languages.

What should I do during my English 115.1 class?

Here are some ways that you can use your time with students in your 115.1:

• • answering remaining questions from 110
  • developing ideas for upcoming essay assignments
  • reviewing drafts together in small groups, as a whole class, or individually
  • preparing for an upcoming 110 session
  • answering questions about grammar, syntax, punctuation, and usage
  • giving more support with incorporating textual evidence
  • support with research and citation practices
  • discussing and connecting students with services such as the Writing Center, FYE, or preparing them for office hours
  • discussing how to navigate successfully as a college student

Course Goals

In line with the ALP model, instructors who teach English 115.1 have one clear goal: to maximize students’ likelihood of success in English 110.  In this light, FYW has identified the following expectations for instructors and students of English 115.1.

Expectations for Instructors

• • Understand the cultural differences and literacy practices of writers from a variety of backgrounds.
  • Provide writing models and pedagogical guidance that both matches students’ reading and writing levels and responds to their needs in English 110.
  • Treat 115 as an extension of 110 rather than a separate class with entirely new content, assignments, and course goals.
  • Encourage students’ reflective and active engagement in the writing process.
  • Promote student collaboration and active participation in the classroom.
  • Grade primarily on participation in class activities.

Expectations for Students 

• • Carefully follow a study schedule.
  • Actively participate in class sessions.
  • Maintain communication with instructors.
  • Use the tools and resources available to support their learning.