111-28-Class-Evaluation-Erica-Morrow

Erica Morrow
111-28-Class Evaluation
4 March 2009
TCC English Composition 111
When first introduced into College Composition, expectations were obscured by common allegations of what College Classes are like. I figured English 111 would be no different; in fact it was the exact opposite. Paul Gasparo as my brilliant instructor made the experience more rewarding and exciting.
Common allegations of College classes can discourage any freshman. For example, instructors use traditional methods of teaching, their classes are filled with lectures and extremely high expectations, and tests are given every day. To my surprise Paul Gasparo’s English course number 111 is the exact opposite.
He introduced himself with a brief analysis of his past and present, along with expectations he had for the class. The directions for assignment layouts and presentations were thoroughly explained from the start; there was no confusion in understanding from my part. Lessons were effectively planned and not a single lesson was constructed the same, which made classes more interesting. It is like looking through a kaleidoscope. You get excited every time you look through it, because you know the next pattern is different from the one before.
Mr. Gasparo also incorporates the students occupying his class; He shows interest in their opinions as well as commenting on them, He plans class discussions so you feel less pressured on giving answers, and he also makes you think rhetorically not just about English works of Art, but about different aspects in everyday life. I applaud this instructor for his efforts in helping students understand the importance of Rhetorical Analysis and using Rhetorical appeals whenever possible.
Also to my pleasant surprise, tests were not part of the English 111 curriculum (At least not in Mr. Gasparo’s section 28 classes). One fond memory of class is when Gasparo asked about whether or not students read the selection assigned for class. After finding that 75 percent of the students had not read their homework assignment, he threatened us with a test about reading selections every class. He continued with the explanation that: Reading is important and required in order to comprehend the lesson given and connect that lesson with other aspects of our lives.
Mr. Gasparo’s classes are informative and exciting. We zoom in on important lessons for the curriculum while having fun with them. In this section Gasparo used movies, songs, class discussions, peer reviews, and presentations to effectively engage his students in their academics. His use of Super Size Me and Maxed Out as examples of Argument was genius. Showing movies that pertain to the days’ agenda, while discussing why the movie coincides with the lesson, is extremely effective in academically engaging students.
Paul Gasparo is the best English teacher I ever had. We share the same dislikes of our former President Bush. I also enjoyed his seldom sarcasm, and was never demeaning or insulting. He is always fair in treatment towards students; no favoritism. The lessons always kept the gears in my brain from rusting. Also, being in his class is rewarding; I have confidence in my writing skill. I also learned how to use rhetorical tools and appeals to persuade others, and how other use those same appeals to persuade me.
Tidewater Community College Freshmen: If you’ve already signed up for English 111, Section 28 and Paul Gasparo is not your instructor, SWITCH NOW. His class will help you understand the impossible, write more concisely than you ever have. It is rewarding to be taught by a knowledgeable professor like Gasparo. He gives you the road map to succeed in English without the roadkill.