Copy Editing

Course Code: EN235L

Institution:

Department of Language and Linguistics

Revision:

1

For students admitted fall 2013   spring 2013   fall 2012  

Approval

The course was established 09 February 2012.
This course syllabus (version 1) was approved 28 February 2012 by the Board of Studies at Faculty of Culture and Society (SMS).
The syllabus is valid from 01 September 2012.

Education level

First cycle

Course description

The course introduces the theory and practice of copy editing, which are thereafter transformed into praxis through concrete exercises in text structure, vocabulary, grammar and punctuation, and lexical and stylistic variation.

Advancement in relation to the degree requirements

The course can be included as a part of a general degree at undergraduate level.

Entry requirements

General entry requirements + English B.

Learning outcomes

After finishing the course, the student:

• demonstrates an understanding of the theory and practice of copy editing;
• demonstrates an understanding that copy editing practices must not alter the original author’s voice;
• can make structural changes to texts without losing the original author’s voice;
• can proofread copy for appropriate use of grammar and punctuation without losing the original author’s voice;
• can proofread copy for appropriate level of vocabulary and lexical and stylistic variation without losing the author’s original voice;
• can edit for redundant phrases and ineffective language;
• demonstrates the ability to work to agreed timetables, manage workloads, and meet deadlines

Assessments

The course is examined through

1) a written examination that demonstrates broad skills in the area of copy editing (4 credits) and

2) portfolio assignments (3,5 credits).

The student must receive a passing grade in all examination elements to pass the course. 

Students who do not pass the regular course exams have the minimum of two re-sit opportunities. Re-sits follow the same form as the original exams.


Course content

The course introduces the theory and practice of copy editing, which are thereafter transformed into praxis through concrete exercises in text structure, vocabulary, grammar and punctuation, and lexical and stylistic variation.


Learning activities

Learning activities are lectures, seminars, writing assignments, oral presentations, and self-study of course literature.


Grading system

A,B,C,D,E,U.


Reading list and other media

The online resource MyCompLab. Further details about how to purchase MyCompLab will be provided upon admission to the course.



Additional photocopied material or electronic publications may be introduced by the teacher but no more than 50 pages.


Course evaluation

Evaluation is an integral part of the course. A final written evaluation based on the learning outcomes is done at the end of the course. This evaluation is used as a starting point for an oral evaluation which includes a discussion of measures to be taken to develop the course.