### Class Summary Report
#### Title: Exploring the US Constitution: Foundations of Freedom
In this session, we delved into the foundational aspects of the US Constitution, focusing on the significance of amendments, the art of crafting an expository essay, and the importance of citations and references. Students were encouraged to critically analyze constitutional rights and their implications.
#### Attendance:
– Noted absences: 0
– New student added: Sana
– Total students mentioned: 13
#### Topics Covered:
1. **Introduction to Course Structure and Decision-Making**:
– Discussed course material options (Plan A: working on essays, Plan B: textbook approach).
– Decided on a trial run of Plan A for the week.
2. **Attendance and E-Course Registration**:
– Conducted roll call.
– Emphasized the importance of setting up an e-course account for class materials and homework.
3. **Presentation Skills and Class Expectations**:
– Outlined the class focus on writing, reading, research, and presentations.
– Encouraged students to ask questions and utilize office hours for assistance.
4. **Expository Essays and Plagiarism**:
– Defined and differentiated types of essays.
– Explained the expository essay structure and the exclusion of personal opinion.
– Discussed first, second, and third-person language.
– Emphasized the importance of paraphrasing to avoid plagiarism.
5. **US Constitution and Amendments**:
– Introduced the concept of amendments and their role in outlining citizen rights.
– Analyzed the First Amendment, discussing freedoms of speech, religion, press, assembly, and petition.
– Debated the interpretation and modern implications of the Second Amendment.
6. **Citations and References**:
– Explained the purpose of citations and references.
– Demonstrated how to properly use in-text citations and compile a reference list.
#### Actionable Items:
– **E-Course Account Setup**:
– New students (including Sana) must set up their e-course accounts and email the instructor.
– **Syllabus and Office Hours**:
– Syllabus to be discussed in the next class.
– Office hours are available for additional support (rooms 420 and 215).
#### Homework:
– **Reading Assignment**:
– Students are to read the first ten amendments of the US Bill of Rights.
– **Writing Assignment**:
– Write a short paragraph about the importance of one chosen amendment.
– Include an in-text citation and a corresponding reference.
– **Due Date**: Next Monday.
This session laid the groundwork for understanding the US Constitution and the critical skills necessary for academic writing. Students will deepen their knowledge through practical assignments and continued discussions on constitutional law and essay writing.