ENG 101 is based on the premise that critical thinking generates clear writing. In this course, the student learns to read critically, a skill that involves distinguishing central ideas from supporting material and identifying an author's purpose, assumptions, attitudes, and biases. Additionally, the student in ENG 101 learns a writing process that involves generating ideas, drafting, composing, revising, and editing. The student also learns to locate, use, and accurately reference various sources of information.

English Composition I emphasizes the systematic study of writing effective expository prose and argumentation, stressing development and support of a clear thesis. The focus of the course is to lay the foundation for future academic writing requirements, including the ability to analyze, synthesize, evaluate, summarize, paraphrase, and cite textual sources from required course readings.