Department of English Composition, Literature & Professional Writing - Rockville Campus
Department of English Composition, Literature & Professional Writing - Rockville Campus Montgomery College
How do I know which English classes I need to take?
Which English class should I take first?
Beyond my English Foundation course, what other English courses can I take?
Can I be exempt from taking some English courses?
Can I get an override if the class is full?
Why must I complete developmental courses before taking college-level composition courses?
I want to improve my vocabulary or grammar skills; which course should I take?
What is the difference between En 101 and En 101A?
I want to transfer to four-year college. What English courses are transferable?
English is not my best subject. Where can I find help?
What should I do if I have a concern with my instructor and/or the coursework?
If I an unhappy about my final course grade, what can I do?

Still have questions? Contact the English department.

How do I know which English classes I need to take?

English courses are exciting, especially if you have a passion for reading and/or writing. However, you should work with a counselor to determine what is required for your particular educational goals. For instance, if your goal is to earn an Associate’s Degree, you will most likely need 3 credits for your English Foundation (EN 102 or 109). In reviewing your placement information, your counselor will be able to explain to you which prerequisite courses you will need to successfully complete before enrolling in EN 102 or 109.

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Which English class should I take first?

The answer to this question depends upon the placement information you have when you are ready to register for classes at Montgomery College. In the absence of college transcripts or college placement scores such as the SAT’s, ACT’s or AP Examination, students may take one of Montgomery College’s placement tests. Speak with a counselor to determine which placement information you may take and which English course is appropriate for your particular situation.

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Beyond my English Foundation course, what other English courses can I take?

The Department of English Composition, Literature and Professional Writing offers a variety of fascinating college-level English courses in literature, creative writing and journalism. Many of these courses are transferable and fulfill the Humanities Distribution credits required for a variety of associate’s degrees. To find a course that interests you, review the course description in the online college catalog. You can also speak with a counselor or stop by the English Department office for more information.

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Can I be exempt from taking some English courses?

In some instances, yes, it is possible to be exempt from taking some English courses. To find out if you are eligible for Advanced Standing based on your academic records, click here.

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Can I get an override if the class is full?

Unfortunately, the answer is no. Please consult the term’s schedule for sections with available seats.

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Why must I complete developmental courses before taking college-level composition courses?

No, students do not earn credit for developmental writing courses. However, these preparatory courses are often necessary for college success. Students placed in developmental English courses often times have had negative experiences in English courses and have avoided writing. Others may have forgotten necessary writing proficiencies. While others could be strong writers who tested poorly in grammar and sentence skills on the placement test. For these students, taking EN 001 and/or EN 002 is an opportunity to gain the necessary skills for successful college-level writing.

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I want to improve my vocabulary or grammar skills; which course should I take?

The English Department offers two particular courses that develop students' vocabulary and grammar. EN 105 (Principles of English Grammar) and EN 107 (College Vocabulary Development) . For additional information, click here.

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What is the difference between En 101 and En 101A?

EN101A teaches students the same skills as EN 101 but provides additional time for grammar and mechanics review. Consequently, En 101 is 3 student contact hours per week; while EN 101A is 5 student contact hours per week. To successfully complete either course, students must submit a passing final portfolio.

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I want to transfer to four-year college. What English courses are transferable?

Most of our college-level English courses are transferable. However, it is best to consult your program of study AND speak with a counselor to determine which courses are transferable.

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English is not my best subject. Where can I find help?

Your instructor is the best resource for course assistance. However, Montgomery College’s Writing and Reading Center in HU 002 provides one-on-one tutoring services in writing and reading. There, the writing tutors will discuss your work, giving you feedback about your paper’s strengths and weaknesses. With your tutor, you can address different aspects of your writing, such as organization, development, thesis, wording, and mechanics. For additional information, click here.

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What should I do if I have a concern with my instructor and/or the coursework?

First, contact your instructor during his or her office hours or via email and politely express your concerns. In most instances, your instructor will be able to answer your questions satisfactorily and assuage your fears. If after speaking with your instructor you still have concerns, contact the department chair.

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If I an unhappy about my final course grade, what can I do?

Like any other concern you may have about your course, speaking with your instructor is your best recourse. If after speaking with your instructor you still have concerns about your final grade, you can submit an official grade appeal within four weeks of the subsequent semester. For details on completing an official English Department grade appeal, click here.