Introduction to Computer Science

CSC126

Writing Assignment #1

NAME: __________________

**DUE THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 26**

General Textbook Use

What is, or will likely be, your major?

What other math and/or science classes are you currently taking?

In your math and/or science classes, how often do you typically refer to the textbook?

__Never __Occasionally __Often __Always

How much experience do you have reading math and/or science textbooks?

__None __Some __A lot

Prior to this course, had you had exposure to college-level math and/or science textbooks?

__Yes __No

How comfortable do you feel using math and/or science textbooks?

__Uncomfortable __Somewhat comfortable __Very comfortable

Write a couple sentences explaining the reason you feel comfortable or uncomfortable using such textbooks?

Textbook Reading Strategies

There are many different strategies for reading textbooks. How do you read your textbook each week? Simply take a moment, think about what you did as you read the book, and summarize that process. There are no wrong answers, and your responses will not be shared. Do not write more than one page. Write at least one paragraph. Write in complete sentences. Here is the assignment:

1) Read the first section of chapter four, pp. 167-174 or 175-184.

2) Follow your ordinary study methods.

3) Write one or two paragraphs describing your reading/studying process step-by-step, including the things you do to prepare that may seem trivial or not directly related--such as sharpening every pencil you own or cleaning your room--as long as they are part of your learning process.

As a guide to writing your description, you might want to keep in mind some of these possible questions, if they are relevant:

a) How do you usually prepare to study specific chapters of the textbook?

b) What did you do as a reader to fully understand the section?

c) What do you think is the purpose of this section?

d) Why is it necessary to understand this section?

e) Where does this passage fall in the chapter?

f) Where does it fall in the book as a whole?

g) What prior knowledge does it expect of you?

h) Where can you find the information you need to master this section?

i) How do any examples or exercises test your comprehension of the material?

j) Do you find examples or exercises helpful to your comprehension of this section?

Professor Howard

jhoward@gc.cuny.edu

Room 1N-214

Office Hours: T 1:15-2:15

(or Tuesday and Thursday

before class by appointment)