02 December 2009

This Semester of English 111

After the time of the pre-entrance exam, I was a little excited when the counselor reviewed the results of the exam and stated I did not have to take a pre-requisite class for English, and I could start out with English 111. Then, I remembered how much I hated writing and dreaded, ever so loved by teachers, research papers. However, I figured I need to take this class to graduate, so I might as well get it out of the way. So, on the first day of class in came Mr. Gasparo. To my surprise he was not what I was expecting at all; I thought the class would have been taught by this little old lady that smelled of formaldehyde and was as mean as the day is long. Paul told us not to worry, that this class would be easy and although I was reluctant to believe that statement I gave his class a fair shot. After going through his course, I agree that there are some weaknesses but overall enjoyed his class and would recommend him as a teacher to other students.

With all good instructors or course there are always ways to improve. One thing I did not like this year was the fact we had to type in a blog. I do appreciate the concept that Paul is trying to broaden our horizons, but this is an English class and I do not want to put any of my works on the internet. The next issue that I had with this class is that when Paul would cancel class, it seemed the amount of homework he would issue was endless, and basically I considered it busy work. Lastly, the only other gripe I had about this class was kind of out of Mr.Gasparo’s control: Blackbored. That is one of the worst computer programs that this college uses. All the time Paul would ask you to print something off of Blackbored and the file would come back corrupt. I know that program is supposed to help students, but all it really did for me this year was give me one big headache.

Although the gripe list for Paul’s class is short, the positive side of his class has a long list. For example, I appreciated the fact that Mr. Gasparo pushed us to our limits and was always trying to get us to think outside the box. Even when I did not agree with him, he would present an argument in a fashion that would make me respect the other side’s viewpoint. Next, the assignments that were given out were always in-depth and by the time they were due, it was easy to complete since he had prepared us fully in the weeks before by showing us examples and outlining in our textbooks the sections it covered. Another good reason to take this class is that if you work with Paul he will work with you. That is usually not the case with some college instructors. All he asked is that you kept him informed, and if you did your work you would survive his class. Also, the extra credit that was assigned in his class is a good aspect and a reason to take his class. I am not a strong English student, so his offering extra credit was extra beneficial for me and my grade. Lastly, the style in which Mr. Gasparo teaches is somewhat unique. He is always coming up with ways to make this subject less dry and more appealing to the individual who despises English (such as myself).

All in all this is an English class that I would recommend for students that are looking for a good instructor. Even if there are some small issues that could change the course for the better, Mr. Gasparo takes the material outlines and makes it his own. His demands, style, and method of teaching are unique; therefore, helping students better understand and appreciate a subject that is feared by most. I strongly recommend this class and instructor for student such as myself that do not like English. Mr. Gasparo will end up changing your mind, I promise.

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boylanblog.blogspot.com/2009_02_01_archive.htm