This course is an introduction to the skills and conventions of academic reading and writing. It centers on the close reading of sources, constructing compelling arguments, and marshaling evidence and secondary sources. Students will become intimately acquainted with every stage of the writing process – from pre-writing exercises, through revisions and rough drafts, to crafting a polished final essay. This course will offer students a “writing toolbox” of transferable skills which will aid them in their future college classes in the humanities and social sciences but also in their chosen careers. This course may not be audited. This course is offered only for students enrolled in GGU Degrees+ programs, in partnership with Outlier.org.