Is Taking the Plunge Worth It

This article will provide enough information for the interested reader to experiment with a similar restructuring. Beginning with a synopsis of the appropriate aspects of writing-across-the-curriculum theory,' we report our experience in restructuring a traditionally formatted course (midterm, final exam, term paper) that had produced mediocre student papers, reflecting fuzzy student thinking. For those who have shared the depressing reality of struggling through countless rambling papers with topics but no theses, take heart: the resulting improvement in student writing, thinking, and arguing skills is well worth the modest effort.