Students Partnering for Undergraduate Rhetoric Success (SPURS) began in 2005 as a joint venture between UT-Austin’s Department of Rhetoric and Writing (DRW) and Division of Diversity and Community Engagement. The program pairs lower-division writing classes at UT with 11th grade AP English Language and Composition classes in Texas high schools. Participating AP teachers complete a summer workshop similar to the orientation required of all DRW instructors, and then their AP classes mirror partnering UT classes throughout two core units: rhetorical analysis and researched argument.
Each AP class is introduced to rhetorical theory, practices various forms of rhetorical analysis, and eventually writes extended rhetorical analysis and researched argument essays. All the while, AP students communicate with UT student partners via online discussions forums and UT campus visits. After completing initial drafts of their rhetorical analysis and researched argument essays, AP students conduct peer reviews with their UT partners, receive instruction in advanced revising techniques, and eventually submit final drafts of their essays to the UT instructor for assessment and additional feedback.
For questions about the program, e-mail Dr. Kenya Walker, Executive Director of Pre-College Academic Readiness Programs, Division of Diversity and Community Engagement, The University of Texas at Austin.