This course examines written English used in the electronic and ordinary media and in media-dependent programs and publications. We will cull samples from the Internet, cable TV programs, magazine and newspaper ads, as well as from on-line English learning programs. Students will evaluate and edit both the content and the language of the samples and compare them with more formal English used elsewhere. One of the purposes of this course is to identify trends or, rather, fads in the English used in the media and to assess how well such practical use of language fulfills its purposes and if there are other concerns, such as moral issues, involved. Assignments include rewriting and editing of selected samples and producing samples for specific purposes. There will be plenty of exercises, a presentation, a final, but no mid-term. I will supply the teaching materials in the form of handouts. All majors are welcome, provided that you contribute to our assignments and discussions.