City College students can choose to read poetry, analyze literature and write a research paper in English 111 class. Or, they can learn how to form solid arguments, think logically and see through bad arguments in Philosophy 111.

Even though the flow chart of English Composition indicates that English 111 and Philosophy 111 are equivalent, most students don’t know about it. Many students tried to crash English classes this fall when at the same time, some of the philosophy classes had seats open.

Sara Philkill, Neil Onstott, Abby Adolphs, Brittny Zeitsoff, all English 111 students, didn’t know that the two classes are equivalent for transferring.

“I’d rather take the philosophy class,” Sara Philkill said. “I’ve always wanted to take a philosophy class but couldn’t fit it into my schedule. If I’d know about this option I would’ve chosen it.”

Philosophy professor Jim Chesher said the class focuses on basic forming of effective arguments and logical reasoning. Students write papers in which they present arguments for two sides of an issue they chose themselves.

“It’s a challenging course, but in the end, most students do well,” Chesher said.

“The writing focuses on argumentation, not grammar.” However, a proper use of grammar is important in order to create convincing arguments, Chesher added.

Student Brittny Zeitsoff said she would have taken the philosophy class instead, if she had known about it. She said, “I think it’s a perfect idea.”

Chesher also said that the best thing philosophy would teach students is “how to ask the right question.”

Chesher said Philosophy 111 teaches students skills they will use in most other fields, because as a student, one has to be able to form strong argument and to think logically.

Now, logical thinking is not only taught in philosophy classes, but is an important focus in English 111 as well.

“Both classes involve writing and critical thinking,” said English 111 professor Dr. James Stevens.

Other similarities are that they’re both verbal classes where students focus on learning how to express themselves.

Dr. Stevens said he makes his students write a paper that will “focus on what makes them thinkers,” something that immediately sounds well connected to philosophy.

To the differences, English 111 is a class where literature constantly is an important element, whereas in Philosophy there is no such thing as analyzing poetry and short stories. In the English class, students are required to write at least one research paper, learn how to use survey techniques, and information from journals and books.

City College student Jeremy Reineck is currently enrolled in Philosophy 111 and because he is majoring in English, he has already taken English 111. He said he thinks the two classes are very different and not close to being equal.

“I think you should take both,” he said.

Whatever preference students have, it is good to know that there is a choice. Philosophy won’t suit everyone, just as English won’t either.

Sage Kemmerley said she likes both and would take any of them.

“And I like that they’re giving students another option,” Kemmerley said.