Unit outline_

ENGL3707: Text, Action and Ideology

Semester 2, 2026 [Normal day] - Camperdown/Darlington, Sydney

This unit of study explores text-production as a social and ideological act, with particular reference to English-speaking contexts. We will ask how competing social and political interests shape specific textual practices, and consider the ideological influences impinging on theoretical discourse about language and textuality.

Unit details and rules

Academic unit English and Writing
Credit points 6
Prerequisites
? 
12 credit points at 2000 level in English or 24 credit points in Writing Studies
Corequisites
? 
None
Prohibitions
? 
None
Assumed knowledge
? 

None

Available to study abroad and exchange students

Yes

Teaching staff

Coordinator Nick Riemer, nick.riemer@sydney.edu.au
The census date for this unit availability is 31 August 2026
Type Description Weight Due Length Use of AI
Written work Take-home essay
Long Answer / Essay
60% Formal exam period
Due date: 18 Nov 2026 at 23:59
3500wds AI allowed
Outcomes assessed: LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4
Written work Essay
Long Answer / Essay
40% Week 07
Due date: 18 Sep 2026 at 23:59

Closing date: 02 Oct 2026
2500wds AI allowed
Outcomes assessed: LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4

Assessment summary

  • Essay 1. You will be asked to write an essay relating to topics and texts discussed in the first half of the course, informed by secondary reading as listed in the course bibliography, and demonstrating careful, analytical and imaginative thought about the question. More details on the course webpage.
  • Essay 2. You will be asked to write two essay-length answers as a take-home examinationrelating to topics and texts discussed in the second half of the course, informed by the secondary reading you will have done throughout the semesteras listed in the course bibliography, and demonstrating careful, analytical and imaginative thought about the question. More details on the course webpage.

Assessment criteria

This Guide indicates broadly the qualitative judgments implied by the various grades which may be awarded. A more precise evaluation of the strengths and weaknesses of individual essays will be provided in markers comments. These comments will take account of the different standards likely to be achieved by Junior and Senior students and, among Senior students, by second and third year students.

85%+ (High Distinction)

  • The work demonstrates a deep and intelligent understanding of, and individual engagement with material;
  • presents a very close analysis of focal texts or issues;
  • addresses a specific issue and develops an independent critical or theoretical argument successfully;
  • indicates awareness of complexities and qualifications in argumentation;
  • demonstrates careful thought about the critical, historical and/or theoretical context of the texts or issues;
  • provides evidence of wide-ranging reading;
  • is properly referenced and well-presented.

The writing is characterized by creativity, clarity, and independent insight. A High Distinction is distinguished from a Distinction by the work’s demonstration of awareness of subtleties, nuances, qualifications and a possible other case. Work which is awarded a mark of over 90% in Senior level units of study will often contain some publishable or potentially publishable elements.

75-84% (Distinction)

  • The work demonstrates an intelligent understanding of, and individual engagement with material;
  • analyzes focal texts or issues appositely;
  • addresses an issue and presents a well-argued, coherent case;
  • demonstrates careful thought about the critical, historical and/or theoretical context of the texts or issues;
  • provides evidence of reading beyond what is strictly required for the task;
  • is properly referenced and well presented.

The writing is characterized by individuality, clarity, and independent insight. A Distinction is distinguished from a High Credit chiefly by the quality of theoretical understanding and the range of intellectual enquiry it demonstrates.

70-74% (High Credit)

  • The work provides evidence of independent reading and thinking about focal texts or issues and their contexts;
  • shows some clear understanding of relevant critical and theoretical considerations and of the conceptual issues raised by a unit of study;
  • uses close critical analysis;
  • avoids unnecessary summary;
  • indicates an intelligent attempt at a critical or theoretical argument;
  • is clearly and effectively written;
  • is well-referenced.

A High Credit is distinguished from a Low Credit chiefly by the extent of independent discussion of focal texts or issues, and by some obvious attempt to interpret the outcome of close analysis.

65-69% (Low Credit)

  • The work shows some understanding of relevant critical and theoretical considerations and of the conceptual issues raised by a unit of study;
  • demonstrates some independent reading and thinking about focal texts or issues and their contexts;
  • uses close critical analysis;
  • avoids unnecessary summary;
  • attempts a critical or theoretical argument;
  • is clearly and effectively written;
  • is adequately referenced.

A Low Credit is distinguished from a High Pass by the extent of independent discussion of focal texts or issues, the clarity of the writing and the extent to which it attempts a more general critical and/or theoretical argument.

58-64% (High Pass)

  • The work gives some evidence of ability to attempt an independent argument and to structure material coherently;
  • demonstrates a genuine attempt at independent reading and thinking about focal texts or issues though the essay may contain some oversimplification or superficiality;
  • generally avoids unnecessary summary, paraphrase or unsubstantiated assertion;
  • may sometimes present quotation for illustrative purposes merely, but does also present the outcome of some critical analysis;
  • is adequately expressed;
  • is adequately referenced.

50-57% (Pass)

  • The work provides clear evidence of having read and thought about focal texts or issues;
  • attempts a coherent argument though there may be ellipses in argumentation;
  • uses some close critical analysis;
  • may paraphrase fairly extensively;
  • tends to use quotation for illustrative purposes only;
  • may tend towards generality in answering a question;
  • may present simplistic comment or unsubstantiated assertions;
  • is adequately expressed though there may be some weaknesses in this area;
  • may contain some referencing errors.

Below 50% (Fail)

Work may fail for any of the following reasons:

  • no evidence of having read the prescribed material closely;
  • sloppy, inconsistent presentation;
  • preponderance of paraphrase, mere plot summary or listing of superficial characteristics;
  • excessive use of quotation for illustrative purposes only, without any attempt at analysis;
  • excessive level of generality in answering a question;
  • inappropriate or obscure expression;
  • incoherent general structure;
  • inadequate referencing;
  • late submission of work without extension.

For more information see guide to grades.

Use of generative artificial intelligence (AI)

You can use generative AI tools for open assessments. Restrictions on AI use apply to secure, supervised assessments used to confirm if students have met specific learning outcomes.

Refer to the assessment table above to see if AI is allowed, for assessments in this unit and check Canvas for full instructions on assessment tasks and AI use.

If you use AI, you must always acknowledge it. Misusing AI may lead to a breach of theAcademic Integrity Policy.

Visit theCurrent Students websitefor more information on AI in assessments, includingdetails on how to acknowledge its use.

Late submission

In accordance with University policy, these penalties apply when written work is submitted after 11:59pm on the due date:

  • Deduction of 5% of the maximum mark for each calendar day after the due date.
  • After ten calendar days late, a mark of zero will be awarded.

Academic integrity

The University expects students to act ethically and honestly and will treat all allegations of academic integrity breaches seriously.

Our websiteprovides information on academic integrity and the resources available to all students. This includes advice on how to avoid common breaches of academic integrity. Ensure that you have completed theAcademic Honesty Education Module (AHEM)which is mandatory for all commencing coursework students

Penalties for serious breaches can significantly impact your studies and your career after graduation. It is important that you speak with your unit coordinator if you need help with completing assessments.

Visit theCurrent Students websitefor more information on AI in assessments, includingdetails on how to acknowledge its use.

Simple extensions

If you encounter a problem submitting your work on time, you may be able to apply for an extension of five calendar days through asimple extension.  The application process will be different depending on the type of assessment and extensions cannot be granted for some assessment types like exams.

Special consideration

If exceptional circumstances mean you can’t complete an assessment, you need consideration for a longer period of time, or if you have essential commitments which impact your performance in an assessment, you may be eligible forspecial consideration or special arrangements.

Special consideration applications will not be affected by a simple extension application.

Using AI responsibly

Co-created with students,includes lots of helpful examples of how students use generative AI tools to support their learning. It explains how generative AI works, the different tools available and how to use them responsibly and productively.

Support for students

The Support for Students Policyreflects the University’s commitment to supporting students in their academic journey and making the University safe for students. It is important that you read and understand this policy so that you are familiar with the range of support services available to you and understand how to engage with them.

The University uses email as its primary source of communication with students who need support under the Support for Students Policy. Make sure you check your University email regularly and respond to any communications received from the University.

Learning resources and detailed information about weekly assessment and learning activities can be accessed via Canvas. It is essential that you visit your unit of study Canvas site to ensure you are up to date with all of your tasks.

If you are having difficulties completing your studies, or are feeling unsure about your progress, we are here to help. You can access the support services offered by the University at any time:

Support and Services (including health and wellbeing services, financial support and learning support)
Course planning and administration
Meet with an Academic Adviser

WK Topic Learning activity Learning outcomes
Week 01 Introduction + Ideology 1: Williams. Lecture (1 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3
Introduction + Ideology 1: Williams. Tutorial (1 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3
Week 02 Ideology 2. Marx and Engels. Lecture (1 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3
Ideology 2. Marx and Engels. Tutorial (1 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3
Week 03 Ideology 3. Althusser. Lecture (1 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3
Ideology 3. Althusser. Tutorial (1 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3
Week 04 Ideology 4. Rancière. Lecture (1 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3
Ideology 4. Rancière. Tutorial (1 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3
Week 05 Texts, acts and silencing 1. Mill. Lecture (1 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3
Texts, acts and silencing 1. Mill. Tutorial (1 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3
Week 06 Texts, acts and silencing 2. Marcuse; Bray. Lecture (1 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3
Texts, acts and silencing 2. Marcuse; Bray. Tutorial (1 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3
Week 07 Texts, acts and silencing 3. MacKinnon. Lecture (1 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3
Texts, acts and silencing 3. MacKinnon. Tutorial (1 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3
Week 08 Texts, acts and silencing 4. Butler. Lecture (1 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3
Texts, acts and silencing 4. Butler. Tutorial (1 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3
Week 09 Intellectuals and politics 1. Gramsci; Althusser. Lecture (1 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3
Intellectuals and politics 1. Gramsci; Althusser. Tutorial (1 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3
Week 10 Intellectuals and politics 2. Benda. Lecture (1 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3
Intellectuals and politics 2. Benda. Tutorial (1 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3
Week 11 Intellectuals and politics 3. Nizan. Lecture (1 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3
Intellectuals and politics 3. Nizan. Tutorial (1 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3
Week 12 Intellectuals and politics 4. Chomsky; Foucault and Deleuze. Lecture (1 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3
Intellectuals and politics 4. Chomsky; Foucault and Deleuze. Tutorial (1 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3
Week 13 Intellecuals and politics 5. Bourdieu. Lecture (1 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3
Intellecuals and politics 5. Bourdieu. Tutorial (1 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3

Attendance and class requirements

According to Faculty Board Resolutions, students in the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences are expected to attend 90% of their classes. If you attend less than 50% of classes, regardless of the reasons, you may be referred to the Examiners' Board. The Examiners' Board will decide whether you should pass or fail the unit of study if your attendance falls below this threshold.


For more information on attendance, see https://sydney.edu.au/handbooks/arts/rules/faculty_resolutions_arts.shtml.

Study commitment

Typically, there is a minimum expectation of 1.5-2 hours of student effort per week per credit point for units of study offered over a full semester. For a 6 credit point unit, this equates to roughly 120-150 hours of student effort in total.

Required readings

Compulsory readings will be available online.

A detailed course bibliography will be available on the course webpage, and distributed in the first week.

Weeks 2-3: Ideology

Compulsory reading

Karl Marx, Friedrich Engels. Theses on Feuerbach (1845). Marxist Internet Archive.

Karl Marx, Friedrich Engels. The German Ideology (1845-6). 3 rev. ed. Moscow: Progress, 1976, 29-71.

Louis Althusser. ‘Ideological State Apparatuses. (Notes towards an investigation)’ (1970). In A. Sharma and A. Gupta (eds) The Anthropology of the State: A Reader. Malden: Blackwell, 2006.

Jodi Dean. Crowds and Party. London: Verso, 2016, excerpt from chapter 2.

Weeks 4-7. Texts, acts and silencing

John Stuart Mill, ‘On the liberty of thought and discussion’, chapter 2 of On Liberty (1859). Project Gutenberg.

Herbert Marcuse. ‘Repressive Tolerance’ (1965). In R. Wolff, B. Moore and H. Marcuse, A Critique of Pure Tolerance. Boston: Beacon, 81-123.

Mark Bray. ‘“So Much for the Tolerant Left!” “No Platform” and Free Speech’. Chapter 5 of Antifa: The Anti-Fascist Handbook. Melbourne: Melbourne University Press, 2017.

Catherine MacKinnon. ‘Equality and Speech’. Chapter 3 of Only Words. Cambridge, MA: Harvard, 1993.

Judith Butler. ‘On Linguistic Vulnerability’, and ‘Implicit Censorship and Discursive Agency’, Introduction and chapter 4 of Excitable Speech. A Politics of the Performative. New York: Routledge, 1997.

Weeks 8-11. Intellectuals and politics

Antonio Gramsci ‘Intellectuals’. In David Forgacs (ed.) The Gramsci Reader. Selected Writings, 1916-1935. New York: New York University Press, 301-311.

Antonio Gramsci ‘Notes for an Introduction and an Approach to the Study of Philosophy and the History of Culture. i. Some preliminary reference points’. In David Forgacs (ed.) The Gramsci Reader. Selected Writings, 1916-1935. New York: New York University Press, 324-343.

Louis Althusser. ‘Philosophy as a revolutionary weapon’ (1970). New Left Review I/64 3-11.

Julien Benda, ‘The Clerks –The Great Betrayal’. Chapter 3 of The Betrayal of the Intellectuals (R. Aldington, tr.). Boston: Beacon, 1955.

Paul Nizan. ‘The Philosophers’ Stance’. Chapter 4 of The Watchdogs. Philosophers of the Established Order (P. Fittingoff, tr.) (1932). New York: Monthly Review.

Noam Chomsky. ‘The Responsibility of Intellectuals’ (1966). In J. Peck (ed.), The Chomsky Reader. New York: Pantheon.

Michel Foucault and Gilles Deleuze. ‘Intellectuals and Power’ (1972). In Michel Foucault, Language, Counter-Memory, Practice (D. Bouchard, tr.). Ithaca: Cornell, 1977.

Weeks 12-13. Ideology of the university

Pierre Bourdieu. Critique of Scholastic Reason. Chapter 1 of Pascalian Meditations (R. Nice, tr.). Stanford, 2000.

Other texts to be confirmed, including possibly the following:

Colin Barker and Laurence Cox. ‘“What have the Romans ever done for us?” Academic and activist forms of movement theorizing’. Helsinki: Into, 2001.

Chris Lorenz. ‘If You’re So Smart, Why Are You under Surveillance? Universities, Neoliberalism, and New Public Management.’ Critical Inquiry 38 (2012): 599-629.

Learning outcomes are what students know, understand and are able to do on completion of a unit of study. They are aligned with the University's graduate qualities and are assessed as part of the curriculum.

At the completion of this unit, you should be able to:

  • LO1. appreciate ideological and political aspects of textuality and text-production
  • LO2. adopt a critical stance towards standard views of the relation between textuality and political action
  • LO3. appreciate some of the important stages of the history of ideas about the relations between ideology, text and action
  • LO4. display a high level of competence in making written arguments

Graduate qualities

The graduate qualities are the qualities and skills that all graduates must demonstrate on successful completion of an award course. As a future Sydney graduate, the set of qualities have been designed to equip you for the contemporary world.

GQ1 Depth of disciplinary expertise

Deep disciplinary expertise is the ability to integrate and rigorously apply knowledge, understanding and skills of a recognised discipline defined by scholarly activity, as well as familiarity with evolving practice of the discipline.

GQ2 Critical thinking and problem solving

Critical thinking and problem solving are the questioning of ideas, evidence and assumptions in order to propose and evaluate hypotheses or alternative arguments before formulating a conclusion or a solution to an identified problem.

GQ3 Oral and written communication

Effective communication, in both oral and written form, is the clear exchange of meaning in a manner that is appropriate to audience and context.

GQ4 Information and digital literacy

Information and digital literacy is the ability to locate, interpret, evaluate, manage, adapt, integrate, create and convey information using appropriate resources, tools and strategies.

GQ5 Inventiveness

Generating novel ideas and solutions.

GQ6 Cultural competence

Cultural Competence is the ability to actively, ethically, respectfully, and successfully engage across and between cultures. In the Australian context, this includes and celebrates Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, knowledge systems, and a mature understanding of contemporary issues.

GQ7 Interdisciplinary effectiveness

Interdisciplinary effectiveness is the integration and synthesis of multiple viewpoints and practices, working effectively across disciplinary boundaries.

GQ8 Integrated professional, ethical, and personal identity

An integrated professional, ethical and personal identity is understanding the interaction between one’s personal and professional selves in an ethical context.

GQ9 Influence

Engaging others in a process, idea or vision.

Outcome map

Learning outcomes Graduate qualities
GQ1 GQ2 GQ3 GQ4 GQ5 GQ6 GQ7 GQ8 GQ9

This section outlines changes made to this unit following staff and student reviews.

Students' impressions of the course, as expressed both during and after the semester, allow us to fine-tune various aspects of teaching and assessment. The current shape of the course is the result of such feedback. Please don't hesitate to raise any concerns or ideas you have with the seminar-leader during the semester itself. Doing so will let us act on feedback while the course is still running, rather than at the end when it is too late.

Disclaimer

Important: the regularly reviews units of study and reserves the right to change the units of study available annually. To stay up to date on available study options, including unit of study details and availability, refer to the relevant handbook.

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