3.0

Marco Giordano

English - Santa Rosa Junior College

3.0
Quality
3.7
Difficulty
54%
Would Retake
149
Reviews
3.0
Quality
3.7
Difficulty
3.1
Helpful
2.9
Clarity

54%

Would Retake

149

Reviews

Rating Distribution
Official

5

51

4

19

3

13

2

24

1

42

What Students Say

the single worst teacher i've ever encountered

ENG5 - 1.0 rating

Amazing Professor, Highly intelligent, above and beyond average human being- but teaching at a community college to freshmen and sophomores

9121 - 2.0 rating
Class Info

Online Classes

100%

Attendance Mandatory

68%

Textbook Required

60%

Grade Predictor

Your expected effort level

LowHigh

Predicted Grade

A-

95% confidence
Based on 42 grades
Most common grades:
A (27)
Drop/Withdrawal (8)
A+ (7)
Grade Distribution
A(34)B(5)C(2)D(8)F(0)A-/B+(1)
Based on 55 reported grades
A: 27
Drop/Withdrawal: 8
A+: 7
B: 5
Common Tags
Get ready to read (24)
Respected (13)
Tough grader (13)
Amazing lectures (11)
Lecture heavy (9)
Gives good feedback (7)
LECTURE HEAVY (7)
Clear grading criteria (7)
Rating Trend

Stable

+0.08 avg change
Jan
Feb
Apr
May
Nov
Dec
Last 6 months
Ratings by Course

ENGL27

5.0

(1)

ENGLISH

5.0

(2)

WRITINGLAB

5.0

(1)

CREATIVEWRITING

5.0

(1)

ENGCREA

5.0

(1)
+28 more courses
Difficulty by Course

CREATIVEWRITIN

5.0

ENGLISH5

5.0

ENGAENG

5.0

ONEAOPEN

5.0

EN1A

4.7

Reviews (149)
5.0
2.0
ENGL27
Jan 19, 2005

No Comments

5.0
2.0
ENGLISH
Jan 26, 2005

Do you like learning? REALLY like being shown new and wonderous ways of seeing the world? I wouldnt call him a teacher, nor is his world a classroom. These words have been denoted evil through years of American schooling. He's a thinker, and he can help you to become a thinker.

1.0
1.0
CREATIVEWRIT
Feb 2, 2005

i heard great things about Marco but I found that he talked way over everyone's head and did not bother to clarify. I felt directly uncared for by him. I did however get an "A" for turning in 1 assignment. =-)

5.0
3.0
WRITINGLAB
Mar 11, 2005

Marco is brilliant; listen to him and you'll eventually learn a lot. As an aspiring fiction and poetry writer, I found no teacher more inspiring, more intelligent, more thought-provoking. He favors his better writers sometimes but i think it's more a case of him giving energy to those want to learn.

5.0
5.0
ENGLISH1B
May 13, 2005

Takes college to a whole knew level. Very smart.

5.0
2.0
ENGLISH1A
Aug 28, 2005

I haven't even had half a semester with this guy, But our class discusions are awesome and he is very percise in his guidence!

5.0
3.0
ENGLISH1A
Aug 30, 2005

Surprising he hasn't been fired for how unorthodox his teaching style is. Friggin' awesomely unique.

5.0
4.0
ENG27
Aug 30, 2005

Awesome prof. goes off on random but related tangents... rebels against the english department's stupidity.

3.0
4.0
ENGLISH1A
Aug 30, 2005

No Comments

5.0
2.0
CREATIVEWRITING
Aug 30, 2005

Great instructor. Very passionate, constructively critical, imaginative, engaging, and inspirational. He really helped me with my writing but especially with my "reading". I will take another of his classes.

1.0
1.0
ENGLISH1B
Sep 1, 2005

There are a few things he says that are kind of interesting, but for the most part his lectures went way over my head. I did manage to get an A in his class though...but I wouldn't take his class again.

5.0
3.0
ENGLISH
Sep 1, 2005

No Comments

4.0
3.0
ENGLISH118
Sep 6, 2005

Get ready to read LOTS of Shakespeare. It's his specialty.

4.0
5.0
CREATIVEWRITIN
Sep 13, 2005

I adored Marco--his class IS hard..he is merciless when he reviews people's work...he will x out half of a person's writing...but he knows what he is doing. I wrote one of my best things ever in his class. He is awesome...if you like writing and are willing to get brutalized a little, definately take his class!!!

5.0
3.0
ENGLISH1A
Oct 11, 2005

Great teacher. Truly makes you think about life and is very motivational. I would take him again.

1.0
5.0
ENGLISH5
Oct 28, 2005

Scary, scary human being. Rants a lot. Makes you buy 14 books when you only read 2 in class. Rest are to "open your mind." Condescending. Ironically hates public schools. Calls himself "professor" when JC doesn't award professorships. MAJOR inferiority complex. Incomprehensible in his inflated self-worth. Giordano honestly believes that HE IS GOD.

1.0
5.0
ENGLISH1A
Nov 28, 2005

This man is probably the most unconprehensive teacher I have ever had. He very rarely assigns homework, but expects you to read everyone of the class's 11 books. He doesn't assign papers, but expects you to write a number of papers and turn them in at some point during the class. His lectures are impossible to follow. Horrible "professor".

1.0
5.0
ENGLISH1A
Grade: Drop/Withdrawal
Nov 28, 2005

Don't even bother. You've already failed.

1.0
5.0
ENG1A
Nov 30, 2005

Horrible, miserable class from hell.

5.0
3.0
ENG1A
Dec 4, 2005

Any individual who fails a course taught by him should turn their attention inward when in search of the reason why. He is a dedicated educator who is wholly invested in teaching students to effectually communicate through their writing. If you believe learning requires effort, you are right. Expect to work for your grade(and feel good about it).

1.0
5.0
ENGLISH5
Jan 2, 2006

Calls himself "professor," and corrects you if you don't. Funny, because the JC doesn't award professorships. Basically he expects you to read his mind cus he just rambles in class and NEVER assigns anything. Then all of a sudden, at the end of the class, you were supposed to have read 15 books and written 10 papers. Does this make sense to anyone?

1.0
2.0
ENG1B
Jan 4, 2006

I have been attending college for years and this was the worst class I ever taken. Giordano spent more time voicing his polictical views and telling young people that his best papers were written while stoned. He stated that drugs should be legal. Very poor representation of the SRJC. If you must, like me, go ahead and suffer through!

1.0
1.0
ENG1B
Jan 6, 2006

This was the worst and the most boring class I have ever attended and I have attended many classes. Giordano spends the entire class time preaching about his polictical and religious beliefs which are not all of ours. He is telling young students that drugs are okay and that he wrote his best papers while stoned. Lousy role model!

4.0
4.0
ENG5
Jan 18, 2006

Even though his class was based on a lot of reading and rambling I thought his faith in students was excellent. He got me thinking more then any other class I have taken and that is what you need in order to succeed in a critical thinking class.

1.0
3.0
ENG1A
Mar 27, 2006

This was the worst class ever. Very unhelpful teacher. Felt that i he was degrading and mocking towards students. Rather hear himself talk then teach the class.

1.0
1.0
ENG1B
May 22, 2006

What a nightmare. This class is basically about him boosting his own ego. The only interesting thing I found in that class is that he has a lazy eye. It was just a semester of listening to him ramble. I wrote a crap paper at the end and I somehow got an A.

2.0
5.0
ENG1A
Jun 28, 2006

If you want to know if he is a good "professor", then he will certainly let you know. I'm pretty sure i spent more time looking at the clock more than I spent trying to listen his babbling about politics...and well, himself. Very pretentious.

1.0
5.0
ENGL1B
Oct 27, 2006

He believes he is better than you in every possible way, and will tell you repeatedly. The only people who give him good reviews are so weak minded they believe his crap and think they truly are inferior beings. Second-rate, washed up, no good, wannabe Nietzsche who destroys dreams because his own life is wasted. Wholly unqualified to be a teacher.

1.0
5.0
EN1A
Nov 29, 2006

not one of the best teachers. i felt he was very unclear about whatever he was talking about, i really didnt know half the time...which is why i ended up dropping his class

5.0
3.0
ENG1A
Dec 6, 2006

here is the thing, he knows his stuff very well.He is focused on retoric, & you need to care. If you don't care and want paper promts go eleswhere,but if you are truely interested in becoming a better writer, you need only be self-motivated. He will not hold your hand. But if you want him to,he will help teach u how to argue any subject and well.

1.0
5.0
ENGAENG
Mar 20, 2007

He is the worst teacher that I have had thus far while at the JC. He likes to hear himself talk. The class seams to drag on and not go anywhere. DO NOT take his class you will regret it. He makes you buy tons of books never uses them and then the bookstore wont buy them back because they don't have a use for them. Horrible teacher awful man!!!

5.0
4.0
ENG1A
Apr 17, 2007

Perhaps the most knowledgeable instructor I have ever known. If you ask a question, be prepared to get an answer.

4.0
4.0
ENG5
Apr 29, 2007

the thing is, i would agree with most everyone's comments, positive and negative. i think that he is a very intelligent individual, who is also extremely self centered and egotistical. the books you read are good, and the class is sometimes good, but often he talks non stop for three hours. one of the best and one of the worst, hope that helps

5.0
4.0
ENG5
May 16, 2007

this guy teaches students and treats them with respect the way all teachers should. i'll admit his classes are not for the lazy. i've learned so much even though it's been hard it was totally worth it! he is very intelligent and critical of the things we all should be aware of. i would take his class again.

3.0
2.0
ENG1A
Jun 26, 2007

if you just show interest and turn in papers... very easy class..

1.0
4.0
ENGL4A
Oct 22, 2007

No Comments

1.0
1.0
ENG4A
Nov 30, 2007

The single most boring instructor out of my entire college experience. He did not help my creative writing ability in the LEAST, so I began to read a novel in his class. He dropped me before I could drop myself, after which he told me that the class was "misty-eyed" from his readings, and something was wrong with me for not finding interest.

3.0
3.0
ENGL1A
Dec 5, 2007

well i find his class to be absolutely boring. He has you read alot of books and write alot of essays with elaborate promts. he didnt fully assign any assignment, you just had to go with it. (some times he wouldnt collect them and others when he did he lost them!)(Keep a copy!)would recommend your wasting your time

2.0
3.0
ENG5
Apr 15, 2008

Run fast and far. Unless you like unclear, cryptic information. If you like for a teacher to make something as vague as he possibly can, take him. 5 weeks left and most of us still don't know what's going on. And I got an A in Eng 1A!

4.0
5.0
ONEAOPEN
May 19, 2008

if you are the student who just wants to pass easily take someone else. if you want to grow take him. if your mind isn't blown within the first two weeks you aren't getting it.

1.0
5.0
ENG5
May 27, 2008

You buy 13 books and read 5. He is a pompous jerk who thinks he is God, although I'm pretty sure he could tell you why you're an idiot for believing in God. Despite writing 40 pages for this class, I still failed because two (out of 7 or 8) of my papers were "unsatisfactory" and I apparently missed too much class, but he hardly ever took role.

4.0
4.0
ENG5
May 28, 2008

I found him to be an excellent teacher. He can be difficult, but it was a worthwhile mind expanding educational experience. I would highly recommend him. He did allow rewrites on almost every paper, but don't think that means you can slack off... if you do you'll regret it in his class.

1.0
4.0
ENG5
Jul 1, 2008

Worst instructor I've ever encountered. Listened to one 3 hour lecture and promptly dropped from course. I sent him an email after with notes from the lecture questioning his methods for reaching conclusions in his critical thinking course, received one attacking me using patronizing prose and shear stupidity. Spring SEM. 2008.

4.0
3.0
ENG1A
Jul 7, 2008

An inspirational teacher. He taught me to become more critical about current social issues. He is a hardcore liberal. He puts special emphasis on the degredation of the U.S. Do not miss any classes! Do not miss any reading! He grades only on essays. You can literally write anything you want in your essays as long as it has a logical argument.

1.0
3.0
ENG1A
Jul 11, 2008

Worst teacher I have ever had...I dropped the class and took the W. He never assigned any assignments to the 20 books we were required to have & read even though he said if we didnt turn anything in we would fail his course. If you are in his class drop it when you can if you dont like it...it won't get any better throughout the semester.

4.0
4.0
ENGL4792
Jul 12, 2008

the class is yours

1.0
5.0
ENG1B
Jul 12, 2008

Worst teacher I've had. Isn't interested in helping people learn how to write, but instead berates you for being an idiot the second you step foot into the class. I don't know about other people, but I don't respond well to hearing , before I've turned in a single assignment "You should all know now that none of you know how to write"

2.0
4.0
ENG1A
Nov 24, 2008

This "professor" as he calls himself was about the worst teacher i have ever had. He was no help, and I am not sure if he tries to belittle the class, but he sure does a great job. I learned nothing, he spent more time giving his opinion on EVERYTHING rather then teach what we signed up and PAID to learn, thanks Giordano!

5.0
4.0
ENGL1B
Dec 7, 2008

I would not say he is the easiest teacher, but he is without a doubt one of the best the SRJC has to offer.

5.0
4.0
ENGL1A
Dec 8, 2008

Giordano is an extraordinarily smart man with a lot to impart to his students, He was most definitely the best teacher i ever had. He wont make you do the work though, you have to take the initiative on yourself, which can be difficult for slackers and procrastinators like me.

4.0
5.0
ENG1A
Jan 6, 2009

Marco is a good teacher. He assigns A LOT of reading. I took his 1A during the summer and it was a ridiculous amount of work, but well worth it. He attempts to wake you up rather than put you to sleep, which to me is the best quality a teacher can have.

1.0
5.0
ENG1A
Jan 6, 2009

useless, expect to spend half the class staring at the clock. He'll spend 95% of the class droning on or playing videos because he likes watching himself lecture (while half the people leave). He frequently leaves class and never comes back and if you expect a good grade you are deluding yourself. He also thinks he's the next Nietzsche

4.0
3.0
ENG5
May 3, 2009

I took Eng 5 with Giordano a few years ago and loved the class. I think we bought 4 books and read and discussed at least 3 of them, and excerpts from the 4th. I thought he made it pretty easy to get a good grade, as long as you can write well and get the papers in. His lectures were interesting, and we covered important material.

1.0
5.0
ENG5
May 12, 2009

Bought 12 books, only had to read about half, and I couldn't sell the books back. Awesome. He never actually taught us how to write anything and 30% of our class dropped, 20% passed, and 50% failed. This is not an exaggeration. Out of 12 people in the class, 5 were in my class retaking it in the summer. He sent me rude emails, so that was cool too

4.0
3.0
ENGL1A
May 20, 2009

Not recommended for procrastinators. The class is difficult and has a low retention rate (at drop point we had 14 out of 32 students still enrolled) but seemed worth it. Long lectures (that get boring sometimes) and a lot of reading. Really helpful with your papers if you ask for help, but is hard to approach.

1.0
5.0
ENG1A
Jul 23, 2009

Very unclear about what you need to do to pass tge class. The class is all about listening to his political opinion. All about himself and how great he is. Degrades students. Doesn't explain well anything, expects you to magically understand the verbal diarhea he expels. Rude, uncooperative with students and sets you up for failure. You will fail.

2.0
4.0
ENG1A
Aug 2, 2009

The main purpose of the class is for his enjoyment of telling people his opinions. He requires about 12 books (one of which is a Bible, because he is all about being opinionated). Major part of the class is essay writing, not anything he says over the course of the class. Doesnot each what he requires.Gives consistently wrong due dates toward end

2.0
1.0
ENG4A
Oct 15, 2009

He is an interesting person but an awful teacher. What he teaches is not the class you sign up for, but his opinions on the class you sign up for. And don't you dare disagree with him, it won't go over well. He talks at the wall, goes off topic, doesn't organize his info at all, and talks down to his students. Advice: Drop this class if you can.

2.0
4.0
ENGL1B
May 12, 2010

Worst teacher I have ever had. The whole class is about what he believes and he makes up facts to support his argument. Often times he would say historical facts that were just down right wrong. On top of that he made dozens of grammatical errors on the handouts he gave us.

4.0
1.0
ENG4C
Jun 29, 2010

A great teacher with a style that is not for everyone. Has a lot of interesting things to say about the topics at hand, although he sometimes forgets to stop saying them. His Creative Writing class has no "required" texts or assignments, but you are graded on making a clear effort to broaden your horizons and improve your writing.

2.0
4.0
ENG1A
Jul 13, 2010

This is probably one of the worst professors i've ever had! He will ask students questions just he can cut them off and give his opinion in long, complex words. He has a unique "eff the school system" style of teaching but it doesn't work for everyone. My advice is to take another 1A class. Giordano is not a good professor

1.0
3.0
ENGL5
Sep 21, 2010

Deep insights into the psychology of narcissism: his impromptu lectures consist?to a shocking degree?of insults to colleagues, insults to students, and hints that he is secretly a world class scholar (not a self-evident possibility). Giordano might appeal to guru-seeking types, but I think a JC lecturer should display, not just allege, her merits.

2.0
1.0
ENG4ABC
Dec 4, 2010

Poor Marco is really struggling with his ego. I think he means well, but unfortunately he is not an effective speaker. He is on to some good ideas though... i feel Like he did help me find my esthetic however, by contrasting it so heavily.

5.0
5.0
ENG5
Dec 10, 2010

Giordano is a brilliant man. His lectures are interesting but he is not for everyone. He doesn't have clear due dates and is unclear about assignments. His delivery at times comes across as condescending, but I learned a lot from his class. I took English 5 as a summer class and it was A LOT of reading. NOT an easy class but I was never bored.

2.0
1.0
ENGL1A
Dec 28, 2010

Giordano is an interesting guy for sure. His lectures can be long and droning but he has interesting points. He's extremely unclear about his assignments and exactly what he wants from you. He doesn't believe in deadlines so it's the procrastinator's dream course. I got an A though, just write a lot at the end of the semester and you're golden.

3.0
1.0
CREATWRIT
Jan 10, 2011

Waste of time and money. He bashed novels and writers that he didn't like. He rewrote student?s poems and papers with what he called his silver scalpel instead of teaching any technique. He allowed students to give opinion filled critiques of other student?s writings without talking or teaching constructive criticism. I would not recommend him at a

5.0
4.0
ENGCREA
Apr 26, 2011

Now, 14 years after leaving SRJC I still recall his insight and passion for the work. I regard Marco as one of the best professors/teachers I've ever had. Now that I have an AA, a BS, and a PhamD...I guess that's saying something. Thanks Marco....Sam

3.0
3.0
ENGL1A
Jun 3, 2011

Giordano is an interesting prof. Definitely opinionated. The key to the class is to pay attention and have an open mind. He taught more of a rhetoric/critical thinking class than reading/writing comprehension so choose his classes based what your interests are. I would take another of his classes.

5.0
4.0
ENGL9121
Jul 27, 2011

Extremely good professor. He managed to convey an enthusiasm for the subject matter that was addictive and made it rewarding and interesting to learn about texts that I never would have picked up had I not taken this class. This is one of those courses that if you apply yourself you will come out of the class a different person. Thanks Marco.

2.0
3.0
ENG1A
Sep 8, 2011

He is really intelligent but there is absolutely no class involvement. He loves to hear one voice and that is his own. He never answers any questions you have and is rude and arrogant...I would not take another class from home ever again!

4.0
4.0
ENGL1A
Dec 20, 2011

This is my favorite professor at the JC. He only asks for essays that YOU want to write, not assigned essays. Its clear he is very passionate about the subject, and always willing to help when you're stuck or lost. Sometimes his lectures are a bit advanced, but its challenging in a good way. Bring lots of questions!

2.0
3.0
ENG1610
May 6, 2012

Giordano rambles constantly and is completely unclear about what he requires from students.he didnt help me learn how to write. the positve is that you choose what to write about, and attend based on when you want to go to class. he is intelligent, but misdirected. he is a genius at analyzing books for meaning, but i still dont know how to do it.

5.0
3.0
ENGL4828
May 24, 2012

I would not suggest this class to anyone, I understand that uncontrolled assignments can seem intimidating to some. However, there are those of us who enjoy free thinking and writing. Who see an education as something more than a node to a career. If you take his class be prepared to think, be prepared to process and be prepared to rewrite often!

5.0
2.0
ENG1A
Jul 5, 2012

I should've known this class was going to be so boring. His lectures are sooo long and he sometimes rambles about his life and it seems to never end. This is not your typical English class, this is a rhetoric class where you'll learn ethos, pathos, and logos. I'm surprised how I managed to pass his class but I'm glad I did.

4.0
3.0
ENGL5
Jul 7, 2012

The Professor is actually very nice; a softy underneath it all. He does want his students to take an interest--that is why he is teaching--and he will help if needed. Interesting personality to boot. Just make sure to read ahead, and don't fall behind on the assignments (questions for all the readings).

5.0
3.0
ENG1A
Nov 29, 2012

One of my favorite teaches at the jc. He shared opinions but when questioned could always reference where he found information. Incredibly articulate, funny, and less intimidating than his first class. I can only speak for his English 1A class, but he's an amazing teacher. I'll be taking him again for eng5

2.0
5.0
ENGL5
Apr 29, 2013

This teacher is VERY HARD. He is interesting when you can understand him, but for the most part he talks WAY over everyone's head... unless you are an English major. Most of our class had to drop because we just couldn't understand him. A LOT OF READING.. had to buy 16 books! Nice guy, means well, just hard to follow and keep up.

3.0
3.0
ENGL5
Jun 24, 2013

I was very disappointed with the ENGL 5 class - the syllibus was almost identical to his ENGL 1A class - in fact, I could have used about half of my 1A papers for this class. He means well, and if you read the material and do your best (do the work), you will pass. Use his office hours liberally - that is the success to learning in his classes.

1.0
5.0
ENG1B
Oct 2, 2013

He just seems to ramble with out making a point. Isn't approachable, does a lot of the "no wrong or right answer" but your answer is always wrong. Wouldn't suggest him at all.

1.0
5.0
ENG1A
Dec 5, 2013

If you like deadlines and structure don't take him. He says he has structure,but truly doesn't he assigns pretty much nothing and says turn in what you want by the week of midterm/final.If you are a procrastinator don't take him either.

3.0
4.0
ENG1B
Dec 11, 2013

He's not everyone's cup of tea and if you're taking 1B just to get a requirement out of the way, you might pass on Giordano. However, I've learned a lot about analyzing literature, his lectures are interesting, and I liked not being hand-fed the answer. What he demands of the class is reasonable and interesting.

3.0
3.0
ENGL1B
Dec 18, 2013

Always very interesting, full of valuable knowledge and insight. He has a deep understanding of literature and he tends to come off as arrogant but he is helpful-- if you ask. Utilize office hours, turn in papers early to get advice. Procrastinators will sink or swim. Reasonable homework but little to no essay structure.

5.0
1.0
ENGL1A
Jan 8, 2014

Best English experience I've had at the JC. Giordano is passionate, energetic, and truly cares for his students. He likes to challenge students to think critically about their situations, and he provides a safe environment to do this. If you want a good grade and to learn something too, definitely take a class from Professor Giordano!

2.0
3.0
SHAKE27
May 20, 2014

If he was as brilliant as he thinks he is, he would be known as a writer/poet--not a JC instructor. If you're really interested in Shakespeare, wait until you transfer.

4.0
2.0
ENG27
Grade: A
Jun 11, 2014

Bright guy, gifted even, but should be teaching at four year college- not very structured, it's like a Night at the Improv but passionate about his subject matter.

1.0
4.0
ENG1A
Jul 31, 2014

We had 30 ppl in class the first day. Including me 7 finished the class. Your whole grade is based on 3 papers. With the help of friends (who got 5 on their AP tests and that's why they aren't taking eng 1A) I wrote my papers and was given a C. Very vague. He claims how he doesn't believe in grades then gives you a bad one

4.0
4.0
ENGL1A
Grade: A+
Jan 13, 2015

The best teacher I've taken at the JC and the only person I would consider taking an english class from. I wouldn't recommend him if you likeneed structure. He is passion, very intelligent, very funny and sarcastic. His lectures are amazing. You just have to interested and smart enough to keep up.

5.0
4.0
ENGL1A
Feb 16, 2015

Marco Giordano's class was by far the most valuable academic experience of my life so far. He's not afraid to be politically incorrect and teach what truly matters. If you actually want to THINK and see the world in a new light, take his class. If you just want to write a satisfactory essay for a passing grade, go somewhere else.

5.0
4.0
ENGL1A
Grade: Not sure yet
May 18, 2015

A truly inspirational teacher that has wisdom beyond his years. It was worth the money to just sit there and hear him talk about whatever was on the table that day. A rare teacher and a brilliant man.

5.0
5.0
ENGLISH1A
Grade: A+
May 28, 2015

Best english class ever ! he is amazing ! you will never want to skip a class, his lectures are really eye opening.

3.0
2.0
ENGL1A
Grade: A
Jun 22, 2015

You have to be ready to buckle down in this class. There are no due dates, so self motivation is important. He assigns a specific word count that you must reach when you combine all your essays with no prompts (except for the final) which you can write at any time. You can also rewrite these essays for a better grade. He doesn't like MLA format..

1.0
5.0
ENGL1A
Grade: Drop/Withdrawal
Aug 11, 2015

Unclear about what he wants. Long and boring lectures. Doesn't ever tell you grade. Unorganized grading. If you fail the midterm he tells you to drop the course. Doesn't tell you what to expect on the midterm at all. Makes you buy a million books.

2.0
4.0
9121
Grade: C+
Sep 2, 2015

Amazing Professor, Highly intelligent, above and beyond average human being- but teaching at a community college to freshmen and sophomores? Professor needs to understand what LEVEL of student he is teaching. The motto is to make student understand and learn, NOT demonstrate how much a professor knows.

1.0
4.0
2208
Grade: Drop/Withdrawal
Oct 8, 2015

Clearly, this course is more about COMPOSITION than Critical thinking. I got A both in my ENGL I and ENGL II. University requires a Critical thinking course not a third Composition class. Not clear on what he wants. You would not know what grade you should expect. You don't to LEARN HOW TO THINK, it's just about how crappy life is in this class.

2.0
4.0
ENGL1A
Nov 5, 2015

For myself personally, I had a difficult time with his teaching style. He'd lecture for the entire duration of the class with some book discussions with himself and other classmates, but what I found the hardest to deal with was that there was no structure to the class and when assignments were due. Some thrive in these situations. I did not.

2.0
5.0
ENGL5
Grade: Drop/Withdrawal
Dec 17, 2015

Marco is either a secret genius or a wacko. The most difficult class I have ever taken, and also taught me more than any other class. 90% of the time I had little idea where his lectures were headed. Often veers off from his agenda. 3 hour lectures. doesn't stop to breathe let alone give us a break. Marco is for the top 1% of students. HighQuality.

4.0
5.0
ENG5
Grade: B
Feb 2, 2016

Took this class a few years ago. The class was interesting and engaging. My problem is with the grading. I had been doing A work (his admission) all semester and some how took a B in the class after the final paper. When I asked about it, he said I should have turned in the final early and often, which I did and received no bad feedback from him.

2.0
2.0
ENG4C
Grade: A
Feb 3, 2016

You have to make your own class, which is fine for an advanced student but I could see the younger ones struggling. He does not make his requirements clear, spends most of his time ranting about politics, and is one of the most unorganized teachers I have ever come across. That said, he will give you an A if you try a little, and he's hilarious.

3.0
3.0
ENGL5
Grade: Drop/Withdrawal
Mar 3, 2016

I took this as a tues night class, 2.5 hr long. He lectures the whole time, essentially ranting about interesting topics. I enjoyed his insights and passion for teaching how to analytically think about things! Although be warned there aren't really any deadlines, so just start doing the graded work asap. no textbook, just lots of smaller books.

4.0
4.0
ENG1B
Grade: A
Jul 7, 2016
Would take again

While he does not teach in a structured way, he is inspirational and one of the smartest teachers I have ever had. He challenges and makes you think. If you are looking for a typical English class, you may not enjoy the lack of structured writing. But if you are an out of the box thinker, then you will thrive in the class.

5.0
5.0
ENG4A
Nov 16, 2016
Wouldn't take again

I took this class because I thought it might be interesting, and it was. At some point, I wasn't sure if he was crazy or a genius, but probably both. I've never really written something for a creative purpose, but I did for this class and he gave me some really valuable feedback. He's a feminist and an artist in his field.

Gives good feedback
Get ready to read
GRADED BY FEW THINGS
1.0
1.0
ENG5
Mar 22, 2017
Wouldn't take again

the single worst teacher i've ever encountered. he assigns his own poems and grossly underserves his students with the arrogant prose of someone who only wants to hear himself talk. fyi -- he only has a master's from UC Berkeley. probably couldn't get a PHD advisor because he's so intolerable. don't be intimidated. it's not you -- he's just awful.

Get ready to read
Skip class? You won't pass.
5.0
3.0
ENG1A
Grade: A
May 17, 2017
Would take again

Giordano treats his students as individuals, and gives them the opportunity to take control of their own education. Classes are lecture and discussion based. He opens the class to choosing what we are reading. His syllabus requires in depth reading, the more often you turn in written work the better you will do in his class.

Get ready to read
Participation matters
Inspirational
5.0
4.0
ENG1A
Grade: A+
Aug 21, 2017
Would take again

The first class that has had a resounding impact on my educational career. This is what education is about. He stresses a desire to learn the subject matter and gives you the tools to do so, though the grade in the class is completely up to you. I turned in one final, the rest were papers I had the desire to write, with no prompts. Don't miss class

Inspirational
GRADED BY FEW THINGS
Amazing lectures
1.0
4.0
EN1A
Jan 6, 2018
Wouldn't take again

Very unclear about what is expected of you. Lectures the entire class, mostly about politics. Learned a lot about the government, but absolutely nothing about college composition.

GRADED BY FEW THINGS
LECTURE HEAVY
5.0
3.0
ENGL5
Grade: A+
Jul 2, 2018
Would take again

You are only graded by the single one paper that you can pick the prompt and rewrite as many times as you want. I would highly recommend writing about political aspects. Others are graded by satisfactory or not, but you must turn in to get an A (especially Meno, Protagoras, Medea and Hamlet/King Lear). Turn in every thing as early as possible.

Get ready to read
Clear grading criteria
Caring
5.0
4.0
ENG1A
Grade: A
Aug 17, 2018
Would take again

Community members survey his class just to hear him lecture. One of SRJCs best. Take all your Eng/Writing classes with himbut sign up early or be on a waitlist. A professor whos not a lefty liberal; hell teach you to think, to see all sides. If you love writing, hell encourage you. This is a true rhetoric/critical thinking class.

Gives good feedback
Respected
Get ready to read
5.0
5.0
ENG1A
Grade: B
Aug 27, 2018
Would take again

3 people from our one household took him, hes a must take! We are spewing Giordanoisms all the time. Do not procrastinate, start the reading and writing on day one! He doesnt like excuses. I worked hard for my B! I loved his lectures on John Taylors 7 Lesson School Teacher, and Thoreaus Civil Disobedience.

Respected
Hilarious
LECTURE HEAVY
5.0
4.0
EN1A
Grade: A
Aug 28, 2018
Would take again

I looked forward to his class, and always felt inspired and better for attending. My roommates and I discussed his class and lectures more than ones in our majors. Taking notes is a good idea, even if you think his monologues are off-topic, theyre not, he connects it all, and you can use these tasty morsels in your essays.

Gives good feedback
Inspirational
SO MANY PAPERS
5.0
5.0
EN1A
Grade: A
Aug 29, 2018
Would take again

The last class hit & I mourned like it was the last episode of my favorite Netflix series, I wanted more. Do the reading, it really does sync with his lectures. Cant start writing? Just journal your reflections on his lectures & the reading & use that in your papers & take notes and use them. Dont just think essays, think narratives. JUST WRITE!

Get ready to read
Participation matters
Amazing lectures
5.0
5.0
ENG1A
Grade: A+
Aug 29, 2018
Would take again

Giordanos the only undergrad prof that I can honestly say prepared me for law school. He doesnt hold your hand or make you do the reading & writing. Im at Cornell Law now, & Cal before this, he got me ready for the Socratic Method; be ready at all times to answer for any/all of the reading & lect. Tab your books for easy referencing and reading.

Get ready to read
Amazing lectures
LECTURE HEAVY
5.0
5.0
ENG1A
Grade: B
Aug 29, 2018
Would take again

We are lucky to have this level at the JC, he is as interesting and as highly esteemed as I found in my subsequent education in top tier graduate/postgraduate programs. I regretted procrastinating and not getting right into the reading and writing, hence the B. I went on to take his Eng5 and got an A. I still reflect on his lectures.

Respected
Get ready to read
LECTURE HEAVY
5.0
5.0
ENG5
Grade: B
Aug 30, 2018
Would take again

Wish I could take him againbut Im all done. Of the 5 years of undergrad & 2 years of grad school, his lectures are what I remember the most. Hes up there with the best. I became a writer in his class. Take him! Start reading before the first class, never miss a class, & write constantly. Dont write what you think he wants to hear. Think!

Respected
Clear grading criteria
Amazing lectures
5.0
5.0
ENG1B
Grade: A
Aug 31, 2018
Would take again

A bunch of us got together again after just graduating various colleges and reminisced about our JC days and Giordano came up; we all felt he was the most memorable and gave us the best foundation in critical thinking & writing. If you want a safe, 5-7 paragraph essay/comp class then dont take Marco. Take him if you want to think and take risks.

Respected
Inspirational
Amazing lectures
5.0
5.0
EN1A
Grade: A
Sep 8, 2018
Would take again

Youll get out of it what you put into it. I learned a lot, was an active participant, did the reading & got engaged in the subject. Some friends didnt read, didnt do the response writing, but expected a different outcome. Do the work, do the reading right up front. Do it for yourself. Approach college as a thing you do for your self.

Respected
Clear grading criteria
Amazing lectures
5.0
5.0
EN1A
Grade: Not sure yet
Oct 4, 2018
Would take again

Im taking him right now and I have to admit I had very high expectations since friends and siblings had taken him and raved, but sadly, he seems unapproachable and almost sad. I like the lectures and the reading, and am just hoping for more feedback on the writing assignments. My plan is to turn in more writing, maybe thatll gain me access.

Respected
Get ready to read
Amazing lectures
5.0
4.0
ENG4ABC
Grade: A
Nov 10, 2018
Would take again

Marco is not a traditional professor. He doesnt hand out assignments, he wants his students to make of the class what they want, make your own essay topics and read some of your own books. He can be seen as offensive for some people, although every conclusion he makes is deductive. He is a knowledgeable artist capable of talking and critiquing art

Gives good feedback
Respected
Amazing lectures
4.0
5.0
ENG1A
Grade: Drop/Withdrawal
Nov 18, 2018
Wouldn't take again

Giordano's class opened my eyes to a lot of things and really got me thinking. However, his class lacks structure, which was hard for me to handle. If you're looking for a challenge, take his class. If you're looking for an easy A, don't even think about it. He truly is a wonderful man, his class was just really hard.

Participation matters
Inspirational
LECTURE HEAVY
5.0
4.0
ENG1A
Grade: A
Nov 28, 2018
Would take again

This class is what I always thought a good college class would be. Its interesting, engaging and I feel valued as a thinking individual. He makes me want to write, to dig deeper. I dont ever want to miss a lecture. Do the writing, do it every day. The reading list is excellent. Love this class.

Respected
Get ready to read
Amazing lectures
1.0
3.0
ENG1A
Grade: Not sure yet
Nov 29, 2018
Wouldn't take again

He means well, however he does not teach anything. He talks about his own beliefs and conspiracy stories and tries to claim it is all facts. There is no engagement or hands on projects. If you are a verbal learner, he will be perfect for you. If you prefer a more visual learning, do NOT take this class. All he does is talk for 2 hours.

Respected
Get ready to read
GRADED BY FEW THINGS
3.0
3.0
ENGL1A
Dec 6, 2018
Wouldn't take again

Giordano is a different kind of teacher you will have at the JC. The lectures are heavy and you can't miss class or he will drop you. Only receive a grade on one paper at the end of the semester so anxiety is high. He does teach you how he wants you to write the paper. Overall he isn't a bad teacher if you can sit through crazy conspiracy theories

Gives good feedback
GRADED BY FEW THINGS
LECTURE HEAVY
5.0
5.0
ENG1A
Grade: A
Jan 31, 2019
Would take again

Took his Eng 1A last semester & in his 1B now. Dont drop this class! It seems scary at 1st due to the word count & all the readingjust read in your own time & start writing. Take notes, dont miss class. Tie the reading & lectures to your writiting. Write in whatever form you want; narrative, essay, prose. Dont psyche yourself out.

Respected
SO MANY PAPERS
LECTURE HEAVY
1.0
3.0
ENG1A
Feb 5, 2019
Wouldn't take again

Marco is a horrible teacher.

Skip class? You won't pass.
5.0
4.0
ENG1B
Grade: A
Feb 10, 2019
Would take again

If you dont want a university level comp/rhetoric class dont take Giordano. Others are typical for a community college, catering to remedial/return students. UCs like to see this level, and his name is well-known and respected. I took him for 1A, 1B and 5 and my advisor at my first appt. at Cal brought him up glowingly saying Id do just fine.

Gives good feedback
Respected
Amazing lectures
5.0
4.0
ENG5
Grade: A
May 2, 2019
Would take again

At first I was super nervous when I signed up for Mr. Giordano's course. But I can say that he has changed my whole perspective optics on life and on school. I will say he may be an acquired taste but if you're looking for a "real" college course. Take him!

Get ready to read
Inspirational
Amazing lectures
2.0
2.0
ENGL5
Grade: A
May 12, 2019
Wouldn't take again

Personally, I grew very uninterested in listening to yet another insane rant about fascism, women being oppressed and conspiracy theories for three hours every week. You don't actually need to do most of the reading but I do like his grading system. That part's pretty good. One assignment at the end. It's an easy A. Just another check in the box.

Gives good feedback
Graded by few things
Lecture heavy
5.0
3.0
ENG5
Grade: A
Aug 20, 2019
Would take again

Professor Giordano is less of a professor and more of an experience. At the start of class I thought he was a loon, but I quickly found that he is an incredible teacher whom I truly learned from. Everything connects in his class from the syllabus to the readings, just think for yourself and try to understand his message and you should do fine.

Respected
Participation matters
Lecture heavy
5.0
4.0
ENG1A
Grade: A
Nov 12, 2019
Would take again

Some of you won't like Marco, but he's my favorite teacher because he's practical, not a talking labcoat. Do not take advantage of the "no homework" or else you will not pass, but really try to just be open and mindful and speak your mind, because he appreciates it way more than guinea pig students we've become. Unfortunately, might have been cut.

Get ready to read
Graded by few things
Lecture heavy
1.0
4.0
ENG1A
Grade: A
Nov 14, 2019
Wouldn't take again

When I took his class, he didnt give a single grade back on an assignment till the final grades were posted. At first he gave me an F, claiming he couldnt find/ lost all of my work. I then emailed him and sent him every single assignment we ever did to prove I did it. He then remembered he had read my work and changed my grade to an A. DONT TAKE

1.0
5.0
ENG5
Grade: Drop/Withdrawal
Jan 24, 2022
Wouldn't take again

Took this wanting a challenge and got one. The syllabus was 5 pages where he rambled on and gave no info. Had to read paragraphs of rambling just to find the questions for the assignment. There are little to no instructions. When contacted he wasn't clear whether the responses had the same minimum 6,000 word requirement as essay. laughable really.

Get ready to read
Lecture heavy
Tough grader
1.0
5.0
ENG5
Jan 27, 2022
Wouldn't take again

Usually, I dont complain about teachers. I respect his viewpoints, but he does not structure his class well. I took his online course because it was the only available ENG5 class. The syllabus is basically a rant. He hides the response prompts in the modules. He gave me a D for my first assignment with no feedback. Ended up dropping the class.

Tough grader
Lots of homework
Lecture heavy
1.0
5.0
ENG5
Jan 28, 2022
Wouldn't take again

Ridiculous that hes even allowed to teach. Whole format includes text only lectures which are vague and confusing. The whole syllabus was an attack on the American education system and basically how dumb his students are. Its as if he wanted to make assignments the hardest they can be on an online setting with no other resources but his opinions.

2.0
5.0
ENG1A
Grade: C
May 27, 2022

The class is wildly different from any other course at the JC. It is more of a brain fry than an English course and it requires you to be completely open minded, sometimes even outright disagree with yourself to gain a passing grade. Hard course. If you want a challenge, this is the course for you.

Tough grader
Get ready to read
So many papers
2.0
5.0
ENG5
Grade: B
May 27, 2022

This Professor does not grade normally, meaning that he never puts in an over all letter grade. I would not recommend him at all due to this. He also gives harsh feedback seemingly designed to insult you, all over small things that may not even make an over all difference in what you are writing, all so he can "red pill" his students.

Tough grader
So many papers
2.0
4.0
ENG5
Grade: A
Jan 19, 2023

This was my first course at the SRJC. He is certainly lecture heavy, and many assignments require digging through said lectures. I barely received an A. By the end of the course, I was liking it more, but received a C and a D on the first couple assignments with little/no feedback. Don't bother buying the books in the syllabus, all are online.

Tough grader
Lots of homework
Lecture heavy
5.0
4.0
ENGL5
Grade: A+
Oct 27, 2023
Would take again

Professor Giordano was one of my favorite instructors at Santa Rosa Junior College. He is a smart individual who knows a lot about critical thought and classical rhetoric. If you don't try to think from a critical lens, you will likely not pass. He was also one of the most difficult. Make sure you read all the material.

Tough grader
Get ready to read
Graded by few things
1.0
5.0
ENG5
Jan 16, 2024

Get ready to endure a ranting, self-admitted conspiracy theorist shoving a bleak ideology down the throats of his students, all delivered by a sloppy, mediocre mind. Students are expressly forbidden to subject his indoctrination to their own reason and interpretation, and will admittedly be given Fs until they submit. Avoid at all costs.

1.0
3.0
ENG5
Grade: A
Jan 25, 2024

Awful teacher angry at the world. Treats his students like he is too smart for them. Dont expect any response on your assignments he won't tell you what you did wrong. If you reach out and ask questions expect him to respond spitfuly and rude.

Tough grader
Get ready to read
Lecture heavy
1.0
5.0
ENG5
Grade: Incomplete
Feb 26, 2024

Whatever you do don't take this dude. He does "lectures" as extremely long and very difficult to understand text dumps.

Tough grader
Get ready to read
Lecture heavy
1.0
4.0
ENG5
Grade: Drop/Withdrawal
Jan 24, 2025

Have you ever wanted to feel like English is a foreign language? Do you want to decypher every assignment because the lexicon used in the instructions is alien from what the average person uses? Do you enjoy misery? Take Giordano's class if you do because oh boy you'll get all of the above and more. Don't take this class if you're not perfect.

Tough grader
Lots of homework
So many papers
2.0
4.0
ENGL5
Grade: Not sure yet
Feb 1, 2025

Marco Giordano is a "red-pilled" conspiracy theorist who has extremely strict rules on what is correct or not when writing about abstract pieces??? On top of that, his assignments are worded in an unclear and excessively written way that forces the reader to read over them multiple times just to grasp what he is trying to say. AVOID AT ALL COSTS!

Tough grader
Get ready to read
Participation matters
2.0
2.0
ENGL5
Grade: A
Apr 30, 2025

The reviews are all true, and this class is, in fact, not a course in critical thinking, but rather in critically thinking exactly the way he wants you to, and nothing more. The rhetoric he uses to describe his assignments is needlessly verbose and certainly comes from someone who is on a very high horse. Regurgitate what he says and you get an A.

Get ready to read
Clear grading criteria
Hilarious
2.0
4.0
ENGL5
Grade: A
May 7, 2025
Would take again

The way he formats the online version of this class wasn't great, at least didn't make sense to me. Again it is online so it wasn't terrible.

Get ready to read
Clear grading criteria
1.0
5.0
ENGL5
Grade: A
Nov 13, 2025

I got an A in his class but fought for my life in doing so. Lectures are worded so excessive and confusing to the point where you question if English is your first language. Teacher is egocentric, teaches with a poor and negative attitude, and gives bad feedback (if at all). Overall a frustrating course and experience, avoid him if possible.

Tough grader
Get ready to read
Clear grading criteria
3.0
3.0
ENGL5
Grade: B+
Dec 12, 2025
Would take again

Marco Giordano is, as the other reviews say, a "red-pilled conspiracy theorist". Sort of The course I took, ENGLC1001 (formerly ENGL5), focused heavily on propaganda and conspiracy theories, with the course literally being titled "the redpill course". He grades very tough, with assignments that are pretty easy, but also gives nearly no feedback.

Get ready to read
5.0
5.0
ENGL5
Grade: A+
Dec 14, 2025
Would take again

10/10 class Hardest professor I've ever had the pleasure to take. He truly is one of a kind, and will teach you so much if you're willing to learn. You MUST be smart and willing to work to earn good grades. This class is extremely lecture heavy; be prepared to buy around 13 books and read them three times cover to cover. Lives up to its name

Tough grader
Amazing lectures
Lots of homework
3.0
4.0
ENGL5
Grade: A
Dec 24, 2025

The assignments were somewhat easy; he gave no feedback, and his grading was bad. He could give you a low score without explaining what you did wrong. Also, some of the questions he asked were phrased so badly.

5.0
1.0
ENGL5
Grade: A
Dec 24, 2025
Would take again

I took Marco Giordano's English 5 online and it was super light. He cares a lot about what he does, and he cares about his students. Expect to read some really long essays and make sure to stay on top of work, very doable. He grades very generously in my experience so don't stress about that; I'd take him again 10/10 times.

Clear grading criteria
5.0
4.0
ENGL1B
Grade: A
Dec 24, 2025
Would take again

I took ENGLC1001 fully online. His lectures, beginning modules, are very heavy and intense. So much information, not the easiest to read. Definitely college level + writing. I would reread it a few times to grasp. Reading Books=textbooks, I downloaded all online for free. Great professor, really makes you think and question everything. Whole point!

Tough grader
Get ready to read
Lecture heavy
Class Info

Online Classes

100%

Attendance Mandatory

68%

Textbook Required

60%

Grade Predictor

Your expected effort level

LowHigh

Predicted Grade

A-

95% confidence
Based on 42 grades
Most common grades:
A (27)
Drop/Withdrawal (8)
A+ (7)
Grade Distribution
A(34)B(5)C(2)D(8)F(0)A-/B+(1)
Based on 55 reported grades
A: 27
Drop/Withdrawal: 8
A+: 7
B: 5
Common Tags
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Tough grader (13)
Amazing lectures (11)
Lecture heavy (9)
Gives good feedback (7)
LECTURE HEAVY (7)
Clear grading criteria (7)
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