Module Content

• Various conventions of the academic writing genres
• The logical organization of the academic essay
• Types of academic writing, in relation to different purposes and audiences
• The concept of argument and argumentative writing
• Types of academic essay, e.g. argumentative essays
• The planning and drafting required in the process of writing
• How to write a coherent and clear paragraph
• How to write a clear and informative introduction and conclusion, how to develop an a argument within the main body of the essay
• The English language commonly used in academic essays, including specific vocabulary and grammar (passive voice, tense usage, etc.)
• Correct referencing and citation practices
• How to integrate sources into the essay using quotation, paraphrasing and summarising
• How to avoid plagiarism
• How to do library research in order to write on a particular essay topic
• Oral presentation skills

Teaching Methods

The students will have access to a wide range of learning and teaching resources, both inside and outside the classroom. Students will work individually and in pairs/groups so as to cover all the skills needed for writing within an academic context. They will also receive two one-to-one 15-minute tutorials in both semesters, to assist them with their first and second essay-draft.
The employability skills that the course develops are mainly communication skills, having to do with fluent and accurate oral and written expression in English, as well as logical and critical thinking skills: the ability to produce an organized and well-structured text and to analyse texts critically. There is also an important focus on (library) research skills, in particular on teaching students how to research a topic and how to integrate bibliographical material into their essay by paraphrasing, summarizing, and citing sources correctly.

Assessment Methods

This module is assessed through a group presentation (30%) and a long essay (70%).