2023/2024
Academic English Writing
Category 'Best Course for Broadening Horizons and Diversity of Knowledge and Skills'
Category 'Best Course for New Knowledge and Skills'
Type:
Optional course
Delivered by:
School of Philosophy and Cultural Studies
When:
2, 3 module
Open to:
students of one campus
Instructors:
Olga Zolotareva
Language:
English
ECTS credits:
2
Contact hours:
54
Course Syllabus
Abstract
The course is aimed to introduce students to the conventions of academic English. It addresses different genres of academic writing and is focused on developing writing and presentation skills that would enable students to communicate effectively in the academic environment. These skills are evaluated on the basis of an examination at the end of the course. During the examination the students are expected to present their research proposals, based on their BA theses, first in the written form (2000 - 2500 words) and then orally, in front of the examination committee. The course guides students through all stages of preparing their research proposals: designing its structure, defining methodology, critically assessing sources as well as scholarly texts, and developing their own arguments. The students also learn the principles of an effective academic presentation: they are taught to speak in front of an audience, keep within time limits and handle questions. The course involves an intensive practice of grammar and academic vocabulary to ensure the accurate use of language. In addition to writing academic texts, the students are taught to write curricula vitae and cover letters; these skills are seen as equally important in helping students to pursue their academic careers. The students will also learn the rules of academic communication, both direct and mediated, and have an extensive practice in academic socializing.
Learning Objectives
- To introduce students to the conventions of academic writing; • to develop their writing and presentation skills; • to build up the students’ vocabulary of academic English; • to ensure students’ accurate use of language; • to enable them to communicate effectively in the academic environment.
Expected Learning Outcomes
- Students will be able to: • write research proposals; • critically assess the literature in their field of study; • explain the significance of the study and place it in relation to the works of other scholars; • organise their arguments both in writing and speaking; • write summaries of their research; • present their findings in front of an academic audience; • handle questions regarding their research; • write CVs and cover letters; • communicate effectively with their academic colleagues.
Course Contents
- Introduction to the course
- Writing CVs
- Writing cover letters
- Academic correspondence
- Writing a research proposal: abstracts and titles
- Literature review
- Writing an introduction. Part 1
- Writing an introduction. Part 2
- Writing a conclusion
- Academic presentations
Assessment Elements
- Writing assignmentsThroughout the course, students submit 10 texts: 1) CV; 2) academic cover letter; 3) two emails - an inquiry and a follow-up; 4) abstract of their research proposal; 5) review of article (200 words); 6) literature review (700 words); 7) research proposal's introduction, part I (background, significance, scope, and goals); 8) proposal's introduction, part II (keywords and theoretical underpinnings); 9) proposal's introduction, part III (methods, sources, structure); 10) research proposal's conclusion and Power Point presentation (7 slides)
- Class participation
Bibliography
Recommended Core Bibliography
- Academic writing : from paragraph to essay, Zemach, D. E., 2005
- Hartley, J. (2008). Academic Writing and Publishing : A Practical Handbook. New York: Routledge. Retrieved from http://search.ebscohost.com/login.aspx?direct=true&site=eds-live&db=edsebk&AN=224109
- Johnson, A. P. (2016). Academic Writing : Process and Product. Lanham, MD: Rowman & Littlefield Publishers. Retrieved from http://search.ebscohost.com/login.aspx?direct=true&site=eds-live&db=edsebk&AN=1222793
Recommended Additional Bibliography
- English for academic study : vocabulary, Campbell, C., 2007
- English for academic study: Writing : course book, Pallant, A., 2004