This module is a study skills and English language academic writing support module designed for students whose first language is not English. It forms part of the University Skills Centre In-Sessional Academic Skills Support provision. No degree credits are associated with this module.
The module has been designed to meet the specific needs of International students who are new to the demands of UK university study. The module respects the skills that you have already gained from your previous study and will highlight cultural and educational differences so that you are able to perform to your maximum in tasks and course assignments.
The syllabus is appropriate for students arriving at the University to join undergraduate courses. It provides enhanced English language academic and study skills development, with a particular focus on the skills required to perform competently in written and spoken academic tasks and assignments (e.g. essays, reports, lectures, seminars, presentations) at undergraduate level. Tasks and source materials are tailored to suit the requirements of students enrolled on the course.
Syllabus
Classes cover a wide range of skills which will enhance your ability to read, write and speak English effectively in academic contexts. Skills covered include:
- identifying features of academic style
- achieving coherence and cohesion
- analysing the essay question and developing research questions
- writing introductions and conclusions
- developing paragraphs and use of topic sentences
- comparing and writing definitions
- synthesizing ideas
- summarising and paraphrasing source materials
- revising and editing
- locating and selecting sources
- skimming and scanning for main ideas and specific information
- reading efficiently and taking effective notes
- referring to sources in text
- compiling a reference list
- listening and notetaking in lectures
- developing seminar skills
- expressing opinions, agreement and disagreement
- developing oral presentation skills and the use of visual aids.