Building Assignment Writing Skills



Overview

Whether you are new to study or are experiencing a problem with some aspect of essay-writing, this workshop will help you to develop a systematic approach to planning, writing and presenting your assignment.

This session is designed for students new to study but will also be of interest to students experiencing problems with a particular aspect of essay writing or wishing to develop a more systematic approach to planning, writing and presenting their assignment.

We shall discuss common problems and explore ways of:

  • interpreting the question;
  • producing an essay plan;
  • constructing, developing and supporting your argument,
  • writing your introduction and conclusion;
  • reading critically to improve your writing and editing skills;
  • presenting your footnotes and bibliography.

The session will include group and individual exercises to practice the skills discussed. Handouts will be provided for future reference.

Programme details

  • This course will include:
  • Interpreting essay questions;
  • Producing an essay plan;
  • Constructing, developing and supporting an argument; 
  • Introductions and conclusions;
  • Producing and presenting references and a bibliography.

Fees

Description Costs
Course Fee £50.00

Funding

If you are in receipt of a UK state benefit or are a full-time student in the UK you may be eligible for a reduction of 50% of tuition fees.

Concessionary fees for short courses

Tutor

Mrs Anne West

Tutor

Anne West has been teaching Study Skills at OUDCE, both face-to-face and online, for over 10 years. The thought of spending a day with students teaching spelling, punctuation, grammar or any other aspect of written English fills her with joy. She believes that a piece of writing, at whatever level, deserves to be written and read, as clearly as possible, to give pleasure and satisfaction to both writer and recipient – and also to save a lot of time for both.

She’s also been involved with writing and editing for the BBC – children’s radio and TV.

Course aims

To analyse and practise the skills required to plan, write and present an essay.

Teaching methods

A range of teaching methods will be used including: mini-lectures, OHP presentations, elicit exercises, class discussion, small group discussion, group exercises and individual exercises. The workshop will be fully supported with handouts and students will be encouraged to discuss study problems and solutions and to practise new skills.

Learning outcomes

  • By the end of the workshop students will have:
  • Explored techniques to use in researching, planning, writing and presenting an academic essay;
  • Practised essay planning and writing skills;
  • Identified ways of improving their own planning, writing and presentational skills.

Accommodation

Accommodation in Rewley House - all bedrooms are modern, comfortably furnished and each room has tea and coffee making facilities, Freeview television, and Free WiFi and private bath or shower rooms.  Please contact our Residential Centre on +44 (0) 1865 270362 or email res-ctr@conted.ox.ac.uk for details of availability and discounted prices.

Terms & conditions for applicants and students

Information on financial support