Effective argumentation is a core requirement of many writing assignments across the disciplines. Yet students are often unsure how to write a clear and compelling academic argument. It isn't the same as arguing with your partner or your parents! In this 50-minute session, learn the particular rules governing academic argument as well as tips for developing and defending a solid argument in your written assignments. 

"Too wordy. Redundant. Be concise." If you've ever received these kinds of comments on your papers--or if you just want to take your style to the next level--this workshop is for you! Learn techniques you can use right away to help you pare your prose and write with greater clarity, succinctness, and power. 

Congratulations--you've drafted your paper! What's next? This workshop overviews a technique of revising higher-order concerns, then looking at the finer details of your piece. You'll also learn more about common errors that can trip up even strong writers. 

Have your midterms so far been...disappointing?  It's not too late to pull up your grades by adopting study strategies proven effective by research, as well as techniques for managing your time during exams and for tackling the most common types of exam questions.

So many things compete for your attention in the summer - work, friends, weekend trips, and ... THE SUMMER!  Learn some strategies to cut through the distractions and give your summer courses the attention they need.

This non-credit course is divided into two four-week parts:

1. grammar for academic purposes; and,
2. academic writing.

Part one provides a selective overview of the key areas of English grammar that you need to master in order to express yourself correctly and appropriately in academic writing.

Part two allows you to practice paraphrasing skills, summary writing, and essay writing.

The course is not formally graded, but students will complete a diagnostic writing task in week one, a summary in week five, and a critical response in week seven, all of which will be graded and used to provide personalized feedback.

Letters of completion are available to students who attend at least 80% of the classes (13 classes) and complete the assignments. You can request a letter of completion by emailing tmossman@sfu.ca after the course has finished.

This course is offered in collaboration with the Centre for English Language Learning, Teaching, Research (CELLTR).