Study Guide

Learning outcomes

Proficiency level: B2-C1

Students are able
-to identify the characteristics of academic writing
-to demonstrate their proficiency in applying academic writing conventions
-to demonstrate their ability in critical thinking and analysis
-to demonstrate ability in collaborative situations
-to produce a 6-page academic paper in pairs or in groups of three.

Implementation and methods of teaching

Fully online studies: reading and exercises to do on Moodle, quizzes, assignments to hand in according to the course schedule (deadlines); individual and teamwork. Students produce a six-page academic paper in pairs or in groups of three on a topic of their choice. The process involves an analytical and reflective approach to one's own writing.

Timing and attendance

No scheduled classes or online meetings. Students are required to meet the submission deadlines for assignments. All the course materials are available right from the start.

Learning material and recommended literature

Learning materials are provided by the teacher, on Moodle. Supplementary reading: Bailey, S. 2022. Academic Writing for University Students. London, UK : Routledge, Taylor & Francis Group.

Alternative completion methods

Recognition of prior leaning (RPL): Fill in the application form and send it to the course responsible teacher, who decides on the on the method of demonstrating competence and any additional requirements.

Exam retakes

Students who fail the course will need to complete the course requirements (the compulsory assignments and the course paper) in an acceptable manner within one year (12 months) from the end of the course period. Consult the course teacher.

Learning environment

Moodle. Email for communication between the students and the teacher.

Student time use and work load

Student workload is equivalent to 3 credits (80 hours). 1-3 assignments to hand in every week. Intensive studies during the course period of 4 weeks. Course paper to hand in by 15 September 2025.

Contents

CONTENTS:
- general principles of academic writing: purpose and audience; referencing and citing; attitude, strength, and outline
- writing as a process
- structure of academic writing: IMRaD, the CARS model of introductions
- academic writing style
- organisation, flow and coherence
- practice

Additional information for students: previous knowledge etc.

The course is for students with a higher level of proficiency and will be conducted at CEF level C1. Therefore students should have at least a B2 level in English. In order to self-assess your level of English, look for the CEFR Self Assessment Grid on the Internet.

Students who have successfully completed courses in academic or scientific writing in English are not recommended to take this course. Consult the teacher.

Assessment criteria

Successfully completing the online assignments and quizzes, producing an academic paper according to the task instructions, and demonstrating an analytical approach.

Assessment scale

Approved/Failed

Failed (0)

Student does not complete the course assignments. Student's language skills are not adequate. The message is not delivered. The text lacks logic. Student fails to demonstrate any skills of analysing textual features

Assessment criteria: assessment scale failed/approved

The student can produce an academic paper with a structure and layout according to the guidelines, but a few minor flaws may occur. Written communication is logical, quite fluent, clear, and mostly correct. The structures and professional vocabulary are adequate to deliver the message. Minor inconsistencies may occur concerning the genre and/or style. The topic is handled in the usual way, meeting the task requirements. The student manages citations and references logically, observing the essential general principles and the paper guidelines taught in the course. The student demonstrates an ability to critically analyse one's own and others' writing.