English for Academic Purposes: Writing in English

• demonstrate the written communicative skills and critical thinking skills necessary for English-medium university studies
• apply appropriate linguistic registers in different communicative situations
• apply standard conventions for essay structure
• use correct English grammar in writing with regard to sentence structure, verb and noun forms
• critically evaluate sources and use references with proper citation conventions in their own writing
• provide constructive feedback on both the content and the structure of essays written by other students
• identify their own problem areas as regards academic writing in English and show an ability to improve their writing.

Students write a series of written exercises which are developed through feedback from other course participants and the teacher. Students read other course participants‘ written work and give feedback. As needed, students complete specific exercises pertaining to aspects of the writing process and English grammar. In the seminars the writing process is discussed, including formal aspects and citation conventions. Specific problem areas are taken up in general and group discussions.
The course consists of several modules:

1. Grammar, 1.5 Credits
Students review the grammar concepts and terminology that they are expected to be aware of when studying English at the G1 Entry Level in English and which students need to master in order to successfully complete the other four modules of this course. Mastery of these concepts is examined through a written exam. Students write short texts and practice using the peer-review process during the seminars.

2. Punctuation, Structure and Citation, 1.5 Credits
Students review English punctuation rules, guidelines for correct format and structure of an academic essay, and proper citation and referencing. Critical evaluation of sources and their reliability is discussed. Students write short texts and practice using the peer-review process during seminars.

3. Descriptive Language in Written Production, 1.5 Credits
The seminars focus on the grammatical structures and vocabulary needed to write an essay of a descriptive nature. The students write essays and take part in peer-review seminars.

4. Narrative Language in Written Production, 1.5 Credits
The seminars focus on the grammatical structures and vocabulary needed to write an essay of a narrative nature. The students write essays and take part in peer-review seminars.

5. Persuasive Language in Written Production, 1.5 Credits
The seminars focus on the grammatical structures and vocabulary needed to write an essay of a persuasive nature. The students write essays and take part in peer-review seminars. Concepts from all five modules are examined through a written exam.

Obligatory seminars including group discussion, lectures and self-study. All teaching is conducted in English.

The Swedish grades U–VG.

To earn a VG for the course, the student must earn a VG in module 5 and at least two other modules.

Reporting of grades:
Module 1: Grammar - 1.5 cr
Module 2: Punctuation, Structure and Citation - 1.5 cr
Module 3: Descriptive Language in Written Production - 1.5 cr
Module 4: Narrative Language in Written Production - 1.5 cr
Module 5: Persuasive Language in Written Production - 1.5 cr