https://uni-gpt.net/
Title: Proper Formatting of Academic Documents Using MLA Format
Grade Level: Tertiary / University Level
Subject: English Grammar and Composition 1
Lesson Duration: 60 minutes
Learning Objectives:
1. Understand the importance of proper formatting in academic documents using MLA
format.
2. Learn and apply the key rules and guidelines of MLA formatting.
3. Gain familiarity with key terms and their definitions.
4. Demonstrate the ability to format academic documents, such as essays or research
papers, using MLA style.
Materials:
- Computers or tablets for each student
- Projector or screen for demonstrations
- Handouts summarizing key MLA rules and guidelines
- Sample academic documents in MLA format
- Internet access for web links
Procedure:
I. Introduction and Engagement (10 minutes)
- Start the lesson by discussing the importance of proper formatting in academic
documents. Explain why MLA format is commonly used in various disciplines.
- Discuss the historical and cultural context of the development of MLA format,
emphasizing its origin in the fields of literature and language studies.
II. Key Terms and Definitions (10 minutes)
- Present a list of key terms related to MLA formatting and their definitions. Important
terms include:
a. In-text citations
b. Works Cited
c. Signal phrases
d. Indentation
e. Hanging-indent
f. Page headers
III. MLA Formatting Rules and Guidelines (20 minutes)
- Explain the components required for proper formatting in MLA style, focusing on:
a. Document structure (title page, headings, font size and style, line spacing, etc.)
b. In-text citations (formats for citing books, articles, websites, etc.)
c. Works Cited page (format, alphabetical order, indentation, etc.)
d. Use of signal phrases and author-page citations
IV. Demonstration and Practice (15 minutes)
- Using a projector or screen, demonstrate the entire process of formatting an academic
document in MLA style step-by-step. Show students how to set up the document and
demonstrate the formatting rules and guidelines mentioned in section III.
- Distribute handouts summarizing key formatting rules for students to reference.
V. Practical Application - Hands-on Activity (15 minutes)
- Assign students a brief writing activity or provide a sample academic document to
format.
- Instruct students to apply their knowledge of MLA format to properly format the given
document, including applying the learned rules and guidelines for in-text citations and
generating a Works Cited page.
- Circulate throughout the classroom, offering assistance and providing feedback as
necessary.
VI. Review and Closure (5 minutes)
- Review the main points of the lesson, emphasizing the importance of proper formatting
using MLA style in academic writing.
- Provide any additional guidance or clarification on MLA formatting as needed.
Web links:
- Purdue Online Writing Lab (OWL) MLA Formatting and Style Guide:
[https://owl.purdue.edu/owl/research_and_citation/mla_style/mla_formatting_and_style_
guide/mla_formatting_and_style_guide.html]
- Modern Language Association (MLA) Style Center: [https://style.mla.org/]
Historical and Cultural Context:
- Discuss the historical context of the Modern Language Association (MLA) and its role
in the development of MLA format as a standardized system of documentation in the
humanities discipline. Provide a brief overview of the origins and growth of the MLA.
Practical Applications:
- Emphasize to the students that the learned MLA formatting skills are crucial not only
for the course but also for future academic and professional endeavors.
- Discuss practical applications of the knowledge gained, such as the importance of
consistent documentation, citing sources, and presenting one's work in a professional
manner in various academic disciplines and beyond.
Important Dates and Locations:
N/A (as this information is not directly related to the content of this lesson)
Note: The estimated minutes per component part can be adjusted as per the level and
pace of your students, and can be divided or expanded to incorporate different activities
or discussion points.