Support workshops – Wednesdays 3-5pm, C1.03a Chesham Semester 1 Week 2 3&7 4 5 6&8 9 10 11-13 Workshop focus Reading The aim of this session is to improve your reading skills. We will look at what makes a good reader, analyse the various types of reading techniques, discuss speed reading, and examine how to make effective notes. Academic Writing In this session we will look at how to write a good introduction, how to support your arguments, how to reference and avoid plagiarism, how to paraphrase effectively and how to write a good conclusion. Bring along samples of your own work and any questions you have. Common Errors in Writing Avoid the common mistakes in academic writing by coming along to this session. We will look at the most common errors in grammar, punctuation, style, referencing and spelling. Academic style In this session we will analyse the style of academic texts. We will discuss the features of: Formality / Precision / Objectivity / Complexity / Coherence / Caution Critical thinking skills We will look at the difference between descriptive and critical writing. By asking questions we will learn how to analyse a text effectively distinguishing fact from opinion and identifying examples, reasons and arguments. We will challenge some weak arguments and look at how you can apply critical thinking to evaluate academic theories and ideas. Presentation skills Do you want to improve your presentation skills? We will look at how to organise and structure your presentation, discuss tips on delivery and body language, learn about signposting, and critically evaluate a short presentation. Please bring you own short presentation (between 5 and 10 minutes) along to practise. Editing and Proofreading In this session we aim to look at the necessity of editing your work. We will learn how to proofread more effectively in order to avoid typographical, grammatical, lexical and punctuation errors. Individual appointments in the International Study Centre (ISC) on any aspect of academic skills. To book an appointment, go to the ISC or email thelanguagecentre@bradford.ac.uk Class materials are on Blackboard. Go to Blackboard ‘Home’, type ‘Support Classes’ into Organisation Search and follow instructions to enrol.