DATE

CONTENT

Session 1 –

2 May

What’s in a dissertation?

We will compare the content and structure of different examples of the genre.

N.B.

Bring a copy of an MA dissertation which is of interest to you.

Session 2 –

9 May

Undertaking and writing a literature review

We will look closely at the way in which one previous student incorporated previous theory and research into his dissertation.

Session 3 – 16 May

Refining the shape

We will focus on the introduction, the conclusion, and maintaining cohesion and coherence throughout the dissertation.

Session 4 – 23 May

Bringing it all together

N.B. Please bring a provisional outline of the contents of your dissertation

We will concentrate on your own issues and needs, applying topics we have covered to your own work-in-progress.

WEEK

CONTENT

Key dates

1 – 12 Oct

Academic reading 1

An introduction to postgraduate academic texts and reading practices

2 – 19 Oct

Please bring:

At least one course reading list

And at least three of the items on it

Academic reading 2

Managing, engaging with and recording what you read

3 – 27 Oct

In preparation for this session please read the sample student essay on 'Language Aptitude'. (If you need a copy, you can take one from the folder on Tania's door.)

Academic writing 1

A critical analysis of a student essay

Non-assessed critical review task set

4 – 2 Nov

Bring your assignment titles/tasks.

Academic writing 2: Getting started

Analysing the task, ideas-storming, planning

Tutors give details of assignments

5 – 9 Nov

Academic writing 3

Examining the writing process

Fri: hand in non-assessed critical review to Anne

6 – 16 Nov

Bringing reading into writing 1

(including introduction to Endnote )

READING WEEK

for some courses

7 – 23 Nov

Bringing reading into writing 2

Wed: non-assessed critical review returned

8 – 30 Nov

Academic writing 4

Purposes, argumentation and criticality

9 – 7 Dec

Academic writing: Finishing touches

Considering the reader of your essay

10 – 14 Dec

NO SESSION

Fri. 3.00p.m : Deadline for first assignment.