Academic Writing & Presentation Skills

Why take this course?

This course is ideal for early-career lecturers, administrative staff in academic sectors, and researchers eager to enhance their foundational academic writing and presentation skills, with a special emphasis on the nuances of style and register in both written and spoken contexts.

What will I study?

Day 1: Foundations of Academic English and Register

• Introduction to the importance of register in academic writing.
• Building an academic vocabulary (reference to the Academic Word List)
• Adapting sentence structure to suit formal academic register.
• Language aspects considered:

1. -         Abbreviations

Day 2:  Academic Writing Style

• Structuring academic paragraphs with a focus on stylistic choices.
• Exploring academic tone and stylistic nuances.
• Crafting a paragraph with attention to style and register.
• Language aspects considered:

1. -         Hedging and signposting
2. -         Reporting language

Day 3: Presentation Skills with a Stylistic Edge

• Basics of academic presentation with a focus on linguistic style.
• Pronunciation and stylistic expression.
• Effective use of stylistically appropriate visual aids.
• Language aspects considered:

1. -         Presenting with visual information - (Figures / statistics / charts / trends)
2. -         Comparing and contrasting

Day 4: Synergizing Writing and Speaking with Style

• Harmonizing written skills with oral expression, focusing on stylistic coherence.
• Preparing a stylistically aware presentation based on written work.
• Peer feedback focusing on style and register.
• Language aspects considered:

1. -         Identifying arguments and using supporting evidence
2. -         Paraphrasing
3. -         Using cautious language - levels of politeness

Day 5: Professional Presentation Workshop

This final-day workshop will provide participants with a holistic and practical toolkit to effectively manage presenting through English.

Participants will complete a stylistically and register-appropriate written assignment and presentation and receive individual feedback focusing on style, register, and overall effectiveness.

Course conclusion with tips for continuous stylistic and register development.

Materials provided

All photocopies/handouts and powerpoint presentations provided

Minimum Level of English: B1 on the CEFR (Intermediate)

To Register: Click HERE 

Delivery: in person at Dorset College. 

Active Social Programme: We have an active social programme at the college which changes each month.  

Accommodation Options: We have a number of options that participants can choose from.  You can book your own accommodation or apply for Dorset College accommodation at enquiry stage.  We offer student apartments or a host family.  Accommodation prices are available upon request.