240 Writing Skills courses

This course is designed to help adult learners develop the necessary language skills for academic success in an English-speaking environment. Through a combination of reading, writing, listening, and speaking exercises, participants will enhance their abilities to comprehend and produce academic texts, engage in critical thinking, and effectively communicate their ideas in written and spoken English.  Course Duration: 12 weeks (24 sessions) Course Objectives: By the end of this course, participants will: 1. Improve their academic vocabulary and understanding of complex grammatical structures. 2. Enhance their reading comprehension skills for academic texts. 3. Develop effective note-taking strategies for lectures and presentations. 4. Enhance their academic writing skills, including essay structure and research techniques. 5. Improve their ability to deliver academic presentations and participate in discussions. 6. Gain familiarity with academic conventions and citation styles. Course Outline: Week 1: Introduction to Academic English - Assessing participants' language proficiency and academic goals - Overview of the course syllabus and expectations - Introduction to academic vocabulary and common idiomatic expressions Week 2: Reading Comprehension - Scanning and skimming techniques for efficient reading - Strategies for understanding main ideas and supporting details - Vocabulary building through reading academic texts Week 3: Note-taking Skills - Effective note-taking during lectures and presentations - Organizing and summarising information - Practice exercises and listening activities Week 4: Academic Writing: Paragraph Structure - Understanding the components of a well-structured paragraph - Developing topic sentences and supporting ideas - Practice exercises on paragraph development Week 5: Academic Writing: Essay Structure - Introduction to essay structure: introduction, body, and conclusion - Crafting clear and concise thesis statements - Developing coherent and well-supported arguments Week 6: Research Skills and Citations - Introduction to academic research techniques - Evaluating sources for credibility and relevance - Understanding and applying citation styles (e.g., APA, MLA) Week 7: Grammar for Academic Writing - Review of essential grammar structures for academic writing - Practice exercises on sentence structure and complex grammar - Common grammatical errors to avoid in academic writing Week 8: Academic Writing: Research Papers - Understanding the research paper format and structure - Conducting literature reviews and integrating sources - Drafting and revising research papers Week 9: Academic Speaking: Presentations - Preparing and delivering effective academic presentations - Using visual aids and engaging the audience - Practicing presentation skills through individual and group activities Week 10: Academic Speaking: Discussions and Debates - Participating in academic discussions and debates - Expressing opinions and supporting arguments effectively - Listening and responding critically to others' viewpoints Week 11: Academic Writing: Critical Analysis - Analyzing and critiquing academic texts - Developing critical thinking and evaluation skills - Writing critical analysis essays Week 12: Review and Final Projects - Reviewing course content and addressing individual needs - Finalizing and presenting individual projects - Course evaluation and feedback session Note: This syllabus is a guideline and can be customised based on the specific needs and preferences of the participants. You can opt in and out of different modules. 

This very practical workshop is designed to enable participants to improve the impact, clarity and accuracy of their business documents - both internal and external.: This workshop will help participants: Identify the purpose of writing their documents - to themselves and to their readers Recognise and meet the needs of their readers Plan documents systematically and improve the layout, flow and structure Express the content more clearly, concisely and correctly Adapt the tone and style of writing to the circumstances Proof-read and edit work effectively, using formal marks and techniques Improve visual layout, format and appearance 1 Course objectives Welcome and Introductions The problems now - group discussion 2 Writing better business documents What points to highlight / exclude Starting off Introductions Conclusions Executive summaries 3 Rules and standards George Orwell's famous maxim Why write? - clarifying your aims and objectives A seven-step method for better preparation The three-stage process for writing well Grouping information for your reader 4 Proof-reading and editing The difference between proof-reading and editing Proof-reading methods and strategies Proof-reading marks and techniques Training your eye for detail Knowing what to look for 5 Effective editing Grammar and English standards Words - usage and spelling Sentences - units of thought Paragraphs - themes Punctuation - spotting and correcting common errors Say what you mean - active v passive language 6 How's your English? Grammar quizzes and punctuation test Spotting spelling errors Rephrasing jargons and clichés Common error's and mistakes 7 Document layout House style Use of white space Fonts and effects 8 One-to-one workshops These are practical sessions with one-to-one consultation with colleagues and the trainer They are held at key points to consolidate the learning from different sessions 9 Course summary Summary of key points Action plans

This English Exam Preparation course is specifically designed for adult learners who are preparing to take an English language proficiency exam, such as IELTS, TOEFL, or Cambridge exams. Participants will focus on developing the necessary skills and strategies to achieve a successful outcome in their chosen exam. Through targeted practice, exam-specific tasks, and personalised feedback, learners will gain confidence and proficiency in all sections of the exam. Course Duration: 12 weeks (48 sessions) Course Objectives: By the end of this course, participants will: 1. Understand the format and requirements of the chosen English language proficiency exam. 2. Develop effective strategies for each section of the exam. 3. Enhance reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills within the context of the exam. 4. Expand vocabulary and improve language accuracy for exam-specific tasks. 5. Practice time management techniques to complete tasks within the allocated time. Course Outline: Week 1: Introduction to the Exam - Introduction to the chosen English language proficiency exam - Overview of the exam format, sections, and scoring criteria - Assessment of participants' current language proficiency and individual learning goals Week 2: Reading Skills and Strategies - Understanding different question types in the reading section - Developing reading skills for comprehension, skimming, and scanning - Practice exercises and strategies to improve speed and accuracy Week 3: Writing Skills and Strategies - Analyzing the writing tasks and requirements of the exam - Developing skills for organising ideas, structuring paragraphs, and coherence - Practice exercises for different writing tasks (essays, reports, letters, etc.) Week 4: Listening Skills and Strategies - Identifying question types and understanding the listening section format - Developing listening skills for main ideas, details, and inference - Practice exercises and strategies for improving listening accuracy and note-taking Week 5: Speaking Skills and Strategies - Understanding the speaking section requirements and assessment criteria - Developing skills for fluency, coherence, and pronunciation - Practice exercises for different speaking tasks (interviews, presentations, etc.) Week 6: Vocabulary Expansion for Exam Tasks - Expanding vocabulary in specific topics and themes relevant to the exam - Practice exercises to reinforce and use new vocabulary effectively - Techniques for deducing meaning from context and using appropriate vocabulary Week 7: Grammar and Language Accuracy - Reviewing and reinforcing essential grammar rules and structures - Identification and correction of common grammar errors in exam tasks - Exercises and activities to improve language accuracy in writing and speaking Week 8: Time Management and Exam Strategies - Strategies for time management and prioritizing tasks during the exam - Practice exercises to improve speed and efficiency in completing tasks - Tips and techniques for maximizing scores in each section Week 9: Mock Exam: Reading and Writing - Simulating a complete reading and writing section of the exam - Timed practice sessions to replicate exam conditions - Detailed feedback and analysis of strengths and areas for improvement Week 10: Mock Exam: Listening and Speaking - Simulating a complete listening and speaking section of the exam - Timed practice sessions to replicate exam conditions - Detailed feedback and analysis of strengths and areas for improvement Week 11: Exam Strategies Review and Practice - Reviewing and reinforcing exam strategies for each section - Targeted practice exercises to address specific challenges and areas of improvement - Individualised feedback and guidance based on participants' performance Week 12: Final Evaluation and Exam Tips - Comprehensive review of all exam sections and strategies - Final evaluation to assess participants' progress and readiness for the exam - Tips for managing test anxiety and mental preparation for the exam Note: This syllabus is a guideline and can be customised based on the specific exam requirements and the needs, interests, and proficiency levels of the participants. The course may also include additional topics or activities to cater to learners' specific goals or areas of focus.

This workshop is very practical in its nature and aims to give delegates an opportunity to not only learn about the key aspects of successful bid writing, but to also put them into practice. The workshop helps delegates understand what is most important to buyers and how to successfully convey they proposition to them. 1 Welcome and introductions 2 The mindset of successful bid writing The mindset needed for successful bid writing Thinking from the buyer's perspective and not your own 3 Decision making The way buyers make decisions - rational and emotional Understanding buying motives Looking at how to present ideas against those motives The idea of cognitive fluency How to pitch an idea in a way that leads to a positive decision 4 To bid or not to bid? Writing a bid is a big commitment; a clear understanding of the chances of winning is required Understanding of the implications of winning and the impact it will have on the organisation 5 Understanding your value proposition Framework to help identify unique proposition and how that fits in with the requirements of the bid 6 The tender process Understanding the process to enable a successful chance of winning the bid Different types of tender processes Evaluation of criteria and the impact on bid writing 7 Writing skills Different ways of writing and structuring bids to ensure their messages gets across well in a way that will be looked on favourably by the buyer 8 Summarise 9 Close

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Writing Clear Business Communication This program is about learning about the writing process and covers the full spectrum of documents used when corresponding in the workplace. The ability to write effectively comes naturally to some people, but for the vast majority, it is a task often approached with a mixture of trepidation and dread. Effective writing seldom, if ever, 'magically materializes' on the spot. In reality, it is most often the product of planning, writing, and rewriting. This is why writing is called a process; it must go through a series of steps before it is clear and complete. This program is about learning about the writing process and covers the full spectrum of documents used when corresponding in the workplace. The ability to write effectively comes naturally to some people, but for the vast majority, it is a task often approached with a mixture of trepidation and dread. However, the ability to communicate in the written word, for whatever purpose, is an important part of our working and personal lives and can have a direct impact on our ability to persuade, gain commitment or agreement and enhance understanding. Good writing sounds like talking on paper, which is why this program is focused on getting the message across and achieving the desired results using the 'keep it simple and direct' approach. What you Will Learn At the end of this program, you will be able to: Write effective e-mails, letters, memos, and reports Clearly articulate the message Achieve desired results from correspondence Organize content for maximum impact Format for enhanced understanding Choose the appropriate communication medium for each document Revise documents to increase clarity and impact Foundations Concepts Business writing as a form of professional communication How business writing compares to other forms of writing Characteristics of good business writing Challenges with business writing The Project Environment Business writing in the project environment The concept of art, science, and optics of business writing Art Economy Precision Action Music Personality Science Purpose, simple, compound, and complex sentence structures Techniques to engage the reader Point of view: tone, attitude, and humor Organization: opening, body, and closing Support and coherence Optics Visual optics Sound optics Feel optics Effective optics Efficient optics Email Formal vs. informal emails Suggestions for improving email communication Instant and text messaging Reports Common types of reports created Formatting of reports Guidelines for meeting minutes Contracts Types of contracts Common agreements Procurement documents Templates, Forms, and Checklists Templates Forms Checklists Other Formatting Good Documentation Practices Good documentation practices Data integrity in business communication

Writing Clear Business Communication: In-House Training This program is about learning about the writing process and covers the full spectrum of documents used when corresponding in the workplace. The ability to write effectively comes naturally to some people, but for the vast majority, it is a task often approached with a mixture of trepidation and dread. Effective writing seldom, if ever, 'magically materializes' on the spot. In reality, it is most often the product of planning, writing, and rewriting. This is why writing is called a process; it must go through a series of steps before it is clear and complete. This program is about learning about the writing process and covers the full spectrum of documents used when corresponding in the workplace. The ability to write effectively comes naturally to some people, but for the vast majority, it is a task often approached with a mixture of trepidation and dread. However, the ability to communicate in the written word, for whatever purpose, is an important part of our working and personal lives and can have a direct impact on our ability to persuade, gain commitment or agreement and enhance understanding. Good writing sounds like talking on paper, which is why this program is focused on getting the message across and achieving the desired results using the 'keep it simple and direct' approach. What you Will Learn At the end of this program, you will be able to: Write effective e-mails, letters, memos, and reports Clearly articulate the message Achieve desired results from correspondence Organize content for maximum impact Format for enhanced understanding Choose the appropriate communication medium for each document Revise documents to increase clarity and impact Foundations Concepts Business writing as a form of professional communication How business writing compares to other forms of writing Characteristics of good business writing Challenges with business writing The Project Environment Business writing in the project environment The concept of art, science, and optics of business writing Art Economy Precision Action Music Personality Science Purpose, simple, compound, and complex sentence structures Techniques to engage the reader Point of view: tone, attitude, and humor Organization: opening, body, and closing Support and coherence Optics Visual optics Sound optics Feel optics Effective optics Efficient optics Email Formal vs. informal emails Suggestions for improving email communication Instant and text messaging Reports Common types of reports created Formatting of reports Guidelines for meeting minutes Contracts Types of contracts Common agreements Procurement documents Templates, Forms, and Checklists Templates Forms Checklists Other Formatting Good Documentation Practices Good documentation practices Data integrity in business communication

Producing well-structured and coherent academic papers is a crucial skill for students at all levels. Whether writing essays, term papers, or research assignments, understanding the essential principles of academic writing helps in presenting ideas clearly and persuasively. Strong writing skills not only improve grades but also enhance critical thinking and communication abilities. One of the first steps in crafting a high-quality paper is selecting a strong topic. When given the freedom to choose, students should focus on subjects that genuinely interest them while ensuring there is sufficient research material available. Exploring analytical research paper topics can be a useful approach, as these require students to evaluate, interpret, and provide evidence-based arguments. Choosing a topic with depth allows for a more comprehensive analysis and makes the writing process more engaging. Once a topic is established, conducting thorough research is essential. Gathering information from reputable sources such as scholarly journals, books, and academic databases helps strengthen arguments. Organizing research notes efficiently prevents last-minute scrambling for sources and ensures proper citation of references, which is vital for maintaining academic integrity. Keeping track of key points during research also helps in structuring the paper effectively. A well-defined thesis statement is the foundation of any strong academic paper. This statement should clearly express the main argument or perspective of the work and provide direction for the entire essay. A precise and arguable thesis helps keep the content focused and ensures that every paragraph contributes to supporting the central claim. Without a solid thesis, papers may lack cohesion and appear unfocused. Structuring the paper effectively is another crucial aspect of academic writing. A logical arrangement of ideas enhances readability and allows readers to follow arguments easily. Standard academic papers typically follow an introduction-body-conclusion format. The introduction should present background information and introduce the thesis, while body paragraphs should each focus on a single supporting point, providing evidence and analysis. The final section should reinforce key arguments and leave a lasting impression on the reader. Time management plays a significant role in producing high-quality academic work. Many students struggle with deadlines, often resulting in rushed assignments that lack depth and clarity. Breaking the writing process into manageable steps—such as brainstorming, researching, outlining, drafting, and revising—allows for a more structured and less stressful approach. Planning ahead also ensures there is enough time to refine arguments and improve the overall presentation. Careful editing and proofreading are essential to producing polished work. After completing the first draft, students should review their writing for clarity, coherence, and grammatical accuracy. Reading the paper aloud can help identify awkward phrasing and inconsistencies. Additionally, seeking feedback from peers, professors, or even using a review essay writing service can provide valuable insights for improvement. Tools like grammar checkers and plagiarism detectors can further enhance the final version before submission. Mastering academic writing requires consistent practice and attention to detail. By focusing on topic selection, thorough research, logical structuring, and careful revision, students can develop their writing skills and create compelling, well-argued papers that stand out in any academic setting.

This very practical session is designed to enable participants to improve the impact, clarity and accuracy of their reports. It focuses equally on the two key areas - structure and writing technique. This course will help participants: Scope reports based on objective and intended readership Write a structured report Use the Fog Index to ensure readability Write grammatically correct and well-punctuated text Review and edit their work. 1 Introduction Objectives and overview Introductions and personal aims 2 What makes a good report? Practical activity and feedback 3 Before you start The planning process and scoping a report Organising information Key report headings What goes where? Writing practice and review 4 Writing tips and techniques Clear English and use of language Grammar and sentence structure Refresher in punctuation Writing in the third person The Fog Index - and how to measure readability 5 Pulling it all together Reviewing and proofing 6 Review Summary of key learning points Action planning

The aim of this programme is to help attendees create better quality technical documents in an organised and efficient manner. It will give those new to the topic an appreciation of how to approach the task professionally whilst those with more experience will be able to refresh and refine their skills. The programme comprises three complementary one-day modules: The programme presents a structured methodology for creating technical documents and provides a range of practical techniques that help delegates put principles into practice. Although not essential, it is strongly advised that delegates for modules 2 and 3 have already attended module 1, or another equivalent course. Note: the content of each module as shown here is purely indicative and can be adapted to suit your particular requirements. This course will: Explain the qualities and benefits of well written technical documents Present a structured approach for producing technical documents Review the essential skills of effective technical writing Demonstrate practical methods to help create better documents Provide tools and techniques for specification and report writing Review how technical documents should be issued and controlled Note: the content of each module as shown here is purely indicative and can be adapted to suit your particular requirements. Module 1: Essential skills for technical writers 1 Introduction to the programme Aims and objectives of the module Introductions and interests of participants 2 Creating effective technical documents What is technical writing? how does it differ from other writing? Key qualities of an effective technical document Communication essentials and the challenges faced by technical writers The lessons of experience: how the best writers write The five key steps : prepare - organise - write - edit - release (POWER) 3 Preparing to write Defining the document aims and objectives; choosing the title Understanding technical readers and their needs Getting organised; planning and managing the process Integrating technical and commercial elements The role of intellectual property rights (IPR), eg, copyright 4 Organising the content The vital role of structure in technical documents Deciding what to include and how to organise the information Categorising information: introductory, key and supporting Tools and techniques for scoping and structuring the document Creating and using document templates - pro's and con's 5 Writing the document Avoiding 'blinding them with science': the qualities of clear writing Problem words and words that confuse; building and using a glossary Using sentence structure and punctuation to best effect Understanding the impact of style, format and appearance Avoiding common causes of ambiguity; being concise and ensuring clarity Using diagrams and other graphics; avoiding potential pitfalls 6 Editing and releasing the document Why editing is difficult; developing a personal editing strategy Some useful editing tools and techniques Key requirements for document issue and control Module 2: Creating better specifications 1 Introduction Aims and objectives of the day Introductions and interests of participants The 'POWER' writing process for specifications 2 Creating better specifications The role and characteristics of an effective specification Specifications and contracts; the legal role of specifications Deciding how to specify; understanding functional and design requirements Developing the specification design; applying the principles of BS 7373 Getting organised: the key stages in compiling an effective specification 3 Preparing to write a specification Defining the scope of the specification; deciding what to include and what not Scoping techniques: scope maps, check lists, structured brainstorming The why/what/how pyramid; establishing and understanding requirements Clarifying priorities; separating needs and desires: the MoSCoW method Useful quantitative techniques: cost benefit analysis, QFD, Pareto analysis Dealing with requirements that are difficult to quantify 4 Organising the content The role of structure in specifications Typical contents and layout for a specification What goes where: introductory, key and supporting sections Creating and using model forms: the sections and sub sections Detailed contents of each sub-section Exercise: applying the tools and techniques 5 Writing the specification Identifying and understanding the specification reader Key words: will, shall, must; building and using a glossary Writing performance targets that are clear and unambiguous Choosing and using graphics Exercise: writing a specification 6 Editing and releasing the document Key editing issues for specifications Issue and control of specifications Module 3: Writing better reports 1 Introduction Aims and objectives of the day Introductions and interests of participants The 'POWER' technical writing process for technical reports 2 Creating better reports What is a technical report? types and formats of report The role and characteristics of an effective technical report Understanding technical report readers and their needs The commercial role and impact of technical reports Getting organised: the key stages in compiling a technical report 3 Preparing to write reports Agreeing the terms of reference; defining aims and objectives Being clear about constraints; defining what is not to be included Legal aspects and intellectual property rights (IPR) for reports Preparing the ground; gathering information and reference documents Keeping track of information: note making, cataloguing and cross referencing Tools and techniques for developing a valid and convincing argument 4 Organising the content The role of structure reviewed; some typical report structures Who needs what: identifying the varied needs of the readership What goes where: introductory, key and supporting sections Creating and using model forms: the sections and sub sections Detailed contents of each sub-section Exercise: applying the tools and techniques 5 Writing the report Planning the storyline: the report as a journey in understanding Recognising assumptions about the reader; what they do and don't know Converting complex concepts into understandable statements Presenting technical data and its analysis; the role of graphics Presenting the case simply whilst maintaining technical integrity Exercise: writing a technical report 6 Editing and releasing the report Key editing issues for technical reports Issue and control of technical reports