Module description
This core Foundation module will teach you how to understand the language used in a range of academic disciplines, and how to express yourself orally and in writing, which are essential skills for university study.
Designed for students with a high level of English, this Academic Communication Skills for STEM module will help you to become more aware of the conventions of academic writing and improve your ability to communicate in a variety of written and spoken modes.
In particular, you’ll learn how to:
- identify the key points in academic articles;
- take effective notes on academic lectures;
- produce essays and reports;
- use a range of discussion language to take part in discussions on a range of topics.
As the name of this module suggests, there is a specific focus on communication and critical thinking. By the end of the programme, you will be able to put forward logical, evidence-based arguments and evaluate those of others, engage confidently with your tutors and peers, and thereby excel in your undergraduate studies.
Assessment details
You’ll be assessed for this Academic Expression and Critical Thinking module through coursework (80%) and exam (20%).
Learning outcomes
At the end of this Academic Expression and Critical Thinking module, you will be able to:
- apply critical thinking skills to evaluate and utilise arguments, data, concepts and theories from academic sources to build and support a well-constructed line of argument
- produce written and oral work that adheres to the disciplinary conventions in a range of academic fields in the physical sciences, acknowledging differences between them
- find and select academically appropriate sources on a range of topics
- demonstrate a high level of proficiency over a range of academic lexis and grammar.