For students from countries where their primary language isn’t English and who are writing college essay can be challenging.
However, English ability is not all when it comes to writing effectively. Even native English writers can have trouble if they don’t follow the right approach.
Maurice Boissiere, lecturer and adjunct professor of English writing at The University of Maryland, confirms this opinion.
“I have taught international students who received A’s on their essay as well as local students failing this class” Boissiere explained. “Really the goal is to have questions.”
These questions help to clarify the purpose or theme of the essay. This is called prompts.
Stil, design, and intent
What are some questions to ask prior to creating an essay? Boissiere suggested that every student should think about the writing style formatting, purpose and format.
The term “style” decides whether the essay is an academic paper, a position statement and an opinion piece or a summary essay. Will you be able to convince the reader to support your view? Do you present a well-researched and researched view of an area? In a summary of an particular event? They each have their own approach in the way they write.
Format is the structure of an essay like Modern Language Association (MLA); American Psychological Association (APA) style, that is typically used for scientific papers; and Chicago Manual of Style (CMOS).
Purpose, he said, is key to formulating the best thesis. That means you must know what they are writing about and not wander through the subject in a haze.
Precision, concision, proofreading
Once you’ve answered these, there are three tips to ensure that your essay will be properly written.More Here thekatynews.com At our site
First, you must be precise in order to make your voice clear.
“When I hear words or phrases that are confusing this is a huge signal to me,” Boissiere said. “There is no point to expressing yourself in an sophisticated way if your reader can’t comprehend what you’re explaining.”
A second point is concision or concisely expressing ideas.
“Writing is really thinking. If you’re unable to convey precisely what you’re trying get across, then there’s unclear or unclarity in your reasoning,” Boissiere stated.
Last but not least, ensure somebody –preferably one who is a native speaker reviews your essay before you print the final version. Don’t hand in an essay with spelling, punctuation grammar, printing or spelling errors.
In addition, by editing and revising sections that appear odd or out of place to your American classmates, you’re actually learning on U.S. culture.
“I always strive to assist international students proofread their writing when they require it. This is a part of my job hereat MIT,” declared John Pugh, graduate student and instructor in the English Department.
“Cultural differences are a major obstacle for international students who are not used to thinking critically. Writing definitely aids in this,” he added.
Last but not least, Boissiere said, not enough students seek assistance.
“I have office hours each week to help with a specific reason,” Boissiere said. “But I don’t see a lot of students coming to me with questions.”