Introduction
Is poor punctuation poisoning your prose? Does grammar get you down? Are you “spell check” dependent? Do you lack the fundamental skills needed to communicate effectively in writing or self-confidence in those skills? Are you ready to write, but need a brush up on the basics? No matter what you need to write, if you need the nuts and bolts of a writer’s toolbox – this introductory course in basic writing skills is for you.
Along with exercises to test your skills and point out problems, participants will be able to practice using their own fiction projects, personal or business communication, every day job needs, or other writing and receive feedback from fellow students and instructor. Your specific needs and questions will also be addressed. You will improve your skills and gain tools to keep improving. Delegates will need to submit a brief sample of their writing — creative, non-fiction, or work-related — the first day of the programme.
Knowledge Development Objectives
At the end of the programme, participants should be able to:
- Write reasonably well-focused, well-organized, and stylistically and grammatically proficient paragraphs.
- Write reasonably well-focused, well-organized, and stylistically and grammatically proficient 2-3 page expository essays.
- Write proficient business letters, proposals, reports, etc
- The student will be able to use the writing process to initiate ideas, to create and revise drafts, and ultimately to produce a relatively polished product.
Course Content
- Introduction
- Components of a good writer
- Content and Ideas
- Organization
- Style
- Grammar
- Vocabulary
- Spelling
- Word Use
- Punctuation
- Sentences and paragraphs
- Structure
- Audience & Clarity
- The Writing Process (Pre-writing, drafting, feedback and revision)
Who Should Attend:
For those who want to refresh their grammar and writing skills.