ESL 204 Academic Writing

General Structure
This pre-advanced class teaches students the basics of academic term papers writing. Six specific essay forms are taught: academic, cause-effect, compare-contrast, problem-solution, summary-response, and argumentative. Students are expected to write several essays over the course of the session.

Grading
Students are graded on participation (10% of total grade), a 150 point midterm writing exam (45% of total grade), and a 150 point final writing exam (45% of total grade). Students are strongly encouraged to practice their writing as must as possible so as to gain the most points on the midterm and final.

Academic
This is the most general form. It appears similar to a five-paragraph structure, which includes an intro, body, and conclusion. This form is used to introduce and describe complex topics.

Cause-Effect
We have two forms here: one cause, many effects and many causes one effect. What is most important here is the relationship between the causes and effects described.

Compare-Contrast
Using either point-by-point or block structure, students assess two related things or topics.

Problem-Solution
With this essay, students describe a problem and suggest the best possible solution. Being persuasive is key with this essay.

Summary-Response
Students are given an article to summarize and respond to. Skills learned in the argument analysis of the debate class are vital for the response portion of this essay.

Argumentative
Students construct an argument based on a given prompt. Counter-argument refutation is essential to this essay type.