Writing to Convince: Communicating in an International Context, 7.5 credits

Main field of study

Course level

Advancement level

Entry requirements

General entry requirements for undergraduate studies
and
English corresponding to the level of English in Swedish upper secondary education (Engelska 6)
Exemption from Swedish

Intended learning outcomes

On completion of the course, you should be able to:

• write texts adapted to different genres within a given time frame
• apply basic English writing rules
• write texts in a well structured and rhetorical way adapted to different written genres and target groups
• analyse non-fictional texts from a rhetorical and normative perspective
• based on given criteria describe and critically reflect on how non-fictional texts can be rhetorically constructed and affect the reader
• give constructive feedback based on rhetorical models and given criteria

Course content

The course treats the basics of rhetoric with focus on writing. Fundamental rhetorical concepts and various non-fictional written genres are introduced. The main focus of the course is the analysis and implementation of rhetorical structures as well as linguistic and textual norms in relation to different genres. The course also includes giving and receiving feedback as an important part of the writing process.

Teaching and working methods

This course is based on lectures, seminars, and group work. Independent study and preparation are a necessary complement.

Language of instruction and examination: English

Examination

There are five written course assignments and there will also be three oral assignments in which you present your written work.

Grades used in this course are Fail (U), Pass (G) or ECTS. Students’ final grades in the course reflect both oral and written work. The assessment is based on​​​​​​​

• Individually written assignments, grades: Fail/Pass 
• Individually written assignments, grades: ECTS
• Individual oral assignments, grades: ECTS
• Active participation in peer review exercises, grades: Fail/Pass 

The final course grade is based on the average of all differentiated grades.

Criteria for pass are consistent with the intended learning outcomes above. Criteria for higher grades are based on the level of:

• independence in arguments and interpretations
• use of secondary sources
• effective use of rhetorical devices
• clarity of structure and thought

If special circumstances prevail, and if it is possible with consideration of the nature of the compulsory component, the examiner may decide to replace the compulsory component with another equivalent component.

If the LiU coordinator for students with disabilities has granted a student the right to an adapted examination for a written examination in an examination hall, the student has the right to it.

If the coordinator has recommended for the student an adapted examination or alternative form of examination, the examiner may grant this if the examiner assesses that it is possible, based on consideration of the course objectives.

An examiner may also decide that an adapted examination or alternative form of examination if the examiner assessed that special circumstances prevail, and the examiner assesses that it is possible while maintaining the objectives of the course.

Students failing an exam covering either the entire course or part of the course twice are entitled to have a new examiner appointed for the reexamination.

Students who have passed an examination may not retake it in order to improve their grades.

Grades

Other information

Planning and implementation of a course must take its starting point in the wording of the syllabus. The course evaluation included in each course must therefore take up the question how well the course agrees with the syllabus. 

The course is conducted in such a way that there are equal opportunities with regard to sex, transgender identity or expression, ethnicity, religion or other belief, disability, sexual orientation and age.

If special circumstances prevail, the vice-chancellor may in a special decision specify the preconditions for temporary deviations from this course syllabus, and delegate the right to take such decisions.

About teaching and examination language

The teaching language is presented in the Overview tab for each course. The examination language relates to the teaching language as follows: 

• If teaching language is “Swedish”, the course as a whole could be given in Swedish, or partly, or as a whole, in English. Examination language is Swedish, but parts of the examination can be in English.
• If teaching language is “English”, the course as a whole is taught in English. Examination language is English.
• If teaching language is “Swedish/English”, the course as a whole will be taught in English if students without prior knowledge of the Swedish language participate. Examination language is Swedish or English depending on teaching language.

Department