ELI FALL WORKSHOP SERIES: ENGLISH FOR ACADEMIC PURPOSES

Making conversation or “small talk” is one of the most challenging types of speaking to master in a second language. In this workshop, we will explore conversation topics, turn-taking strategies, active listening, and sources for sample conversations. We will consider different varieties of small talk in common graduate student contexts, such as getting to know classmates or seeming friendly and confident at a job interview or as a GSI. Come ready to practice with one another and to identify effective ways to practice on your own.

Monday, September 9, 6-8 PM, Room: 110 Weiser Hall

Have you ever struggled to write important email messages? Have you ever wondered whether your email messages reflect the professional persona you wish to project? Given the importance of email in academic and professional settings, the ability to write effective e-mail messages is an essential skill. In this workshop we will focus on strategies for writing clear, effective and professional email. We will discuss the aspects of email that make it likely to be read, to be easily understood, and to create a good impression. Bring a few samples of your important email messages to analyze.

Monday, September 16, 6-8 PM, Room: 110 Weiser Hall

Whether you are writing a research article, proposal, conference abstract or dissertation, it is important to pay attention to style. Academic style is not so much a matter of following rules, but more a matter of making choices. Even if you are aware of the stylistic conventions of your field and of academic writing in general, you may also seek ways to more strongly position yourself and create your scholarly identity. In this workshop we will discuss some common features of academic style and how to make effective stylistic choices. Bring a text you are currently working on for analysis.

Monday, September 23, 6-8 PM, Room: 110 Weiser Hall

TED Talks are everywhere. The most popular ones attract millions of viewers, and they are impacting the way public speakers present their ideas and themselves in and outside academia. In this hands-on workshop, we will explore a range of strategies for exploiting the rich array of ways you can use TED Talks to take your advanced English to the next level. We will look at resources for improving speaking, listening, and pronunciation. Bring your laptop, tablet, or phone to try things out on your own device during the workshop.

Monday, September 30, 6-8 PM, Room: 110 Weiser Hall

When you speak in front of an audience, does your voice project confidence? Is it loud enough? Do your listeners easily understand you? Is your audience engaged? Come to this workshop to explore voice and pronunciation techniques to make your presentations shine. You will receive hands-on practice presenting for one minute on a topic of your choice such as a self-introduction, an overview of your broad area of research, a new development in your field, or a quick story of something interesting you’ve experienced. Bring a script or outline for a brief talk to work on during the workshop.

Monday, October 7, 6-8 PM, Room: 110 Weiser Hall

Are you applying this fall to a PhD program? Are you trying to figure out how to organize and narrow down all that you might write in your Statement of Purpose (SOP)? How does an SOP differ from a Personal Statement? You will receive hands-on practice organizing your own SOP and finding the words to articulate why you are a great match for the program(s) you are applying to. Bring a list of ideas, a draft outline, or a draft SOP to work on during the workshop.

Monday, October 21, 6-8 PM, Room: 110 Weiser Hall