Graduate-Level Writing for International Students

Welcome to GRAD 6210/8210

I am delighted that you have registered for this course. Teaching second/third/fourth language writers is one of my professional passions. Writing is a skill that can be learned and continuously improved through research-based instruction, ongoing practice, and constructive feedback. GRAD 6210/8210 provides each of these three methods in order to help further develop students' academic writing skills.

This semester will probably be like no other you have experienced before: The COVID-19 pandemic is still negatively impacting different parts of the U.S., including North Carolina, and shows no signs of abating anytime soon. Given these circumstances, I encourage each of you to get vaccinated (if you haven't already been) and to take the precautions you need.

As we begin this semester, please keep in mind the following guiding principles for our class (drawn from Whitaker, 2020):

• Put people first. Having empathy for others is a part of the ethos of our course.

• Stay informed. Please be aware of the public health situation on campus and in the Charlotte metropolitan area, so that you can make informed decisions in all aspects of your life.

• Communicate early and often. Although we will be connected during class, in writing conferences, and at other times, please feel free to reach out to me or our Teaching Assistant, Justina Vasquez, if you are have difficulty with this course.

• Celebrate accomplishments. Acknowledging your accomplishments, no matter how large or small, during this time is especially important, because your accomplishments are evidence of your perseverance. Throughout the semester, I will periodically ask students to share their accomplishments, so please keep track of yours.

• Prioritize your well-being. Please make sure that you consistently make healthy choices, including sleeping 7-9 hours/night, eating nutritious food, and exercising regularly, to help you sustain good health and a positive mood.

I am so happy that you have chosen to take this course. Let’s work together to make this semester great!

Why It Is Important to Read this Syllabus Carefully

This syllabus contains the policies and expectations I have established for GRAD 6210/8210: Graduate-Level Writing for International Students. These policies and expectations are intended to create a productive learning atmosphere for all students. Unless you are prepared to abide by these policies and expectations, you risk losing the opportunity to participate further in the course.