Fall 2019 Guide
WW
About the Writing Center
2
Locations & Hours
3
Undergraduate Students Academic Writing Advanced Writing Opportunities Events for Undergrads
4-5 6 7
For Undergrads, Grad Students, Instructors & Staff Writing Retreats & Community-Building
8
New Media & Writing
9
Style, Grammar, & Punctuation
10
Documentation & The Writer’s Handbook
11
Letters, Résumés, & Applications
12-13
Graduate & Professional Students On the Academic Job Market Presentation Skills Academic Writing Dissertations & Long Projects
14 15 16-17 18-19
Instructors, Academic Staff & Faculty Approaches to Improve Teaching & Learning Instructor Guide for Using Our Services
20-21 22-23
For more information, visit writing.wisc.edu
WELCOME to the Writing Center OUR GOAL To help UW-Madison undergraduate students and graduate/professional students across ALL disciplines and at ALL levels to become more effective and confident writers.
SUPPORT FOR THESE FREE SERVICES Writing Center services are offered free of charge to all UW-Madison undergraduate and graduate students, post-docs, staff, and faculty through the support of the College of Letters and Science.
OUR SERVICES Individual Instruction Individual instruction is the heart of the Writing Center. These one-on-one meetings are with trained doctoral-level writing instructors who provide a helpful audience for students, pointing out possible problems in their drafts and offering advice for revisions.
Workshops We also offer free, non-credit workshops for undergraduate students, graduate and professional students, instructors, faculty, and academic staff on a variety of writing situations.
Outreach, Writing Fellows, and WAC Instructors, faculty, and academic staff should refer to our website and information on pages 20-23 regarding our Outreach program, the Writing Fellows Program, and the Writing Across the Curriculum (WAC) program.
ALL TYPES OF WRITING, ALL LEVELS When you browse our catalog, you see all types of writing—from undergraduate lab reports and PhD dissertations to presentations and cover letters. That variety of workshops is reflective of the many types of writing that students are working on in the Writing Center.
FIND OUT MORE Check out our website—writing.wisc.edu. You can also get regular updates on our workshops and other aspects of our programs by following us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
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writing.wisc.edu
Locations & Hours WHERE WE ARE Our main location on the 6th floor of Helen C. White Hall is where the majority of our individual instruction and workshops take place. In addition to our email and skype instruction, we also provide instruction on a firstcome, first-served basis in satellite locations throughout campus. See our schedule below.
Main Location Hours: 6171 Helen C. White Hall • • •
September 4-20: M-R 10:00 am-5:30 pm, F 10:00 am-3:00 pm September 23-December 11: M-R 10:00 am-8:30 pm, F 10:00 am-3:00 pm December 12, 13, 16: (R, F, M) 10:00 am-3:00 pm
Satellite Locations and Hours (below) •
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UNDERGRADUATE STUDENTS
Strengthen Your Academic Writing Lab Reports: Five Secrets for Successful Writing Thursday 10/10 Wednesday 11/13
3:30-4:45 3:30-4:45
Sec. 1 (in the BioCommons) Sec. 2
FY5
Science is important and fun, but science writing can be difficult! If you’re an undergraduate and need to write a lab report for class, this workshop is for you. We’ll look at a few sample lab reports and talk about what makes them successful, focusing in on the purpose of each core component: introduction, materials and methods, results, and discussion. You’ll leave the workshop with specific strategies for improving the organization and clarity of your own lab report. If you already have a draft, go ahead and bring it with you!
Building Your Argument: Strategies for Writing Stronger Papers Wednesday 10/9 Thursday 11/14
3:00-4:15 4:00-5:15
Sec. 1 Sec. 2
FY5
Has your professor or TA asked you to “strengthen,” “clarify,” or “organize” your arguments? Not sure what they want you to do? In this workshop, we will analyze the classic structure of argument-driven papers and talk about what makes this structure persuasive to academic readers. You’ll leave with a sharper understanding of what makes effective arguments and strategies for crafting your own. This workshop will be most useful for first- and second-year undergraduates writing for humanities and social science classes.
Writing In-Class Essay Exams That Impress Friday 9/27 Tuesday 12/3
1:00-2:15 4:00-5:15
Sec. 1 Sec. 2
FY5
Not sure what professors are looking for on an in-class essay exam? This workshop will answer your questions and prepare you for writing collegelevel essays during exams. We’ll discuss ways to study for these exams, plan your answers, start your essays effectively, and manage your time during the exams—so you’ll be ready to write well-developed, coherent essays!
Strategies to Grow Confidence about Your Writing Tuesday 9/24 Friday 11/1
5:00-6:15 1:00-2:15
Sec. 1 Sec. 2
FY5
Does improving your writing feel impossible? Do you lack confidence in the face of challenging writing assignments? This workshop, designed for undergrads, will provide you with concrete strategies for changing how you think about your potential as a writer. Beginning with common challenges of college writing, we will explore the many ways that you can develop more confidence and resilience as a writer—in college and beyond.
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Reading Strategies to Step Up Your Research Game Wednesday 10/2 Tuesday 11/5
3:30-4:45 4:00-5:15
Sec. 1 Sec. 2
FY5
When you’re writing a research paper, do you have to read complex academic articles? When doing that kind of reading, do you highlight almost everything? Do you read every sentence, but not remember what you read? Or do you not know where to start? In this workshop for undergrads, you will learn five strategies to help you read efficiently and with a clearer purpose, in order to write stronger papers.
Paraphrasing Like a Pro: How to Successfully “Use Your Own Words” Friday 10/11 1:00-2:30 Sec. 1 Wednesday 11/13 2:00-3:30 Sec. 2 Do you struggle to convey information from sources in your own words? Are you not sure when to paraphrase? This workshop will introduce paraphrasing techniques and show you how to effectively embed paraphrased material from any source (such as articles, books, and more). Whether you’re new to researched writing or just need a review, put that thesaurus down and come join us for hands-on practice! This workshop is open to undergraduates and graduate students working on all types of research writing.
Writing About Literature: How to Build an Engaging Interpretive Argument Monday 9/30 Tuesday 10/29
3:30-4:45 4:30-5:45
Sec. 1 Sec. 2
Not sure how to go about writing an essay for your literature class? This workshop will get you moving in the right direction by addressing some of the biggest challenges undergraduate students experience when writing a literary analysis. With other workshop participants, you’ll practice strategies for close reading a text, learn to revise thesis statements for clarity and originality, and discuss options for organizing paragraphs and analyzing quotations. Whether you’re writing about a play, a poem, or a graphic novel, this workshop will provide you guided practice in the critical thinking skills you need to succeed in academic writing.
FY5
writing.wisc.edu
FIRST-YEAR FIVE: Workshops to Help You Thrive If you’re a first-year student or a transfer student, you can pick up new skills and prepare for college writing assignments by attending Writing Center workshops. We encourage you to take the five workshops marked with the First-Year Five symbol— and you’ll give yourself a great start on many of the types of assignments that you’ll encounter. Page 5
UNDERGRADUATE STUDENTS
Advanced Writing Opportunities Undergraduate Writing Groups every Tuesday and Wednesday starting 9/25 from 4:00-5:30 Do you have a lot of writing to do? Would you like encouragement and a supportive space as you navigate your writing project(s)? Join a small group of other students from across the university at relaxed meetings where you’ll have the opportunity to log dedicated writing time each week and work through challenges with a community of your peers! A Writing Center instructor will attend meetings to help you set goals, structure your work time, and check in about your progress each week. If you are interested in the groups, please fill out a survey by Thursday, Sept. 19 at the following link: https://go.wisc.edu/ fhkorv and we will follow up with you. For questions, email Mia at alafaireet@ wisc.edu.
Writing Proposals for Hilldale and Holstrom Research Thursday 11/21
4:00-5:30
Sec. 1
If you’re applying for one of the University’s prestigious Hilldale or Holstrom research fellowships, don’t miss this workshop! You’ll have the chance to review successful applications from past years in a variety of fields and learn strategies that will help you stand out as a strong applicant. The application deadline for these awards will be in February 2020. Visit this link for more information about undergraduate Hilldale awards: http://awards.advising. wisc.edu/hilldale-undergraduatefaculty-research-fellowship/.
Learning and Integrating Common Features of Professional Research Writing* Monday 9/23 Thursday 10/31
3:00-4:30 2:00-3:30
Sec. 1 Sec. 2
Are you interested in discovering how professional research writing is structured in the natural and social sciences? In this workshop for graduate students and advanced undergraduates, we will unpack misconceptions about research writing and call attention to frequently used words and sentence structures within specialized disciplines. Learning the features of your professional discourse community will help you better meet expectations for getting your own research published. Please bring short drafts of your own research or work with one of the supplied examples for applying what you’ve learned. *Note: You will benefit the most from this workshop if you’re confident you already have a firm grasp of English grammar. If you would like to refresh your grammar skills, check out our Grammar workshops!
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UNDERGRADUATE STUDENTS
Writing Center Special Events
Come Celebrate the Writing Center’s 50th Anniversary! Friday, November 8 Watch for more details about our student-friendly events to celebrate the Writing Center and our support for students. There will be tours for students, a scavenger hunt, fun writing activities, giveaways, cake, and more!
Midnight Madness Sunday, December 8, 6:00pm-1:00am The Writing Center invites undergraduates to bring their research papers, writing assignments, application letters, résumés, and cover letters to College Library for individual instruction. There will be forty-two 30-minute appointments with Writing Center instructors starting at 6:00pm and running until 1:00am. First come, first served--so get there early to sign up! And there will be free coffee, soda, and treats to help keep you energized. #midnightmadness
writing.wisc.edu
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UNDERGRADS, GRAD STUDENTS, INSTRUCTORS & STAFF
Writing Retreats & Community-Building An Outdoor Writer’s Retreat: Walking, Thinking, and Writing Friday 9/27 Friday 10/11
1:00-5:00 Sec. 1 12:00-4:00 Sec. 2
Does relaxing between drafts seem impossible, or even counter-productive? Do you find you think better when moving instead of sitting at your computer? Are you interested in new ways to promote creativity in your writing process? Come to this workshop—designed for writers of all levels—to reflect on your current writing process, engage in a relaxing 45-minute group walk along the Lakeshore Path, and then buckle down to write with a refreshed body and mind. You’ll gain first-hand experience in learning why some of the greatest writers of all time, literary and science-based, attest to walking as a crucial part of their drafting and revision processes. In this alternative-style writer’s retreat, we will explore ways that walking can help focus your attention, build new connections between ideas, reflect on your writerly process, and take advantage of your surrounding environment to take control of your writing.
A Writer’s Retreat Wednesday 10/9 Saturday 10/26 Monday 11/11 Thursday 11/14 Saturday 11/30 Tuesday 12/3
3:00-7:00 9:00-1:00 3:00-7:00 5:00-9:00 9:00-1:00 6:30-10:30
Sec. Sec. Sec. Sec. Sec. Sec.
1 (Ebling) 2 3 (Ebling) 4 5 6 (Gordon)*for undergrads
It’s time to get moving with your term paper, dissertation, thesis, novel, research project, or other major writing project. And time is exactly what a writer’s retreat offers. Retreat participants will engage in brief goal-setting exercises followed by time to write, with Writing Center staff on hand for consultation. Registration is limited to 20 participants for each section.
Writing for Social Justice dates TBA (see our website for more details) •
What kinds of power do words really have?
•
What does it mean to be a writer-activist?
•
How can each of us get involved in writing for social justice?
Join us for lively discussion of these questions at this new 3-part workshop series. Featuring a variety of speakers and formats, this inclusive series is designed to engage all members of the UW-Madison community, from undergraduates to faculty. All are welcome, and we hope you will join the conversation!
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UNDERGRADS, GRAD STUDENTS, INSTRUCTORS & STAFF
New Media & Writing How to Make Presentation Slides Clear and Dynamic Wednesday 10/2 Tuesday 11/5
2:00-3:30 2:00-3:30
Sec. 1 Sec. 2
On their own, oral presentations can sometimes feel dry and underwhelming. This workshop digs into how using slides to emphasize key points can enhance your presentation by making it more dynamic, interesting, and compelling. We will focus on three main areas of visual composition: incorporating graphics and animations; balancing text, image, and blank space; and connecting your message to the audience. While we will focus on using Google Slides, the core principles we discuss are relevant for all types of presentation software (e.g. PowerPoint, Prezi).
How to Email Like a Professional Thursday 9/26 Friday 11/15
3:30-5:00 Sec. 1 12:30-2:00 Sec. 2
Want to demonstrate your good “communication skills” to a potential employer? Need to request an extension or letter of recommendation from a professor? In this workshop, we’ll talk about how to compose professionally effective emails. Along the way, we’ll have fun looking at examples of what not to do, and we’ll address your specific questions, scenarios, and concerns.
Creating Research Posters Friday 10/30
3:30-5:00
Sec. 1
If you need to create a research poster, this workshop is for you! In this planning workshop, you’ll analyze sample posters and discuss the process for making an effective research poster. DoIT offers additional workshops where you’ll experiment with programs to begin designing your own research poster. Please consult their website for more information about their design courses.
Writing with Scrivener: Software to Keep Your Long Projects Organized Tuesday 10/15
2:00-4:00
Sec. 1
Are you working on a large writing project? You’re not alone if you struggle to keep your sources, notes, and drafts organized. In this workshop, co-taught by the Writing Center and DoIT, you will get training in Scrivener software and explore ways it can facilitate your thinking and writing.
writing.wisc.edu
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UNDERGRADS, GRAD STUDENTS, INSTRUCTORS & STAFF
Style, Grammar & Punctuation Grammar I: A Review of English Grammar* Monday 9/30 Thursday 10/17
3:00-5:00 3:30-5:30
Sec. 1 Sec. 2
This workshop will refresh and expand your vocabulary for talking about grammar by generating and addressing some common grammar problems together. We’ll briefly review some of the fundamental rules of grammar and the principles behind them and work through errors often related to nouns, pronouns, and verbs.
PUNCTUATION! Punctuation? Punctuation. Friday 10/25
1:00-3:00
Sec. 1
The punctuation you use can dramatically alter your meaning. Here’s your chance to review the basics of punctuation—including how to use commas, colons, and semi-colons—in a fun and friendly environment. We’ll take a logical and systematic approach to punctuating academic prose which you’ll be able to remember and use long after the workshop is over.
Grammar II: Grammar and Editing for Style and Clarity* Thursday 10/10 Monday 11/11
3:00-5:00 3:00-5:00
Sec. 1 Sec. 2
In this workshop, we’ll review principles for writing grammatically correct and stylistically clear phrases, clauses, and sentences. We’ll discuss common problems like misplaced modifiers, faulty parallelism, comma splices, and sentence fragments. We’ll also emphasize building a “self-editing” checklist which participants will develop by applying workshop principles to a piece of their own writing. A solid grasp of English grammar or Grammar I is recommended before attending this workshop. *Note: These grammar workshops are a review, rather than an introduction, of English grammar. They provide in-depth explanations of the parts of speech and rules of usage that are most commonly misapplied in academic writing.
Improving Style Tuesdays 10/8-10/29 3:00-4:30 Mondays 11/4-11/25 3:30-5:00
Sec. 1 Sec. 2
This four-week workshop is for undergraduate and graduate students who want to improve their writing style. We’ll consider the effects of stylistic variations while we review standards for clear and readable prose. This workshop is especially appropriate for students who write about complex ideas, and who want to make these ideas accessible to their readers.
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UNDERGRADS, GRAD STUDENTS, INSTRUCTORS & STAFF
Documentation & The Writer’s Handbook The Basics of APA Documentation Thursday 9/19 Monday 10/21
4:00-6:00 3:00-5:00
Sec. 1 Sec. 2
Do you have to document sources in your paper following APA style, a documentation system commonly used in psychology, nursing, education, and other social sciences? Come to this workshop to learn and practice the basics of citing sources within your paper, compiling a reference list, and using headings—all according to the latest APA guidelines.
Creating Tables and Figures in APA Research Papers Tuesday 9/24 Thursday 11/7
4:00-5:30 3:30-5:00
Sec. 1 Sec. 2
Within APA research papers, tables and figures are a crucial part of presenting ideas and theories, distilling previous literature, and reporting your research findings. How do you design effective tables and figures, ones that make data and comparisons easy for readers to grasp? In this introductory workshop, you will learn the basics: when to use tables and figures; how to discuss them within the text of your paper; how to make the layout, titles, and headings of your tables and figures clear, consistent, readable, and concise. Using examples from student papers and from published sources, we will also analyze how effective tables and figures tell stories and make arguments about data.
•
Stuck on citation format?
•
Know that you need help writing clear, concise sentences?
•
Want information on writing a résumé, cover letter, or personal statement?
•
Want to learn the basics of writing a literature review, grant proposal, annotated bibliography, research poster, or scientific report?
•
Have a research paper looming, and you’re not sure where to start?
The Writer’s Handbook is an extensive online resource that covers academic and professional writing, the writing process and structure, writing style, grammar and punctuation, and citation format. At any time of the day or night, you can find information, guidance, examples, exercises, and even handouts on these topics and many more.
writing.wisc.edu/handbook writing.wisc.edu
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UNDERGRADS, GRAD STUDENTS, INSTRUCTORS & STAFF
Letters, Résumés & Applications Writing Résumés and Cover Letters for Undergrads Wednesday 9/18 Thursday 10/31
4:30-5:45 4:30-5:45
Sec. 1 Sec. 2
When applying for internships, leadership opportunities, on-campus employment, and your first job out of college, make your credentials stand out above the crowd. Come to this workshop to learn how your résumé and cover letter can help you show employers your best self. We’ll discuss résumé content and design, as well as what cover letters should address, so you can apply for positions with confidence. Feel free to bring your own résumé and/or cover letter to discuss as an example.
Writing Résumés and Cover Letters for Graduate Students and Returning Adults* Thursday 10/24 Monday 12/2
3:30-5:00 3:00-4:30
Sec. 1 Sec. 2
If you have completed your Bachelor’s degree or you have several years of work experience under your belt, then this résumé and cover letter workshop is for you. We’ll review résumé content and design, discuss the best ways to align your qualifications with the position description, and learn how to build an effective argument in your cover letter, persuading decision-makers that you are the best person for the job. Please bring your own résumé and cover letter to discuss. *Note: If you are applying for academic/faculty positions, please attend our separate “Academic CVs” and “Cover Letters for the Academic Job Market” workshops.
Personal Statements for Graduate Health Professions Programs Thursday 12/5
4:00-5:30
Sec. 1
Designed for those applying to professional health programs, this workshop will share insights for writing personal statements—ones that create a compelling portrait of yourself and give a sense of who you are as an individual, a student, and a future health professional. There will be time to review some examples and answer your questions about this important piece of writing.
Writing Personal Statements for Law School Applications Wednesday 9/18
3:30-5:00
Sec. 1
Designed for those applying to law school, this workshop will consider general principles for writing convincing and persuasive personal statements—ones that engage and resonate with their readers, avoid clichés, and earn those acceptance letters! There will be time to discuss some successful, well-written examples, as well.
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Peace Corps Application/Reapplication Workshop: Writing the Résumé and Motivation Statement Monday 9/16
3:30-5:00
Sec. 1
Co-led by a Writing Center instructor and a Peace Corps recruiter, this workshop will walk you through the Peace Corps application process, briefly discuss the expectations of a federal résumé, and help you draw on your experiences to write an effective Peace Corps motivation statement.
Writing Application Essays and Statements of Purpose for Graduate School Tuesday 9/24 Wednesday 10/16 Friday 11/15
3:30-5:00 3:30-5:00 1:00-2:30
Sec. 1 Sec. 2 Sec. 3
For those applying to masters and doctoral programs in the sciences, social sciences, humanities, or the arts, we’ll explore principles for writing convincing application essays, share tips for highlighting your undergraduate work, and inspire you to make the most of this opportunity to shine.
Undergrads: Thinking of Graduate School? Since writing plays a large part in all graduate programs, we highly suggest taking on a large writing project in your junior and/or senior year. One of the best ways to work on large projects is with help—and that’s where our writing groups (see page 6) come in. There are also research opportunities, such as the Hilldale and Holstrom Research Fellowships (page 6), which the Writing Center would love to help you apply for. See our workshop above. Finally, there are helpful workshops on applying for graduate school and professional programs. See workshop info above for more information.
writing.wisc.edu
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GRADUATE & PROFESSIONAL STUDENTS
On the Academic Job Market Writing Statements of Teaching Philosophy Tuesday 9/17 Monday 10/14
4:00-5:30 3:00-4:30
Sec. 1 Sec. 2
In this workshop, you will get a chance to read and discuss sample statements of teaching philosophy. We’ll talk about the purpose of the statement (“What should I communicate through this document?”), its formal conventions (“How should I organize it? What examples should I use?”), and how to craft a statement that genuinely captures your approach to teaching and learning.
Writing Statements of Current and Future Research Friday 9/20 Thursday 10/31 Wednesday 12/4
12:30-2:00 Sec. 1 3:00-4:30 Sec. 2 3:00-4:30 Sec. 3
Come to this workshop to learn how to write an effective statement about your current and future research. We’ll critically analyze some sample statements and consider what experts recommend yours should include.
Composing the All-Important Cover Letter Friday 9/20 Tuesday 10/1 Tuesday 10/29
2:00-3:30 4:00-5:30 4:00-5:30
Sec. 1 Sec. 2 Sec. 3
The cover letter is where you can make the clearest, most direct case for how you are the most qualified candidate for an academic position. This workshop will introduce you to effective structures and strategies in cover letter writing. Participants will have a chance to look at and discuss sample letters, and do some drafting/revising of their own.
Writing an Effective Academic CV Friday 9/13 Tuesday 10/15
2:00-3:30 4:00-5:30
Sec. 1 Sec. 2
In this workshop, we’ll discuss how audience, purpose, and discipline-specific conventions impact a CV’s effectiveness. In the process, we’ll share strategies for drafting and strengthening your own CV.
Writing Diversity Statements for Academic Jobs Tuesday 9/17 Friday 10/11
2:30-4:00 Sec. 1 12:30-2:00 Sec. 2
Diversity statements are a new and increasingly common addition to academic job applications. Join us for a workshop on writing a diversity statement that demonstrates to search committees how your teaching, research, and service will enhance diversity and equity efforts on their campus. We’ll discuss what a diversity statement is, study samples from across disciplines to identify effective strategies, and begin crafting rough drafts. Page 14
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GRADUATE & PROFESSIONAL STUDENTS
Refine Your Presentation Skills You’re Researching What? Crafting a 3-Minute Talk That Appeals to the Public Thursday 10/10
4:00-5:30
Sec. 1
Communicating your research to a non-specialist audience is an essential career skill, whether you’re preparing for job interviews, networking at a conference, or just trying to explain to family and friends what you do with your time. This workshop, sponsored by the Writing Center and the Graduate School Office of Professional Development, will help graduate students from all disciplines to prepare an accessible, intriguing three-minute talk about their research. If you’re interested in learning how to craft a concise, general explanation of your research, or if you plan to participate in the 3MT® Three-Minute Thesis competition, this workshop is for you.
Developing and Delivering Conference Presentations Tuesday 10/1 Wednesday 11/13
2:30-4:00 3:30-5:00
Sec. 1 Sec. 2
This workshop will hone your skills for planning, organizing, and delivering presentations for scholarly audiences, including incorporating visual aids and preparing for the Q&A.
How to Make Presentation Slides Clear and Dynamic Wednesday 10/2 Tuesday 11/5
2:00-3:30 2:00-3:30
Sec. 1 Sec. 2
On their own, oral presentations can sometimes feel dry and underwhelming. This workshop digs into how using slides to emphasize key points can enhance your presentation by making it more dynamic, interesting, and compelling. We will focus on three main areas of visual composition: incorporating graphics and animations; balancing text, image, and blank space; and connecting your message to the audience. While we will focus on using Google Slides, the core principles we discuss are relevant for all types of presentation software (e.g. PowerPoint, Prezi).
Creating Research Posters Wednesday 10/30
3:30-5:00
Sec. 1
If you need to create a research poster, this workshop is for you! In this planning workshop, you’ll analyze sample posters and discuss a sevenstep process for making an effective research poster. DoIT offers additional workshops where you’ll experiment with Adobe Illustrator (or other programs) to begin designing your own research poster. Please consult the Writing Center website for more information about DoIT’s design courses.
writing.wisc.edu
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GRADUATE & PROFESSIONAL STUDENTS
Enhance Your Academic Writing Writing Literature Reviews of Published Research Tuesday 10/8 3:30-5:00 Sec. 1 Wednesday 11/6 3:00-4:30 Sec. 2 This workshop is for those who need to write a review that brings together many different texts. Join us as we practice developing and organizing themes from your research, discuss strategies for showing the argument of your lit review, and peruse samples from various disciplines.
Researching and Writing Literature Reviews in the Sciences Wednesday 10/30 12:00-1:30 Sec. 1 Join instructors from the Writing Center and Steenbock Library to analyze lit reviews in the sciences that bring together many different research publications. You’ll consider approaches for focusing your topic, searching for papers and publications, reading critically, developing themes, and organizing your material. Workshop will be held at Steenbock Library.
Writing Graduate Research Proposals Friday 9/27 12:00-1:30 Sec. 1 Thursday 11/7 2:30-4:00 Sec. 2 Roll up your sleeves for this hands-on workshop! We’ll explore ways to get a thesis or dissertation started; to organize your introduction, literature review, and methods sections; and to obtain useful feedback.
Learning and Integrating Common Features of Professional Research Writing Monday 9/23 Thursday 10/31
3:00-4:30 2:00-3:30
Sec. 1 Sec. 2
Are you interested in discovering how professional research writing is structured in the natural and social sciences? In this workshop for graduate students and advanced undergraduates, we will unpack misconceptions about research writing and call attention to frequently used words and sentence structures within specialized disciplines. Learning the features of your professional discourse community will help you better meet expectations for getting your own research published. Please bring short drafts of your own research or work with one of the supplied examples for applying what you’ve learned. *Note: You will benefit the most from this workshop if you’re confident you already have a firm grasp of English grammar. If you would like to refresh your grammar skills, check out our Grammar workshops!
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Paraphrasing Like a Pro: How to Successfully “Use Your Own Words” Friday 10/11 Wednesday 11/13
1:00-2:30 2:00-3:30
Sec. 1 Sec. 2
Do you struggle to convey information from sources in your own words? Are you not sure when to paraphrase? This workshop will introduce paraphrasing techniques and show you how to effectively embed paraphrased material from any source (such as articles, books, and more). Whether you’re new to researched writing or just need a review, put that thesaurus down and come join us for hands-on practice! This workshop is open to undergraduates and graduate students working on all types of research writing.
An Outdoor Writer’s Retreat: Walking, Thinking, and Writing Friday 9/27 Friday 10/11
1:00-5:00 Sec. 1 12:00-4:00 Sec. 2
Does relaxing between drafts seem impossible, or even counter-productive? Do you find you think better when moving instead of sitting at your computer? Are you interested in new ways to promote creativity in your writing process? Come to this workshop—designed for writers of all levels—to reflect on your current writing process, engage in a relaxing 45-minute group walk along the Lakeshore Path, and then buckle down to write with a refreshed body and mind. You’ll gain first-hand experience in learning why some of the greatest writers of all time, literary and science-based, attest to walking as a crucial part of their drafting and revision processes. In this alternative-style writer’s retreat, we will explore ways that walking can help focus your attention, build new connections between ideas, reflect on your writerly process, and take advantage of your surrounding environment to take control of your writing.
A Writer’s Retreat Wednesday 10/9 Saturday 10/26 Monday 11/11 Thursday 11/14 Saturday 11/30 Tuesday 12/3
3:00-7:00 9:00-1:00 3:00-7:00 5:00-9:00 9:00-1:00 6:30-10:30
Sec. Sec. Sec. Sec. Sec. Sec.
1 (Ebling) 2 3 (Ebling) 4 5 6 (Gordon)*for undergrads
It’s time to get moving with your term paper, dissertation, thesis, novel, research project, or other major writing project. And time is exactly what a writer’s retreat offers. Retreat participants will engage in brief goal-setting exercises followed by time to write, with Writing Center staff on hand for consultation. Registration is limited to 20 participants for each section.
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GRADUATE & PROFESSIONAL STUDENTS
Support for Dissertations & Long Projects Graduate Writing Groups: Structured Writing Time for Large Projects At the Writing Center, we believe that community and accountability, along with setting achievable goals, play a significant role in completing major writing projects. Past participants in our weekly writer’s groups have finished chapters, articles, and have even defended their dissertations! Since the Writing Center wants to help you achieve these milestones, we offer graduate students space and time each week to maximize their productivity. Each three-hour meeting begins with goal setting and ends with brief discussions about writing strategies. The bulk of each meeting, however, will be devoted to structured writing time so that you can make substantial progress on your writing projects. Please sign up by September 15 at https://go.wisc.edu/38712d. See the Writing Center’s website for more info. Questions? Email Hyonbin at hchoi57@wisc.edu. Upon taking the survey, the writing group coordinator will select members for the groups, which will begin Monday, September 23, and run through Friday, December 6. Graduate Writing Groups take place on the following days: •
Monday morning 9:00 am-12:00 pm
•
Monday evening 5:30-8:30
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Tuesday morning 9:00 am-12:00 pm
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Thursday morning 9:00 am-12:00 pm
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Friday morning 9:00 am-12:00 pm (drop-in group)
•
Online asynchronous group (times TBD)
Please note that the Friday group is a drop-in group. Graduate and professional students working on any writing projects are welcome to come when they can.
UW-Madison Dissertation Writing Camps Facilitated by senior Writing Center staff, these week-long camps provide participants with intensive, focused time to write and revise their dissertation chapters in a supportive atmosphere alongside other writers. Those selected to participate will have multiple opportunities to share writing goals, experiment with various writing strategies, and receive feedback on their work. For information on the next dissertation writing camps to be offered in January, please visit grad.wisc.edu/pd/dissertation.
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Writing with Scrivener: Software to Keep Your Long Projects Organized Tuesday 10/15
2:00-4:00
Sec. 1
Are you working on a large writing project? You’re not alone if you struggle to keep your sources, notes, and drafts organized. In this workshop, co-taught by the Writing Center and DoIT, you will get training in Scrivener software and explore ways it can facilitate your thinking and writing.
Getting Your Dissertation off the Ground—Parts 1 and 2 These workshops are aimed at helping dissertators stay on track, from proposal to completion.
Part 1: Writing the Proposal Thursday 10/3
3:00-4:30
Sec. 1
This workshop gives new dissertators an opportunity to learn more about strategic approaches to choosing a topic, selecting a committee, and writing the dissertation proposal. Participants will have time to ask questions and even do some exploratory writing.
Part 2: Writing the First Chapter Wednesday 10/30
2:00-3:30
Sec. 1
This workshop guides new dissertators through strategies for managing the dissertation and employing key action plans for drafting chapters, seeking feedback, working through writing challenges, and staying motivated to cross the finish line.
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INSTRUCTORS, ACADEMIC STAFF & FACULTY
Approaches to Improve Teaching & Learning Responding to and Evaluating Student Writing: Part 1 and 2 These two workshops focus on best practices for responding to student writing. Each workshop covers a different facet of responding, including (1) one-to-one student-teacher conferences and peer review and (2) approaches to written feedback and evaluation (using e-learning tools like Canvas’s rubrics and SpeedGrader). Because they build upon each other, we recommend attending both workshops, but you are welcome to attend just one.
Part 1: Maximizing Your Time with Conferences and Peer Review Monday 9/16
4:30-6:00
Sec. 1
Research on writing across the disciplines shows that instructors can save time and enhance student engagement by facilitating discussions about student writing in-progress. This workshop outlines two effective and manageable approaches for doing so: (1) one-to-one conferencing and (2) peer review. We’ll discuss how to prepare for both activities and highlight best practices for helping students develop their ideas, plan revisions, and offer constructive feedback to peers. Finally, we’ll look at successful models from across the university, and participants will leave with a plan for integrating conferencing and peer review into a course.
Part 2: Responding to and Evaluating Student Writing…without Getting Buried Under the Paper Load Wednesday 9/25
4:30-6:30
Sec. 1
This workshop focuses on giving feedback that supports students in the writing process. We’ll look at current research about instructor feedback and practice different forms of responding effectively and efficiently to student papers. We’ll also explore various tools for evaluating student writing in Canvas, UWMadison’s learning management system. Participants will leave with a deeper understanding of Canvas’ SpeedGrader tool, which can be used to annotate drafts, create rubrics for writing assignments, and respond efficiently to short writing assignments, even in large lecture classes. Before the workshop wraps up, there will be time for you to plan for using Canvas in your own classes.
Creating and Sequencing Effective Writing Assignments Thursday 9/12
2:00-3:30
Sec. 1
What can you do to get great work from your students? Design great assignments! In this workshop, we’ll share five proven strategies for designing writing assignments in any discipline and for sequencing those assignments to accomplish course goals and outcomes. We’ll also discuss samples of effective writing assignments, consider how assignment design can help you respond to students’ work more efficiently, and draft a writing assignment for your classes.
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Working with Multilingual Writers and Fostering Their Success Thursday 10/3
1:00-2:30
Sec. 1
In this workshop, we’ll discuss strategies and approaches for helping multilingual students (for whom English is a second language) succeed with writing tasks in your discipline-specific courses. We’ll consider various pedagogical philosophies about evaluating and assessing multilingual students’ written work, with a particular focus on the tension between upholding academic standards while allowing for some non-standard English. We’ll then articulate best practices for creating successful writing assignments and responding to students’ work, with an emphasis on how to determine errors to mark and how to formulate feedback that will help students revise. Finally, we’ll look at models of effective feedback and explore how online programs can help writers assess their own work and correct patterns of error.
Writing Recommendation Letters Tuesday 11/5
3:00-4:30
Sec. 1
Do you feel unprepared when asked to write letters of recommendation for your students? Are you uncertain about how much to say, how many details to include, or what tone to take? In this workshop, we’ll look at a sample of letters and we’ll offer advice about writing letters that are honest and effective.
The UW-Madison Writing Center's 50th Anniversary Celebrating a Strong Culture of Writing for Campus and Community Friday, November 8, 12-4 P.M., 6191 Helen C. White Hall, 600 N. Park St. Join fellow alumni, community members, current students, staff, and faculty in celebration of the Writing Center’s 50 years of writing support on campus and in the Madison community. Learn more about the Writing Center’s many programs, meet the staff and instructors who make these programs thrive, share your experiences with the Writing Center, and try a writing activity with Bucky as your guide. All are welcome! For more info, please see writing.wisc.edu.
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INSTRUCTORS, ACADEMIC STAFF & FACULTY
Instructor Guide for Our Programs & Services Faculty, Instructional Staff, & TAs: Your Influence Matters We often hear that an instructor’s recommendation encouraged students to use the Writing Center. Here are a few ways that you can help us reach your students: 1. Encourage your students to make an appointment at the Writing Center, its satellite locations, or via email/skype (if students are off-campus or have circumstances that make traveling to campus difficult). 2. Add info about the Writing Center to your syllabi. 3. Recommend workshops to your undergraduate and graduate/professional students. We offer workshops in academic writing, writing with new media, grammar and style, letters and applications—and much more. 4. Invite the Writing Center to visit your class. We offer outreach services and a thriving undergraduate Writing Fellows program. See information to the right on the Writing Fellows program and visit our website for more information. 5. Add links to our Writer’s Handbook in your assignments. There you’ll find guidance and examples in areas such as academic writing, documentation, thesis statements, writing professional letters, etc. Many of the pages have downloadable PDFs of the materials. 6. And if you need instructional support, please reach out to our Writing Across the Curriculum (WAC) program, which runs the instructor workshops on these pages and offers additional training, help, and advice. You can find more information to the right as well as online at writing.wisc.edu/ wac.
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The Undergraduate Writing Fellows Program The Undergraduate Writing Fellows Program brings talented undergraduates and committed faculty together in a cooperative effort to improve student writing. The program prepares selected students from a wide range of majors to serve as peer writing tutors, called Writing Fellows. Fellows work closely with professors and students on writing in a variety of courses across the College of Letters and Science. The program enables accomplished and enthusiastic student writers to share their writing skills and intellectual curiosity with other undergraduates. By placing undergraduates in positions of intellectual leadership and creating new opportunities for intellectual exchange between and among students and faculty, the Writing Fellows Program helps fulfill the University’s teaching mission and seeks to build a community of undergraduates dedicated to uniting intellectual inquiry with service to the University. If you have any questions about the program, please contact Emily Hall, Director of the Writing Fellows Program (ebhall@wisc.edu).
The Writing Across the Curriculum Program The Writing Across the Curriculum Program is eager to help all instructors in all disciplines think about creative and effective ways to incorporate writing and speaking assignments into your courses at all levels. We offer one-on-one consultations, multiple WAC workshops, and instructional resources with plenty of advice and examples of successful writing and speaking assignments drawn from courses across UW-Madison. As your course unfolds, you may face challenges and want advice beyond what’s available online. We can help! Our staff would be happy to meet with you to discuss pedagogical strategies for teaching with writing and to share additional material. For more information and assistance, please contact the co-directors of the WAC program, Emily Hall at ebhall@wisc.edu or Nancy Linh Karls at nkarls@ wisc.edu.
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Register online for all workshops at writing.wisc.edu
Writing Center services are offered free of charge to all UW-Madison undergraduate and graduate students, post-docs, staff, and faculty through the support of the College of Letters and Science. More detailed workshop descriptions, updates, and online registration can be found at writing.wisc.edu. Unless noted, workshops are held in or near the Writing Center: 6171 Helen C. White Hall 600 North Park Street 608.263.1992