Resources for Students
The key focus of Writing in the Disciplines has been to provide resources and support to faculty who assign (or want to assign) writing in their courses. Much of the discussion so far has centered on how to design assignments that work, how to respond to and evaluate student writing, and how to promote active learning in the classroom.
Writing in the Disciplines is working with the First Year Experience program to design writing assignments and guidelines that will support student writers' growth. WID is happy to broaden its scope to include more direct support of student writers, a necessary new activity. We begin with a document on the role that writing plays in the workplace, "Writing at Work." Many professionals were interviewed for this article, and their responses are consistent-- regardless of what profession one enters, writing is likely to play a hugely important role.
The second document for students offered here is a list of online sites that allow hands-on work on grammar and other writing issues. The sites included here can also be used as "lab" work for your classes; that is, your instructors may require you to demonstrate that you are working on your writing needs. You may be asked to print out quizzes and worksheets you have completed online. This list will be updated periodically.
All writers seek input and suggestions from others, to give us a different perspective on our work. Sometimes your professors will arrange for you to get feedback from a peer in class. Should you want or need a tutor to help you assess and improve your writing, you can visit the Writing Center on your campus. They serve all students in all courses and are eager to work with you. For hours and procedures, visit each site.
Germantown Campus Writing and Reading Center
Rockville Campus Writing and Reading Center
Takoma Park/Silver Spring Writing and Reading Center
Good writing happens when we devote time and attention to it. Look to WID to support your writing.