Monash College Handbook

EFFECTIVE WRITING 2: PROFESSIONAL WRITING (MCD6040)

Purpose

This subject is designed to develop writing skills appropriate to work situations. In the modern workplace, the generic, transferable or "soft" skills of communication are highly valued, and the ability to be able to write well is one of the most important of these skills.

Prerequisites

Nil. However, native English speakers or those for whom English is not their first language may need to apply themselves to study a body of print and online resources in order to be able fully participate in the unit and achieve a good grade.

Learning outcomes

After completing this subject, a student should be able to:

1. Identify basic grammar and punctuation faults in documents.
2. Use a Plain English style in writing where appropriate.
3. Better understand document planning and design techniques.
4. Apply basic editing and proofreading techniques to documents.
5. Demonstrate effective research skills.
6. Create letters and memos for a variety of professional situations.
7. Create effective emails.
8. Prepare copy for online communications.
9. Create effective short and long reports.
10. Prepare effective job application letters and résumés.

Assessment

Class test - 30%
Minor assignment - 15%
Report - 30%
Oral presentation - 15%
Participation - 10%

Students must be able to demonstrate tertiary-level prowess not only in the content of the documents they produce, but in process aspects such as grammar, punctuation and spelling.

Disclaimer