This course provides public sector workers with an applied understanding of the underlying structures and mechanisms of written English, so that they may write more simply, clearly and effectively at work, and so be more fully and properly understood.

Topics include:

• the purpose of writing
• the grammar of words and sentences
• which grammar elements are most important in effective writing
• sentence style and variety
• the elements of bureaucratic language
• alternatives to jargon, cliches and pretentious language
• ways to write more concisely.

On completing this course, students should be able to:

• appreciate the importance of good written communication skills in government
• write with a clear purpose
• understand the function of words, phrases and clauses
• analyse and discuss sentence structures
• recognise the grammar of bureaucratic language
• write with more clarity and conciseness
• build good rapport with readers
• provide better quality information to decision makers
• make better use of style guides and other writing advice
• better advise staff on how to improve written communication.

Weekly exercises (in-class or homework) based on class learning 5 x 8%          40%

Correction/improvement exercises based on authentic writing samples from students' individual workplaces  (min. 500 words each )                                                                                                                              40%

Class attendance and participation                                                                      10%

Online discussion group participation                                                                   10%

One 3-hour session per week for 5 weeks, plus homework exercises and online discussion group participation. 

3 - 6pm Fridays 1, 8, 15, 22 & 29 May 2009 (Venues   TBA)

Participants must be enrolled in an ANU Certificate or Diploma of Graduate Studies, or Master of Studies, to undertake this course.

Students need to become active with ANU's WebCT or its agreed equivalent.