Module 1: Examples of Learning Objectives Handout

This handout is associated with the assignment Module 1: AWC Development Project Component 1 -
Course Objectives.

EXAMPLES OF OBJECTIVES FOR COURSES USING

DIFFERENT APPROACHES TO TEACHING ACADEMIC
WRITING:
No matter what type of teaching approach is used in an academic writing course, course-level learning
objectives should be written using key verbs to follow “Students will be able to…”.

Example objectives for a course focused on rhetorical modes

• Write a descriptive essay
• Use comparison/contrast language in an essay
• Identify features of an academic argument and apply them in writing

Example objectives for a course focused on process writing

• Use elements of the writing process like invention and revision to improve writing
• Gather ideas, develop and clearly state ideas, organize, draft, revise, and edit their writing

Example objectives for a genre-based course

• Analyze and apply the conventions of a lab report
• Identify and apply the conventions of a college application essay
• Use relevant genre features in writing a personal narrative

Example objectives for specific communication skills and modes

Critical Thinking and Reading

• Read and think critically and express critical ideas
• Read, understand, and explain different types of texts
• Analyze and interpret text using different approaches

Source Use
• Locate and evaluate credible sources and incorporate source material responsibly with citation and
documentation
• Use summary, paraphrasing, and quotations effectively to support their own work with outside
information

© 2021 by Iowa State University. Developing and Teaching Academic Writing Examples of Learning
Objectives Handout for the Online Professional English Network (OPEN), sponsored by the U.S.
Department of State with funding provided by the U.S. government and administered by FHI 360.
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Formatting
• Properly format in-text citations in MLA or APA style
• Properly format the list of full references

Style and editing

• Match language choices and expressions to situation and audience depending on mode, media, genre
• Proofread, edit, and correct their drafts for common errors of syntax, mechanics, and word usage

Oral Communication
• Provide oral feedback on peer work
• Contribute to oral and written dialogue in small groups
• Share ideas in large group discussion

Following assignment expectations

• Understand the basic demands of written assignments in all their courses
• Format written work following assignment instructions

Reflective practice
• Analyze their own learning based on the critical reading and thinking processes and the resulting written
product as evidence
• Set future written and oral communication goals