PFG0057, Scientific Writing, 7.5 Hp
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Syllabus

Level

Third cycle

Subject

Biology

Grading Scale

The grade requirements within the course grading system are set out in specific criteria. These criteria must be available by the course start at the latest.

Course language

English

Entry Requirements

Objectives

To improve the theoretical knowledge and practical skills associated with writing manuscripts for scientific peer review in international journals.

Content

Major focus will be placed on basic writing skills, particularly on how to write clear and concise sentences, paragraphs and sections. The course will provide the students with a set of tools for the essential text analysis and editing needed to produce a submission ready manuscript. Lectures will also provide detailed instructions on how to structure and format each section of a scientific manuscript (justifying the IMRAD format). The class will integrate theory and practice. Directly after each theory session, students will work on the associated manuscript section via a teaching platform. Weekly assignments will be required in two primary areas: short writings specific to the studied section and analysis of model sentences and paragraphs. Weekly feedback will be provided on the short writings. By the end of the course, students will have individualized editing sheets of their most common problems and a course-created dictionary specific to their fields.

Examination Formats and Requirements for Passing the Course

Only pass or fail will be given. A pass will require attendance and the completion of course tasks.

Responsible Department/Equivalent

Department of Wildlife, Fish, & Environmental Studies

Supplementary information

Other Information

The course will be limited to a maximum of 15 students. Students should bring a manuscript to work on during the course. This may consist of no more than a title or a full first version at the start of the course, but the necessary data collection and analyses should have been completed.