The purpose of all language is to communicate (Essberger 2015). In fact, many writers struggle with effective communication. In academia, writers encounter difficulties with grammar, comma splices, and punctuation. These and other writing errors can be corrected; accordingly, by taking effective measures, practicing regularly, and seeking help. There are few distinctions between written and spoken discourse. According to Khairunnisa Mohammad, “Written discourse is more structurally complex and more elaborate than spoken discourse” (Mohammad 2012). As graduate students, we learn to be critical thinkers, and to be rational in our understanding of a subject matter. Critical thinking helps graduate student gain the necessary tools to engage in reflective and independent thinking (2015). Furthermore, critical thinking offers the ability to engage in self-reflection and examine the importance of ideas.

The article “Helping students meet the challenges of academic writing”, devotes a paragraph to struggling students. “By internalizing and taking up aspects of negative instructor discourses” quotes L.A. Fernsten and M. Reda “some students may come to see themselves as ineffectual writers.” This is particularly true for learners with lower levels of self-esteem, who may easily get discourage by criticism. While this issue concerns scholars of all backgrounds, faculty members should make an effort to recognize those students at higher risk of becoming ineffectual writers.

Mohammad, K. (2012, April 27). Differences between spoken and written discourse. Retrieved October 1, 2015.

Josef Essberger, J. (n.d.). Speaking versus Writing. Retrieved October 2, 2015.

Helping students meet the challenges of academic writing

Linda A. Fernsten , Mary Reda

Vol. 16, Iss. 2, 2011

What is critical thinking? (n.d.). Retrieved October 2, 2015.