Writing for English Standardized Tests

The purpose of this course is for students to gain the necessary knowledge and skills to raise their writing section scores of English standardized tests, such as the TOEFL iBT, IELTS, and Eiken (Grade Pre-1 and Grade 1).

In this course, students will learn the basics of writing and gain the ability to "write English." Students can expect to gain the skills necessary to write in English for different purposes, such as in academic and professional settings. Although the goal of this course is to improve the writing section scores of English standardized tests, this course is designed to be much more than just writing test preparation.

Students will learn the basics of academic writing, practical vocabulary words, and useful written expressions throughout the semester. Additionally, class time will be allocated so that students learn how to prepare for each individual English standardized test. One class is 140 minutes, and there will be 10 class days.

This course is highly recommended to not only those who seek to improve their writing section scores but also to those who wish to learn the basics of academic writing, as well as for instructors who teach about test writing skills.

Course Description

There are three parts to each class. Each class is 140 minutes, including breaks.

1. The basics of academic writing and improvement of skills
2. Understanding and preparation for each English standardized test
3. Improving the English skills necessary for writing

Time	Part
40 minutes	The basics of academic writing Example: Writing sentences and forming paragraphs
(10 minute break)
40 minutes	Preparation for each test Example: Learning how each test is graded, and practicing how to write for one of the tests
(10 minute break)
40 minutes	Learning English for writing Example: Learning new academic vocabulary and verbs

The course is taught in English, so students can experience significant improvements to their listening, speaking, and vocabulary skills.

Instructor Comments

Many students are under the impression that "structure" is the most important factor of writing, and this might be because schools and writing textbooks are asking students to 1) write the conclusion first; and 2) provide two or three supporting reasons. Additionally, a vast majority of students think that they can perform well for the writing sections of English standardized tests because they are able to write university-level essays and term papers, which is not true. Students must realize that these are two completely different styles of writing.

Structure alone is not enough to earn a good grade for university and graduate papers, and for English standardized tests. The contents and English expressions are what makes a good essay structure.

At the same time, an essay with a good structure is logically able to deliver its content to the audience. These are unrelated to only having English ability, as these skills are shaped and affected by the writer's knowledge and way of thinking.

Writing is a skill extremely difficult to acquire. As it will take much time and since it is not a skill one can gain alone, we highly recommend taking this course if you are interested in learning about writing.

Student Comments

• I know which areas need improvements because the course contents change to address our writing weaknesses.
• The class is easy to understand and I was glad to be able to learn about the different types of writing exams.
• I never studied writing before, so there were many new discoveries and they were all helpful. I learned many different forms of transition words and also found out that passive voice is commonly used.

Course Schedule

May	9, 16, 23, 30
June	6, 13, 20, 27
July	4, 11

Steps to Attend the Program

Please follow the procedures below to attend the course.

Application Procedures

Please apply using the online application form, by phone, or in person at the university. Please feel free to contact us for any questions about course details or the application process.

• Application Form

*Depending on space availability, we may accept applications even after the deadline has passed. Please submit the application form, and we will get back to you.

The application period has ended.