Join the academic conversation
Academic English reflects the the work that academics do –including professors, authors, researchers and scientists. This work is to advance the academic conversation by presenting new ideas for others to critique as well as critiquing the work of their colleagues.
Here are the skills that college professors expect from students:
We can help you prepare for college by practicing these same skills: Reading and analyzing challenging material; conveying your impressions about what you’ve read; and understanding what your professors are looking for when they evaluate your performance in class, on papers and projects, and in exams.
Most important, our instructors will try to ensure that the guidance you receive is in line with the actual requirements of your degree program, as well as the broader communications protocols and quality standards of your university.
The scope and pace of the course is adjusted through the SP Self Assignment system. SP instructors typically meet with students in person at least once a week with an additional weekly consultation conducted online. The overall pace and meeting schedule is flexible.
How does it work?
High school students
INPUT: Once we know a little more about your intended major and the universities you will apply to, we will help you identify one or academic texts (such as a scientific journal article or a text book chapter) to read. The texts will be relevant to your field and appropriate for your reading level. Your instructor will accompany you as you move through the readings at your own pace.
Along the way, you’ll be given practice in writing summaries and outlines to keep track of the new material. You’ll also be challenged to insert yourself into the discussion: How does this new knowledge relate to your previous training? What aspects are most interesting to you and why?
OUTPUT:Your “exam” will consist of a series of open-ended essay questions as well as a longer (one-two page) response or reaction paper. The focus is on your ability to communicate what you have learned using academically appropriate language and writing conventions.
College students
INPUT: Much as you would in an actual college course, you will first reach an agreement with your instructor with regard to the genre of academic writing that you attempt, as well as the topic and scope. Next, your instructor will identify appropriate sources for you to read. They’ll also show you various tools you can use to keep track of what your read as you go, so it will be easier to write up later.
OUTPUT: Whether you are aiming to produce an abstract, literature review of full research paper, you will be encouraged to produce a rough draft as soon as possible so that the editing process may begin. The aim is to produce a polished piece of academic writing on a topic that is relevant to your field and personally interesting to you.
How can SP Academic English courses help me prepare for the TOEFL & IELTS?
First, the SP Self Assignment system gives you ample speaking and listening practice as you work with your instructor to agree on appropriate academic tasks.
Next, you will get substantial practice reading challenging texts that matter to you.
Finally, you will get plenty of writing experience, as you will move your paper or other piece of writing through the writing production cycle, from planning and research to drafting and revising.
Meanwhile, if you feel that you are weak in a particular area of the IELTS or TOEFL, you may include up to 10 hours of test prep tutoring as part of your custom SP Academic English course.