1.1 Explain what is meant by the term ‘academic research and writing.’

Assessment

To achieve a ‘pass’ for this unit, learners must provide evidence to demonstrate that they have fulfilled all the learning outcomes and meet the standards specified by all assessment criteria.

Indicative Reading List

Bailey, S. (2017) Academic Writing: A Handbook for International Learners 5th edition, Routledge, London Cotrell, S. (2019) The Study Skills Handbook 5th edition, MacMillan, London

Additional Resources

Journal of Academic Research Journal of Academic Writing

An Intermediate Guide to Writing in English for University Study

Sample Answer of Academic Writing and Research Skills

Introduction

Academic writing and research are central parts of higher education. They give students the ability to collect, analyse, and present information in a way that is clear, fair, and based on evidence. Research is the process of exploring questions in an organised manner, while academic writing is the way this knowledge is communicated. Both are connected, as strong research supports strong writing.

This assignment explains what academic research and writing involve, including the main conventions and different research types. It also looks at the process of research, the use of primary and secondary data, and how sources can be compared. Critical thinking is discussed as an essential skill, along with its different techniques and benefits for study. Finally, the work shows how to build a reliable argument using valid reasoning.

LO1 Understand the concept and purpose of academic research and writing.

1.1 Explain what is meant by the term ‘academic research and writing.’

Academic research is the organised study of a subject with the aim of adding knowledge, testing ideas, or solving problems. It is not simply reading about a topic but involves searching for trustworthy information, analysing it, and drawing conclusions. Academic writing is the way in which this research is shared. It follows rules of structure and language, ensuring that ideas are explained in a logical and formal style.

The main purpose is to allow students to present knowledge in a way that is reliable, evidence-based, and free from plagiarism. Academic research and writing together build skills such as clear communication, critical analysis, and problem-solving, which are valuable for both study and professional life.

1.2 Explain different academic writing conventions.

Academic writing follows conventions that make it different from everyday writing. These include:

• Writing in a formal style, avoiding slang or personal language.

• Building work in paragraphs that start with a topic sentence and flow logically.

• Using evidence and references to back up points.

• Paraphrasing instead of copying, showing understanding of sources.

• Respecting word limits, which demonstrate the ability to be concise.

These conventions support clarity, fairness, and professionalism. They also protect against plagiarism by giving credit to original authors.

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