Writing Center

Want to be a stronger writer? A better reader?

Located on the second floor of the Hanley Library, the Writing Center has experienced faculty consultants available to help student writers of all levels and abilities at any stage of the writing process, from brainstorming and drafting to revision, editing, formatting, and achieving stylistic punch and sophistication. Common areas of focus include thesis statements, essay organization, word choice, recognizing pattern errors in grammar and punctuation, evaluating and using sources, managing in-text citations, and critical reading skills.

Make an Appointment with the Writing Center

What to expect when you come into the Center

Bring your assignment sheet to the visit.
Your consultant will ask you questions. Be prepared to discuss your writing.
Bring your draft at any stage, or just come with ideas you'd like to talk through.
Visits last 30-60 minutes. Please do not schedule more than two sessions in one day or more than two hours in one week.

Your consultant will help you analyze, among other things

Thesis
Content
Focus
Organization and Structure
Citations and References
Grammar, Punctuation, and Spelling
Word choice, etc.

Working with students who are English language learners	The Writing Center has useful articles on working effectively with students whose first language is a language other than English. Addressing the Learning Needs of Speakers of English as a Second Language written by Writing Center consultant and ESL specialist, Gary Tessmer is a good place to start.
Framework for Success in Postsecondary Writing	For a great resource about helping college students improve their writing, please check out the Council of Writing Program Administrator's "Framework for Success in Postsecondary Writing."
Sloan-C's video on course and syllabus design	View the Sloan Consortium's informative video on creating strong course goals, learning objectives, and assessments.
Vertical Writing Model	Takes you to the Vertical Writing Model of the Writing Across the Curriculum program at Appalachian State University. This model, which tracks skills students will master through each of their four years, "was designed to give students continued support for writing during their careers at Appalachian, with writing experience each year, and a structure to archive writing for both students and the university."