Module contents

Module 1: Effective writing: strategies and principles

This module operates as a foundation to the course. The skills and strategies learned here are applicable to all work-based writing tasks. It covers:

• defining your statement of purpose;
• analysing your audience;
• overcoming barriers to effective communication;
• adopting a writing strategy, framework, and timeframe:
• prewriting
• organizing
• drafting
• macro- and micro-editing
• proofreading
• writing coherent sentences;
• writing well organized paragraphs.

Module 1 assignment

The assignment has two parts:

• analysing your strengths and weaknesses in writing based on a self-selected writing sample
• redrafting a set of written extracts from ILO documents

Module 2a: General office correspondence and records

This module gives you guidelines for, and practice in, writing everyday office correspondence and records. It covers:

• trends in office correspondence
• types of office correspondence:
• memoranda
• letters
• e-mails
• types of meeting records
• mission reports
• minutes of meetings
• notes for the file
• reports of meetings and discussions

Module 2a assignment

You will compile a portfolio of model office correspondence.

Module 2b: Report writing

This module takes you, step by step, through the process of writing a report. It covers:

• an approach to writing reports
• skills required by report writers:
• writing introductions
• writing conclusions
• writing recommendations
• writing executive summaries
• using graphics
• writing to ILO specifications (e.g., style guides, report templates)

Module 2b assignment

You will produce a short work-based report, including an executive summary.

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