Academic Writing unit (XAB021)

Introduction

In this unit, you will develop the academic writing and research skills essential for university study across a wide variety of discipline areas. You will learn to write clearly and formally, engage critically with academic sources, and structure both research reports and essays effectively. The unit covers key aspects of academic style, paragraph structure, referencing, and argumentation. Through scaffolded assessments—including a short writing task, a research report, and an academic essay—you will build confidence in producing well-structured, evidence-based writing. Peer review and self-editing strategies will help you refine your work. By the end of this unit, you will be prepared to meet the various writing demands of university study.

Summary

Unit name	Academic Writing
Unit code	XAB021
Credit points	12.5
College/School	University College
Discipline	Pathways
Coordinator	Doctor Dominic Lennard
Available as an elective?	Yes
Delivered By	University of Tasmania
Level	Foundation or Enabling

Availability

Specific information on 2027 unit availability will be available in August

Learning Outcomes

• Write in an academic style.
• Locate and use academic sources for writing at university.
• Communicate according to the conventions of academic formats.
• Demonstrate analytical thinking skills in relation to academic writing.

Fee Information

2027 fee information will be available in August.

Teaching

Assessment	Peer Review (10%)|Short Writing Task (15%)|Research Report (35%)|Academic Essay (40%)
Timetable	View the lecture timetable | View the full unit timetable

Textbooks

Required	Required readings will be listed in the unit outline prior to the start of classes.

The University reserves the right to amend or remove courses and unit availabilities, as appropriate.