Reading & Writing VI

ESL-64 Reading and Writing Level 6. At this level students are negotiating full academic texts. They should already have skills to infer and deduce unknown information from context. They should be prepared to analyze content and draw upon background knowledge to synthesize content and expound upon what they have read. An academic level of vocabulary will be intrinsic to their ability to do this. At this level, students will fine-tune their writing styles and research skills. Students continue to investigate unfamiliar academic topics, synthesize the content/stances/positions of others, and then blend it with their own developing ideas. Students continue to cite evidence in support of a position, or against a position. Students may investigate an array of contradictory evidence and then report on their findings, either taking a stance themselves or leaving it to the reader to determine. A major component of this level involves the development of a substantial research paper. Students should be encouraged to contact thier respective departments and work with an advisor in determining topics and source materials.