Language classes for all three LM degree courses (LM-37, LM-38, and LM-94) will prepare students to write abstracts following university standards and deliver presentations in academic contexts, such as conferences and seminars. 

In this course, students will learn how to analyse their audience and the context of their presentation. They will also work on strategies for sourcing reliable information, citing sources and writing clear, concise abstracts for academic purposes. A significant portion of the course will cover how to structure a presentation, starting with an introduction, using transitions for cohesion and coherence, and concluding with a call to action.

The course will cover rhetorical techniques and elements such as figures of speech, tone, and style. Students will work on improving body language, vocal variety, and the use of visual aids to make their presentations more engaging. Practical elements such as managing stage fright, peer reviews, rehearsal strategies, and self-evaluation exercises will help students prepare for and present in academic environments.

Students will also learn academic abstract writing. In particular, they will learn how to write concise and informative abstracts that reflect the content and significance of their work. They will be guided through the process of summarising key points and highlighting the purpose, methodology, and main findings of their research. Particular emphasis will be placed on adapting abstracts to specific academic contexts, such as conferences and journal submissions.

Students will be guided in writing an abstract of their exam presentation (approximately 250-300 words), which must be corrected and approved before the oral presentation. 

Presentation abstracts must be submitted in .doc/ .docx format. Other formats, such as PDF, will not be accepted. A deadline for submitting the abstract will be posted on this website.

The teachers will provide course materials.

Students may sign up for one lettorato in the first or second semester. Due to the numerous requests for the first semester courses, priority will be given to those students who have passed their first-year Lingua exam and those intending to take the exam in January. However, they are reminded that they must pass the lettorato exam before taking the Lingua exam.

Students who cannot attend (and also those who do) are strongly recommended to download and study this guide to writing abstracts and giving presentations.

Rob Moscaliuc October 2024