Writing in the Disciplines
While the University's general education program emphasizes clear written communication tactics that are broadly applicable across the curriculum, disciplines and programs often have specific expectations that students must learn. Writing in Biology requires a different set of skills than writing in Accounting, which is different from writing in Philosophy or Political Science or Music. Instructors teach these skills to enhance student communication skills. As students move up in their degree programs, they acquire and deepen their understanding of the professional expectations they face in the field.
Students in general may find it useful to browse specific expectations and study examples of student writing. Good examples can often be found in the Library archives as a result of a range of writing contests sponsored across the campus. One of the most important for first year students is the duPont-Ball Library’s Evans C Johnson Research Award, given annually to a first year student who has produced a research essay that demonstrates outstanding research skills. The R. Neil Scott Research Prize, also given by the duPont-Ball Library, is awarded for outstanding research skills in the area of business or economics.
Departments and programs often offer essay contests and awards. Check this list of the currently available student writing awards.
During the senior capstone experience, students can archive their work with the Library. Check here for examples of senior level work.
Art
• Short Guide to Writing About Art: Reference N7476 .B37 2008
Biological Sciences
Business
• Business Writer's Handbook Reference HF5718.3 .A47 2009
Chemistry
• The ACS Style Guide: Effective Communication of Scientific Information Reference QD8.5 .A25 2006
Government Information
• The Complete Guide to Citing Government Information Resources: A Manual for Social Science & Business Research:
Ready Reference (@ Circulation Desk) J9.5 .G37 2002
Journalism
• Associated Press Stylebook and Briefing on Media Law: Reference PN4783 .A83 2007
Languages and Literature
• MLA Handbook for Writers of Research Papers: Ready Reference (@ Circulation Desk) LB2369 .G53 2016
Law
Mathematics
Medicine
• American Medical Association Manual of Style, 10th ed.: Ready Reference (@ Circulation Desk) R119 .A533 2007
Political Science
• APSA Style Manual for Political Science: Reference JA86 .A52 2006
Psychology
• Publication Manual of the American Psychological Association: Ready Reference (@ Circulation Desk) BF76.7 .P83
Sciences
• Scientific Style and Format: The CSE Manual for Authors, Editors, and Publishers, 7th ed.: Reference T11 .S386 2006.
Sociology
• American Sociological Association Style Guide, 6th ed.: Reference HM569 .A54 2019
Closely resembles APA style in formatting and use of parenthetical references.
