Homework!
The typical undergraduate course involves three hours of lectures each week, an additional lab or discussion section, reading assignments, quizzes and tests, a mid-term examination, and a final examination, as well as one or more research papers or projects. Keeping up with the work is important.
Foreign students are sometimes dismayed by the amount of reading assigned for their courses, especially if English is not their native language. It is important, therefore, to be clear about the role of the reading assignments in a course. In some courses, the reading is central; you must read the texts closely and know the material for exams. In other courses, readings may be supplementary or optional. It probably will not be possible for you to read thoroughly everything that is assigned. You will have to prioritize: read the most important material first and carefully; then skim the less important assignments.
If you find yourself falling behind or feeling terribly pressured about your assignments, discuss your problem with the professor or teaching assistant after a class or during office hours. Don’t hesitate to get help if you are having academic problems.
Research papers are another aspect of homework that may seem overwhelming. Some students are unable to express themselves clearly or eloquently in written English; others do not know how to use the research tools in the library; others may not be familiar with American academic writing styles and conventions. Many American students share these problems, and help is seldom far away. Most colleges and universities offer workshops on writing and research skills.
In your writing, you will be expected to know when and how to “paraphrase” or summarize another writer’s ideas in your own words.
If you are not a native English speaker this may seem difficult-even foolhardy-and you may be tempted to quote your sources word for word. Because this practice can lead to a charge of “plagiarism” (see below), it is essential that you acquire the skill of paraphrasing. You will find that if you truly understand the ideas you are dealing with, you will be able to express them clearly. Find an instructor or U.S. student, perhaps a volunteer tutor or conversation partner, who will read your papers, point out passages that are unclear, and help you find phrasing that conveys your meaning. You may have to sacrifice the elegance of the original quotation, but your paper will gain coherence from the effort you put into synthesizing all of the material you use.
Plagiarism is the use of another’s words or ideas without acknowledgment of their source. Although in some cultures incorporating the words of revered scholars is an important part of the style of academic writing, it is not acceptable in the United States; indeed, it is considered a serious offense. The consequences of proven or even suspected plagiarism can be severe (for example, a failing grade or expulsion from class or the university). Borrowed words and ideas must always be clearly documented. If you expect to experience writing difficulties, you should get help as soon as possible.
An important distinction exists between group work and individual work. In general, papers, homework assignments, quizzes, and tests should be done individually, and evidence (or even suspicion) of collaboration can result in a failing grade for the work or expulsion from the class or institution. Studying with others is a good idea, but before you collaborate with others on homework, papers, or tests, make sure the professor has specifically authorized such collaboration.
The ability to use computers is essential to success in a U.S. college or university today. Most U.S. professors do not accept handwritten papers (except exams). U.S. students typically write their papers on computers, which are usually available for student use in the library or computing center, and possibly in residence halls or other locations.
[Quizzes, test, and exams][English as a degree requirement]
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