Writing and Language Support
We know our writing and language development improves when we get to talk about it with others at various stages of the process.
We help you develop your academic writing skills and your approach to the writing process through meaningful conversations about your writing in individual appointments, workshops, and writing groups.
If you are a multilingual student and want to improve your English language skills, you can participate in individual and group sessions and access classroom instruction to help improve your writing, speaking and listening, oral presentation, and reading skills.
Due to PDF fileRyerson Policy, we are unable to help with take home tests or exams.
Need assistance using Google Hangouts, Zoom or Skype? google docRead our guide on online apps, external link.
Appointments
We offer three types of individual appointments:
For students who use English as an additional language. Build your vocabulary, fluency, and confidence. Meet with a member of the student staff and practice and improve your spoken English skills. Engage in structured language activities or have an informal conversation - you can also practice an oral presentation and receive critical feedback.
Meet with a member of the student staff and go through a written assignment. Staff serve as a "second reader" and will help you identify errors with grammar, usage, word choice, and style, helping you to become a more effective self-editor.
Meet with a trained writing consultant to discuss your academic writing. Ask questions, and get thoughtful, critical feedback that will help you move forward. Come in at any stage of the writing process.
Virtual Drop-in Hours
How it works
Drop-ins are for same-day requests, and on a first come, first served basis. The Zoom link will be available for the duration of drop-in hours. If a consultant is available, they will see you immediately. If the consultant is already with a student, we will let you know when a spot becomes available. We will do our best to accommodate all requests. However, drop-in is not guaranteed.
Drop-ins will resume the week of January 25th for Winter 2021. Our drop-in hours are Monday, Wednesday and Friday 12-2PM, and Tuesday and Thursday 7-9PM.
Weekly Group Sessions and Non-Credit Classes
For students who use English as an additional language. These weekly group sessions build oral fluency and interpersonal communication skills through group discussions, real-life tasks, and presentations. Learn strategies for vocabulary development, general/professional communication, and gain confidence in your conversation and facilitation skills.
The group runs weekly on Wednesdays (excluding reading week) from 1pm to 2:30pm.
For students who use English as an additional language. These student-centred oral communication classes build confidence, fluency, appropriateness, and accuracy in spoken English. Engaging exercises and activities provide opportunities to build and practice skills, strategies, and techniques that will help you become a more effective oral communicator.
The group runs weekly on Tuesdays (excluding reading week) from 3pm to 5pm.
Foundations of Academic Writing and Grammar
Feeling intimidated by your writing assignments? Need help fine-tuning your grammar and essay writing skills?
We’ve designed a half-day workshop to help you develop your confidence and writing skills.
We invite all Ryerson first-year students to join us for a crash course introduction to university-level writing and research. Topics include:
- Harnessing high school writing skills for university success
- Not your 5-paragraph essay: common university writing assignments
- Introduction to scholarly research
- The academic writing process
- Common grammar errors…and more!
Although the program is designed with first-year students in mind, all Ryerson students are welcome!
The Foundations of Academic Writing and Grammar session is being offered online on October 22, 12pm to 4pm.
Are you struggling with writer’s block or procrastinating on your writing assignments? For two hours each week, students are invited to put away distractions, set achievable goals, and write! If you have questions about your writing or need some extra motivation, a writing expert will be available to support you. Drop by for a few sessions or join us every week. All Ryerson students are welcome to attend.
The group runs on Mondays from 1pm-3pm
Conversational Connections
This program is a unique opportunity for students who use English as an additional language. Get matched with a volunteer, aged 60+, and practice your English language speaking skills 1-on-1 in a relaxed, informal conversational situation. Build your confidence and fluency, exchange cultural ideas, and gain an appreciation of intergenerational differences. This program is a partnership between Writing & Language Support and Programs for 50+ at the Chang School of Continuing Education. A short virtual interview will be arranged to clarify expectations