1. Student 5 Lee Pre- Feedback Theory: 20 mins Richard Galletly, Aston University

2. Student needs Personal Statement structure Writing sincerely Using simple, evidenced sentences to justify ideas

3. Personal Statement structure Why are you applying for your chosen course(s)? Why does this subject interest you? Why do you think you’re suitable for the course(s)? Do your current or previous studies relate to the course(s) that you have chosen? If so, how? Have you taken part in any other activities that demonstrate your interest in the course(s)? Skills and achievements Hobbies and interests Work experience Tell universities why you want to study in the UK and why you think you can successfully complete a course that is taught in English Future plans

4. Dos and don’ts: your personal statement Do use your best English and don't let spelling and grammatical errors spoil your statement. Do show that you know your strengths and can outline your ideas clearly Do be enthusiastic Do expect to produce several drafts of your personal statement before being totally happy with it. Do ask people you trust for their feedback. Don't exaggerate Don't leave it to the last minute – your statement will seem rushed and important information could be left out. (UCAS)

5. References I Bailey, S. (2011). Academic Writing for International Students of Business. Oxon: Routledge. Bowell, T. & Kemp, G. (2010). Critical Thinking: a Concise Guide. Oxon: Routledge. Burke, D. & Pieterick, J. (2010). Giving Students Effective Written Feedback. Maidenhead: McGraw-Hill Education. Cottrell, S. (2005). Critical Thinking Skills. Basingstoke: Palgrave Macmillan. Fitzpatrick, M. (2011). Engaging Writing 2: Essential Skills for Academic Writing. NY: Pearson Education. Gillett, A., Hammond, A. & Martala, M. (2009). Successful Academic Writing. Harlow: Pearson Education Ltd.

6. References II Hewings, M. (2005). Advanced Grammar in Use. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press. McMillan, K. & Weyers, J. (2010). How to write essays and assignments. Harlow: Pearson Education Ltd. Murphy, R. (2004). English Grammar in Use. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press. Oshima, A. & Hogue, A. (2006). Writing Academic English: level 4. NY: Pearson Education. Reinders, H., Moore, N. & Lewis, M. (2008). The International Student Handbook. London: Palgrave Macmillan. Swales, J.M. & Feak, C.B. (2007). Academic Writing for Graduate Students. Michigan: The University of Michigan Press.

7. References III Swan, M. (2005). Practical English Usage. Oxford: Oxford University Press. Tissington, P., Hasel, M. & Matthiesen, J. (2009). How to Write Successful Business and Management Essays. London: Sage Publications Ltd. UCAS (2011). UCAS Personal Statement Worksheet. [online]. Available at: http://www.ucas.ac.uk/documents/statement/worksheet.pdf [downloaded 16.01.12] UCAS (2011). UCAS Personal Statement Mindmap. [online]. Available at: http://www.ucas.ac.uk/documents/statement/mindmap.pdf [downloaded 16.01.12]