Student Writing Center Resources

Free Library of Philadelphia has a robust calendar of events, with events focusing specifically on English Conversation Groups. Some groups are focused on specific elements, such as art or storytelling, and others are broad topics of conversation!

Vocabulary and Idioms

Longman Dictionary of Contemporary English: definitions and examples, often with pictures alongside definitions.
Visuword Visual Dictionary: Offers picture representations of words and word formation.
American Idioms is a website that lists the most common idioms used in the United States, with examples of how to use the phrase.

Grammar Resources
Guide to Grammar provides grammar explanations and examples for everyday use, academic writing, and speaking. It also includes quizzes and activities.
ESL Blues provides short tutorials, common errors explained, and activities to strengthen grammar usage.
Grammar Bytes provides links for YouTube videos, self-paced activities, common grammar terms, as well as simple tips and rules.

Reading Resources
The Times in Plain English provides stories from the New York Times that are straightforward to improve reading skills while learning about current events.
Many things provides current events with a listening component, so you can listen and read at the same time.

Additional Writing Resources
Paradigm Online Writing Assistant provides explanations and activities to practice the writing process from start to finish. This website also helps you when you are asking yourself “where do I even begin?”

In accordance with the Writing Center’s commitment to inclusive pedagogy, we are committed to honoring all forms of writing and expression. This includes students who identify with or have been diagnosed as autistic.

Our tutors engage in training to learn best practices in working with students on the spectrum through engagement with the ASPIRE Program and individual autistic students. Above all, our aim is to accommodate the needs and preferences of all students who come to the Writing Center. These accommodations include, but are certainly not limited to, no expectations for eye-contact, availability of written feedback, and alternative communication styles.

We do not approach autism as an “issue” that needs to be fixed. On the contrary, we recognize that the ways in which many autistic writers speak, think, and write are equally as valid as the typical processes of neurotypical populations. We believe that diversity of style and experience makes all of our writing more vibrant and dynamic.

GUIDES FOR AUTISTIC WRITERS

Making a Writing Center Appointment

Beginning a Writing Center Appointment

During a Writing Center Appointment