definition coursework

How to Write a Coursework

Coursework projects do not resemble essays, research papers, or dissertations. They are the combination of all three. Students spend less time writing coursework than on making a term paper, but this type of work requires more time and efforts than an ordinary essay - it is made of several essays. Thanks to our guide, each student can discover how to write coursework. If you are running out of time or lack experience to complete the specific coursework, we recommend using our coursework writing services to hire professional academic writers.

What is Coursework and Why Does It Matter?

Coursework definition: General Certificate of Secondary Education (GCSE) coursework is a typical academic assignment, given in the course of study to evaluate the student’s knowledge, skills, and identify the final grade. Many students face this type of writing in the US colleges. One of the examples is a coursework UTD (The University of Texas at Dallas) - the requirements of this institution are strict, and many students fail to submit their papers and pass the corresponding courses.

Such type of assignment helps to have the ‘detective’ hat on: a student observes, examines, and evaluates the chosen topic using credible, up-to-date, and relevant sources. Working under controlled conditions is important. Participating in every school class will help to prepare good coursework by the end of the term. Take a look at the examples of what students of various profiles may face:

• English Composition - English coursework is an extended essay in most cases. A student has a right to pick the topic. The tutors provide their students with the list of recommended titles to choose from, sources to observe & analyze, and a format (e.g., a comparison between different relevant articles)
• Sciences - coursework for science is a complicated assignment. Such type of work appears in the form of a scientific paper to test what a writer investigates and reports independently.
• Geography - geography coursework is about collecting, reporting, and explaining information to reply to a certain geographical question or offer solutions to the problem. One idea is to explore the usage of a shopping mall or analyze the recent tornado. No matter whether you have to prepare a coursework Columbia or such paper for other educational institutions, keep in mind these differences!

Types of Coursework Explained

English Language coursework is the most common type of this assignment. At advanced GCE level, the student will be expected to write a couple of essays, totaling 3,000 words. Every assignment is 20 marks maximum.

An analytical essay : Evaluate, compare, & contrast 3 different sources of data interconnected by a common theme; written /spoken / multimedia content. Discuss different uses for targeting various audiences. Learn more on our blog.

Original essay with a supportive commentary : A student will have to come up with a single piece of media writing in the observed modes (written, spoken, or multimodal). Add a supporting piece with details about the aspects of English language. English Language & Literature coursework is a bit different. The basic requirements are the same, and the parts are:

An analytical study : Sharing an analysis of the chosen piece and its relation to the related content. It will show how well the writer understands the original piece. Tutors grade such works based on the:

• Use of the proper terminology and the coherence of the written words;
• Understanding & evaluation of the way a structure, form, and language create the written & spoken word;
• Opportunity to observe relationships between various pieces of writing.

Creative writing & commentary : Produce a creative piece that imitates the style of the assessed text. Share comments to backup your understanding. The goal is to show the knowledge, prove the competence, and use appropriate language skills in communicating with the target audience. You will also need a relevant coursework resume (review) in both cases. Keep on reading to learn how to write coursework of A level.

How to Write a Coursework: Guide for Students

Several factors may lead to the coursework being disqualified. It is a serious matter! The risk factors include:

• Plagiarism - it is the worst thing that could happen to any type of academic assignment. Lots of relevant information is available on the world wide web today, and the tutors are strict about the issue of plagiarism. Write everything in your own words! If you decide to insert the quotes from the sources, apply the suggested citation format and develop a list of references. Sign the declaration claiming it is your original project. If you're unsure about how to approach this, seeking professional help by choosing to write my coursework can be a wise decision.
• Word count - do not ignore the specific requirements concerning the length of the coursework. Specify if the footnotes, appendices, & references are included in the word count.
• Topics - go through the list of available themes. If there is an examination planned on the specific topic, try to pick another idea for the coursework.
• Tutor’s assistance - do not ignore the help of your instructor, ask them to provide guidance on what to write. Ask the questions to learn more details, but keep in mind they can go through the 1st draft once and just offer some general recommendations.

Choosing a Topic for Your Project

Dedicate enough time to this extra important question. Select the field of your interest if it is possible to relate it to the course. That is the golden rule of choosing a coursework topic - keep in mind the rest of the hints:

• Analyze the offered list of topics or develop yours
• Pick a topic from the area of your expertise related to the studied subject
• Select the topic you are interested in
• Choose the topic you’ve started to observe in the past
• Check how much relevant, up-to-date information is available on the Internet about each of the topics
• Pick what you can measure, change, & control (they call it a ‘fair test’)
• Use the ideas of previous researchers and students
• Do not choose a topic with a vast scope - you risk struggling to research it correctly

10 Good Coursework Topics

• Non-traditional Forms of Poetry with TC Tolbert
• Documentary Foundations: Usage of Oral Histories with Beth Alvarado
• Traditional Forms of Poetry
• Hermit Crabs: Type of Fiction
• Writing the Autobiographical Poem
• Creative Non-Fiction on the Examples of New Journalists
• Authors without Borders
• Writing the Sticky Stuff
• Socially Engaged Literary Arts
• Common Vocabulary

Research & Data Collection

Research is an integral part of coursework. Have you written research papers before? If yes, you will find it easier to select proper primary & secondary sources and gather the necessary information (evidence to support the main point - thesis). Depending on the required paper format, cite & reference the following sources:

• Books & e-Books

Base the project on a specific hypothesis. The research must start with minimum one hypothesis. The research stage for some topics may consist of visiting websites to collect information. Leave another time for collecting the data as it is the heart of the research. Three methods of data collection are known:

• Direct personal investigation : The one an author does individually (using literature and findings from previous studies);
• Interview/Questionnaire : The researcher should gather the data from the respondents asking questions regarding required data;
• Discussion with community leaders : Community leaders are approached to fetch information for the necessary data.

In case a student works on a scientific experiment, they should pay attention to planning the analysis with the help of rigorous scientific methods (keeping in mind the Health & Safety precautions you take). Review background information and theories. Take notes to express what you expect to occur to compare & contrast it to what happened in real life. In the write-up stage, one has to evaluate and present the findings.

Writing a Coursework Outline

The writing process follows the research. Do not start it without preparing an action plan and scheduling the work - a paper pin for English coursework is based on an extended essay . An outline will look different for the science coursework projects. The goal of creating a plan is to prevent a writer from being disorganized and waffling.

Let us explain coursework outline on the specific example - a project on the global pursuit of lower costs and the role of human rights.

Start with the brief introduction explaining why it might be a topic of interest for many people. Mention those vast corporations like Wal-Mart abuse human rights by choosing and using child labor in the factories.

Provide an overview of the problem . Define human rights and costs. Pick the definitions from the official dictionaries and cite them properly when inserting in the text. Try to explain the terms in your own words.

Develop a body of the coursework , start with the case for & against ethical business practices. Using evidence and examples, list the arguments supporting ethical business practices and another side of the coin. Include a business case for ethical practices after the opening body paragraph.

Move to discussing ethical responsibilities ; explain why business organizations should care about the ethical aspects of their activities. After three sections of the body, one can conclude the paper. It can be a good idea to share a fact or statistics stressing the importance of research problem in the essay conclusion. End up with the reference list that may look this way:

• Klein N (2000) No Logo (Flamingo, London)
• Marcousé I, Gillespie A, Martin B, Surridge M and Wall N (2003) Business Studies 2e (Hodder Arnold, Oxon)
• Royal Dutch Shell (2006) 4th Quarter Financial Report at (site example)

Additional Elements

Supporting materials and pictures are a must! The sciences & geography projects require tables, charts, graphs, and other types of images to illustrate the complicated topic. Not only should you add the pictures - it is essential to interpret and reference each of them. A separate part of the coursework where the student list and explains every visual element is Appendix , and it is an optional part. The presence of appendix increases the chances to earn an A+.

How to Write an Introduction for Coursework?

Most of the students underestimate the role of introduction & conclusion when it comes to writing an essay. An eye-catchy introduction is a key to success. The primary purposes of a coursework introduction are:

• To grab the reader’s attention
• To introduce the topic
• To explain the research importance
• To come up with a compelling thesis statement

The opening paragraph shows the depth of the writer’s acquaintance with the topic. Look at the expert tips below. They will help to learn how to write a coursework introduction to make the tutor want to read your entire paper.

What Is an Introduction?

The introduction of GCSE coursework is the opening paragraph that aims to interpret the central questions and purposes of the entire paper. It should have several elements to be effective. Those are:

• A hook sentence
• Background information
• Problem significance
• Solid thesis statement

Advice from our Experienced Writer

How to write an introduction to coursework? The quality of this part predetermines paper’s success. Look at some common mistakes writers do while working on the coursework introduction - try to prevent them!

Ignoring the prompt. Many students tend to neglect the tutor’s instructions. It is critical to read the prompt several times, highlight the main points, research question, rules, and grading rubric details.

Missing a plan. The prompt does not always say to develop a coursework outline. Without a plan for every separate section, it is impossible to write a flawless piece step-by-step. No matter whether you have to write a term paper, research paper, dissertation, or C3 coursework, get ready with the detailed plan. Once you understand how to write an introduction, it will be easier to develop the rest of the paper.

For those who need a helping hand in ensuring their work meets all the standards and deadlines, don't hesitate to buy coursework from trusted professionals.

Related Articles

What is Coursework? | Definition, Meaning & keypoints!

What is coursework.

Coursework is a practical work or study done by a student in partial fulfilment of a degree or training. Projects, field work, design studies, long essays etc constitutes a coursework. The nature of work which requires to be carried out depends on the course. It is largely a part of learning exercise and a step to prepare you to handle the required work/ task effectively and efficiently.

• folios of essays
• art and craft items
• speaking tests
• practical work
• assignments and experiments undertaken and assessed during the course

As per Oxford dictionary “Coursework” is defined as

Written or practical work done by a student during a course of study, usually assessed in order to count towards a final mark or grade.

Who assigns coursework and why?

Coursework can be assigned by your teacher or mentor. The reason can be an assessment by the teacher but in most of the cases it’s a requirement as per course structure. A coursework is meant to reflect understanding of what has been taught. How well you understand it and apply it in different situations. Your own thoughts and way of thinking about a topic is reflected in your final work. As mentioned earlier nature of coursework is very diverse. Institutions may make you to write (essays, paper, term paper, thesis etc) or make something (sculpture, are & craft related things) or take some form of test. All these activities done as a coursework award you marks or grades which are counted to evaluate your overall grade for a particular course or purpose. Your creativity, understanding, innovative aspect, talent etc are reflected in the work done by you. Some of the most widely used form of coursework include thesis, dissertations, research paper & term paper as far as writing is concerned. Model making, crafts and other similar activity is generally given when creativity aspect is to be assessed. There may be a combination of these in few cases. The whole purpose largely depends on what your course and what it prepares you to be.

Major types of coursework & how to go about them?

Students have different and mix reaction when coursework is given. Some are excited as it gives them an option to put in effort and bring out something new. They are happy and confident to present their viewpoint and grasp of the topic. While some feels it is a burden and unnecessary task and just want to get away with it. Whatever the case may be there are few guidelines and rules while writing coursework which everyone should follow. Writing a coursework can also be fun!

Some of the steps to help you get started includes:

Coursework for academic topics which require writing:

• Do some research about your topic of interest or assigned topic
• Finalize your topic
• Prepare a structure especially for long writing coursework such as thesis
• Write an abstract or summary for approval from mentor/teacher.
• Do a thorough research for collecting data , facts.
• Start writing and keep on doing the required research
• Check for plagiarism (if any) and work to remove it
• Give credits & references

What makes a good and effective content

A good and effective content is easy to read and understand by readers. Some of the points while writing a content to improve its quality are

• Well- structured
• Well Illustrated
• Predictable

Coursework requiring you to make something like model, sculpture or artwork

• Find something which you appreciate (its design, concept, through, history, significance)
• Come up with what remains the focus area for your coursework
• Decide what you wish to make and in what form eg. model (scaled or not to scale), sculpture or some craftwork
• Finalize the materials to be used such as waste materials, wax, wood, metal, plastic etc
• Collect all the required stuff for making your masterpiece
• Have a mental image prepared and preferably a rough sketch
• Get working!

Key points to be kept in mind while working on coursework

• Originality – Your topic/ idea should be original. Originality of idea is given significant importance and can be a deal breaker. This is not just of the requirement in most of the cases but also a scoring parameter. There are countless number of students and scholars doing research so having an original idea keeps you on positive side. Some students prefer contacting  SmartWritingService coursework writing service to get professional help from experts.
• Need – If you coursework is solution oriented then you must clearly identify the key problems and issues which you aim to cover under your work. A good solution cannot be provided unless the problem has been understood well.
• Uniqueness – Uniqueness in terms of idea and work. Preparing good questionnaires and conducting surveys adds to uniqueness and originality of content. Not only your topic and but also content should be unique. Avoid plagiarism, copying is a strict “NO”. Any form and extent of plagiarism is dealt seriously if caught and can even disqualify your submission.
• Your Input – This is the most crucial aspect. Your inputs will reflect the understanding and applicability of topic by you. This is the whole purpose of having a coursework. Try your best and put best foot forward. Having a well structured and presented work is something a teacher and mentor is looking for.
• Outcomes & way forward – Having worked and making lots of efforts doesn’t have much value unless useful outcomes are shown. Having a good & meaningful analysis and presentation of data with the  best data extraction service is an essential factor. These can be in form of proposals or problem identification. Your work might conclude your topic or pave a path for others to continue working. Depending on the work and nature of coursework give a conclusion to your study and propose what can be done next or how it can be used.

Coursework & Higher Education

Doctorates are the highest degrees conferred by universities. An online or on campus doctorate can lead to a high-level position in a number of different fields, from business administration to health care to quality control. The lengthy road to earning a doctorate can be shortened by at least several months through online study.

The doctorate degree requires two to five years of postgraduate work, the writing of a thesis, and the passing of oral and written examinations. Most doctoral degrees are the doctor of philosophy (Ph.D.) degree, although recipients of this degree may have studied a number of academic fields other than philosophy.

Doctorate degrees are now available in numerous fields, including:

• Business Administration
• Computer Science
• Environmental Engineering
• Health Administration
• Industrial Engineering
• International Business
• Quality Control

Admission to doctoral programs requires completion of an undergraduate degree program and typically, but not always, of a master’s degree program. Students earning a doctorate must take a specified number of advanced graduate-level courses, requiring at least two or three years of study beyond the master’s degree. Upon passing written or oral examinations, or a combination of both, doctoral students are granted the status of doctoral candidates. Then they must research and write a dissertation on an original topic, and then satisfactorily defend the dissertation before a committee of professors in the field.

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Definition of coursework noun from the Oxford Advanced American Dictionary

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What is Coursework?

Table of Contents

Definition and Meaning

So what is coursework? Coursework is an integral part of the educational process, which refers to written or practical tasks that students perform during educational courses. These assignments are typically evaluated and contribute to the final grade or mark. The coursework definition, especially the term “curriculum-mandated” signifies that instructors are required to assign coursework within certain guidelines. This aspect of academic work is crucial as it extends learning beyond the traditional classroom setting.

While some coursework may involve practical tasks conducted within the classroom, a significant portion is often completed independently by students, such as in their homes or dormitories. Notably, certain colleges in Texas are adopting policies that mandate a minimum of 20% of writing coursework to be completed in class, under the supervision of educators. This approach ensures the authenticity of students’ work and provides an opportunity for direct observation of their writing skills.

Additionally, it’s common for students to access previously submitted coursework online, serving as a resource for their own assignments. However, when utilizing such materials, it is imperative to thoroughly rewrite and adapt the content to maintain originality and avoid plagiarism.

Types and Examples of Coursework

The many faces of coursework.

So, what is coursework? Coursework isn’t a one-size-fits-all kind of deal. It morphs to fit the subject, the course, and the learning objectives. Here’s a snapshot:

• Essays and Written Assignments. From reflective pieces to extensive research papers, these are staples in humanities and social sciences.
• Lab Reports and Scientific Research. Science and engineering students often get hands-on with experiments, followed by detailed reporting.
• Art and Design Portfolios. For the creatives, it’s about showcasing their artistic journey through portfolios.
• Group Projects and Presentations. These emphasize collaboration and communication skills, common in business and management courses.
• Fieldwork and Case Studies. Especially in disciplines like anthropology or marketing, where real-world application is key.

Examples in Different Fields

• Biology Coursework. Might involve a lab-based investigation into a specific biological phenomenon.
• Literature Coursework. Could be an analysis of a particular literary work or a comparative study of multiple pieces.
• Computer Science Coursework. Often involves coding projects or developing software solutions.

Importance and Objectives

More than just grades.

What is coursework? Coursework is about more than chasing an ‘A’. It’s an integral part of the learning process. Through coursework, you:

• Develop Critical Skills. Like research, analysis, and problem-solving.
• Apply Theoretical Knowledge. It’s your chance to use what you’ve learned in a practical context.
• Prepare for the Future. Whether it’s further academic pursuits or the professional world, coursework lays the groundwork.

Educational Objectives

Graduate coursework, in particular, is designed to deepen expertise in a field. It’s less about memorizing facts and more about developing a sophisticated understanding of complex concepts.

Challenges and Strategies

Common roadblocks.

• Time Management: Juggling multiple assignments can be overwhelming.
• Understanding Requirements: Sometimes, assignment briefs are as clear as mud.
• Maintaining Academic Integrity: The line between inspiration and plagiarism can get blurry.

Navigating the Coursework Maze

• Start Early: Procrastination is your enemy. Begin as soon as you get the assignment.
• Seek Clarification: If you’re not sure, ask. Better safe than sorry.
• Use Resources Wisely: Libraries, online databases, and even study groups can be goldmines.

Helpful Sources

• Cambridge Dictionary
• Merriam-Webster
• Can you attend two colleges at once ?

Final Thoughts

In a nutshell, what is coursework? Coursework is an indispensable part of the academic journey. It’s where theory meets practice, where skills are honed, and knowledge is deepened. As education continues to evolve with technology and changing societal needs, so does coursework. It adapts, transforms, and continues to play a crucial role in shaping competent, well-rounded individuals ready to take on the world. So, embrace your coursework – it’s not just a stepping stone to a grade, but a pathway to learning, growth, and success.

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Definition of course

 (Entry 1 of 2)

Definition of course  (Entry 2 of 2)

transitive verb

intransitive verb

• methodology

Examples of course in a Sentence

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'course.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Middle English cours, borrowed from Anglo-French cours, curs, going back to Latin cursus "action of running, charge, movement along a path, progress," from currere "to run, flow" + -tus, suffix of verbal action — more at current entry 1

Note: As pointed out by Michiel de Vaan ( Etymological Dictionary of Latin and the Other Italic Languages, Leiden, 2008), the expected outcome of the verbal adjective in *-to- and the verbal noun in *-tū- would be *kostus < *korstus < *kr̥s-to-, kr̥s-tū-, from the verbal base *kr̥s- (> currere ). The attested form cursus for both the past participle and verbal noun reflects remodeling on the pattern of stems ending in a dental (as morsus from mordere "to bite," versus from vertere "to turn"). As generally in Latin, the verbal noun, where full grade of the root would be expected, has been supplanted by zero grade of the verbal adjective.

Middle English coursen "to pursue," derivative of cours course entry 1

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

15th century, in the meaning defined at transitive sense 1

Phrases Containing course

• as a matter of course
• assault course
• collision course
• correspondence course
• course load
• course of action
• course of events
• course of study
• crash course
• golf course
• holder in due course
• in due course
• in the course of time
• in the usual / normal / ordinary course of business
• let nature take its course
• matter of course
• normal / ordinary course of events
• obstacle course
• of course not
• on a collision course
• par for the course
• pervert the course of justice
• refresher course
• run its course
• run one's course
• sandwich course
• stay the course
• survey course
• the course of history
• veer off course

Dictionary Entries Near course

coursed ashlar

Cite this Entry

“Course.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary , Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/course. Accessed 25 Apr. 2024.

Kids Definition

Kids definition of course.

Kids Definition of course  (Entry 2 of 2)

Middle English cours, course "action of moving in a certain path, path of movement, progress," from early French curs, course (same meaning), derived from Latin currere "to run" — related to corridor , current

Medical Definition

Medical definition of course, more from merriam-webster on course.

Nglish: Translation of course for Spanish Speakers

Britannica English: Translation of course for Arabic Speakers

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[ kawrs , kohrs ]

Synonyms: passage , track , road , way

the course of a stream.

Synonyms: bearing

• advance or progression in a particular direction; forward or onward movement.

in the course of a year; in the course of the battle.

One runner fell halfway around the course.

a course of action.

Synonyms: mode , method

as a matter of course; the course of a disease.

Synonyms: career , process

• a mode of conduct; behavior.

a course of lectures; a course of medical treatments.

a course in economics.

• a prescribed number of instruction periods or classes in a particular field of study.

The main course was roast chicken with mashed potatoes and peas.

• the line along the earth's surface upon or over which a vessel, an aircraft, etc., proceeds: described by its bearing with relation to true or magnetic north.
• a point of the compass.
• Nautical. the lowermost sail on a fully square-rigged mast: designated by a special name, as foresail or mainsail, or by the designation of the mast itself, as fore course or main course.

Synonyms: layer , row

• one of the pairs of strings on an instrument of the lute family, tuned in unison or in octaves to increase the volume.
• the row of stitches going across from side to side in knitting and other needlework ( wale ).
• Often courses . the menses.
• a charge by knights in a tournament.
• a pursuit of game with dogs by sight rather than by scent.
• golf course .

verb (used with object)

• to run through or over.
• to chase; pursue.
• to hunt (game) with dogs by sight rather than by scent.
• to cause (dogs) to pursue game by sight rather than by scent.
• Masonry. to lay (bricks, stones, etc.) in courses.

verb (used without object)

• to follow a course; direct one's course.

The blood of ancient emperors courses through his veins.

• to take part in a hunt with hounds, a tilting match, etc.

the course of his life

they kept on a southerly course

the course of a river

a watercourse

a golf course

in the course of the next hour

the illness ran its course

if you follow that course, you will certainly fail

• a connected series of events, actions, etc
• a prescribed number of lessons, lectures, etc, in an educational curriculum
• the material covered in such a curriculum

a course of treatment

the fish course

• a continuous, usually horizontal, layer of building material, such as a row of bricks, tiles, etc
• nautical any of the sails on the lowest yards of a square-rigged ship
• knitting the horizontal rows of stitches Compare wale 1
• (in medieval Europe) a charge by knights in a tournament
• a hunt by hounds relying on sight rather than scent
• a match in which two greyhounds compete in chasing a hare
• the part or function assigned to an individual bell in a set of changes
• archaic. a running race
• as a matter of course as a matter of course as a natural or normal consequence, mode of action, or event
• the course of nature the course of nature the ordinary course of events

the ship was in course of construction

• in due course in due course at some future time, esp the natural or appropriate time
• adverb as expected; naturally
• sentence substitute certainly; definitely
• run its course run its coursetake its course (of something) to complete its development or action
• intr to run, race, or flow, esp swiftly and without interruption
• to cause (hounds) to hunt by sight rather than scent or (of hounds) to hunt (a quarry) thus
• tr to run through or over; traverse
• intr to take a direction; proceed on a course

Discover More

Other words from.

• multi·course noun
• under·course verb undercoursed undercoursing noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of course 1

Idioms and Phrases

They will get their comeuppance in due course.

Of course I'll come to the party.

Extra services are charged for, of course.

More idioms and phrases containing course

Example sentences.

And, that can hamper a site owner’s ability to fully identify patterns of problems across the entire site, export more URLs by category, and then of course, address all of those problems in a timely manner.

A relatively tiny spend for someone like Bezos could alter the course of how we address climate change and what we focus on globally.

If you enter any keywords into Google Trends, you get to see how interest in that topic has increased or decreased over the course of time.

Home wins over Nebraska would not do much to help Maryland’s tournament résumé, but over the course of just a few days, the Terps could significantly improve their 4-9 Big Ten record.

Over the course of 2020, the paid search team drove a 137 percent year-over-year increase in CTR through keyword audits, URL audits, ongoing performance optimizations, and flexible allocation of budget to the most efficient keywords.

Its biggest asset, of course, is the steely Atwell, who never asks you to feel sorry for Carter despite all the sexism around her.

The U.S. military has said it is too early to make any conclusions, other than the war is on course.

“Competition is there, of course, but I think there is enough business for everyone as long as the demand is there,” he says.

All of these far future speculations, of course, depend on a series of “ifs.”

And of course, Rod, being Rod, goes for it a hundred percent; his mouth drops open and he says, ‘What?’

And she would be wearing some of the jewels with the white dress—just a few, not many, of course.

Of course, considerations of weight have to be taken into account, but the more mould round the roots the better.

Of course the expression of this value is modified and characterized by the nature of the thing spoken of.

What course was taken to supply that assembly when any noble family became extinct?

Of course it is only the hardiest Ferns which can be expected to grow well in the town garden.

Related Words

• preparation

[ ak -s uh -lot-l ]

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Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023

Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.

Definition of 'coursework'

Coursework in american english, coursework in british english.

Examples of 'coursework' in a sentence coursework

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The international legal definition of forced labour

According to the ILO Forced Labour Convention, 1930 (No. 29) , forced or compulsory labour is:

"all work or service which is exacted from any person under the threat of a penalty and for which the person has not offered himself or herself voluntarily."

This definition consists of three elements:

• Work or service  refers to all types of work occurring in any activity, industry or sector including in the informal economy.
• Menace of any penalty  refers to a wide range of penalties used to compel someone to work.
• Involuntariness: The terms “offered voluntarily” refer to the free and informed consent of a worker to take a job and his or her freedom to leave at any time. This is not the case for example when an employer or recruiter makes false promises so that a worker take a job he or she would not otherwise have accepted.

Convention No. 29, in Article 2(2) , also provides for exceptions to the definition of forced labour by specifically referring to five situations in which compulsory labour may be imposed: 

• work of a purely military character exacted in virtue of compulsory military service;
• normal civic obligations;
• work or service exacted from any person as a consequence of a conviction in a court of law, carried out under the supervision of a public authority;
• work exacted in cases of emergency, such as wars or natural calamities; and
• minor communal services in the direct interest of the community involved.

Each of these exceptions is subject to the observance of certain conditions that define their limits. If these limits are not respected, this can amount to a situation of compulsory labour imposed by the State.

The Abolition of Forced Labour Convention No. 105  adopted by the ILO in 1957 primarily concerns forced labour imposed by state authorities. It prohibits specifically the use of forced labour:

• as punishment for the expression of political views,
• for the purposes of economic development,
• as a means of labour discipline,
• as a punishment for participation in strikes,
• as a means of racial, religious or other discrimination.

“Forced labour”, “human trafficking” (also called “trafficking in persons”) and “slavery” are terms that are often used interchangeably. However, while these concepts do have significant overlap, they are conceptually distinct and each has a clear definition in international law.

What is trafficking in persons? 

The definition of trafficking in persons, provided by the United Nations Protocol to Prevent, Suppress and Punish Trafficking in Persons Especially Women and Children, supplementing the United Nations Convention against Transnational Organized Crime, 2000 (UN Protocol), in Article 3(a), encompasses three elements:

• Acts : Recruitment, transportation, transfer, harbouring or receipt of persons. 
• Means : The means that are used to accomplish one of the prohibited acts; namely, the use of threat or of force or other forms of coercion, of abduction, of fraud, of deception, of the abuse of power or of a position of vulnerability or of the giving or receiving of payments or benefits to achieve the consent of a person having control over another person.
• Purpose : Whether this act, using the above means, was conducted for the purpose of exploitation. The UN Protocol provides that “exploitation” includes “at a minimum, the exploitation of the prostitution of others or other forms of sexual exploitation, forced labour or services, slavery or practices similar to slavery, servitude or the removal of organs”. 

What is slavery?

“Slavery” is defined under Article 1(1) of the League of Nations Convention to Suppress the Slave Trade and Slavery (the Slavery Convention), 1926, as “the status or condition of a person over whom any or all of the powers attaching to the right of ownership are exercised”. Slavery is an institution of complete ownership, in which an individual is subjected to the full control of the slave owner who can make decisions for this individual on education (attending school or not), work (type and conditions) or even private life (who to marry). The prohibition of slavery in international law has achieved “jus cogens” status, meaning that all states accept it as a principle that cannot be derogated from. Nevertheless, and although slavery is prohibited by law in most countries, the practice or its vestiges remain in certain countries. In most cases, people subjected to slavery will find themselves in a situation of psychological, economic and social dependence. They have no option than work for their “master” and will fall under the definition of forced labour provided by the Convention No. 29.

Based on the definitions provided by the related international treaties, there is a significant overlap between forced labour, human trafficking and slavery. It is important for stakeholders involved in developing and implementing NAPs to understand these concepts and their precise scope.

International Labour Standards on Forced Labour

• Convention No. 29 (C29)
• Convention No. 105 (C105)
• Protocol No. 29 (P29)
• Recommendation 203 (R203)

The Forced Labour Convention (No. 29), adopted in 1930, contains the definition of forced labour and provides that it should be punished as a crime. This is one of the most ratified ILO standards. 

• Text of the Convention
• Ratifications
• Countries that have not ratified yet

The Abolition of Forced Labour Convention (No. 105), adopted in 1957,  deals with state-imposed forms of forced labour. This is one of the most ratified ILO standards. 

The Protocol to the Forced Labour Convention, (P029), adopted in 2014, requires ratifying countries to take effective measures to prevent forced labour, protect victims and ensure their access to justice. 

The Protocol complements the Convention No. 29, therefore only countries that have ratified this Convention can ratify the Protocol. 

• Text of the Protocol

The Forced Labour Recommendation (No. 203), adopted in 2014, provides further guidance on how to implement the Protocol.

It is a non-binding document that does not require ratification. 

• Text of the Recommendation

FAQ on forced labour

Forced labour and slavery are not a thing of the past. They have ancient roots in history and still exist today in many different forms. In fact, there are more people in slavery today than at any other time in history. Almost 50 million people around the world were victims of modern slavery in 2021, including about 28 million in forced labour, and 22 million in forced marriages. If they all lived together in a single city, it would be one of the biggest cities in the world.

Forced labour has grown in recent years. A simple comparison with the previous estimates indicates an increase of 2.7 million in the number people in forced labour between 2016 and 2021, which translates to a rise in the prevalence of forced labour from 3.4 to 3.5 per thousand people in the world.

Source: the 2021 Global Estimates of Modern Slavery  

Check the ILO data on forced labour for more information.

Forced labour affects in one way or another every country in the world; it is a truly global problem. Statistics on prevalence are highly significant since they indicate the level of risk that people face in different regions. Asia and the Pacific is host to more than half of the global total (15.1 million), followed by Europe and Central Asia (4.1 million), Africa (3.8 million), the Americas (3.6 million), and the Arab States (0.9 million). But this regional ranking changes considerably when forced labour is expressed as a proportion of the population. By this measure, forced labour is highest in the Arab States (5.3 per thousand people), followed by Europe and Central Asia (4.4 per thousand), the Americas and Asia and the Pacific (both at 3.5 per thousand), and Africa (2.9 per thousand).

Source: the 2021 Global Estimates of Modern Slavery .  

Forced labour affects all population groups, young and old, male and female. But some groups are more vulnerable than others. 

Women and girls in forced labour are much more likely than their male counterparts to be in domestic work, while men in forced labour are much more likely to be in the construction sector. Women are more likely to be coerced through wage non-payment and abuse of vulnerability, and men through threats of violence and financial penalties. Women are also more likely than men to be subjected to physical and sexual violence and threats against family members.

Migrant workers face a higher risk of forced labour than other workers. The forced labour prevalence of adult migrant workers is more than three times higher than that of adult non-migrant workers. This figure makes clear that when migrant workers are not protected by law or are unable to exercise their rights, migration is irregular or poorly governed, or where recruitment practices are unfair or unethical, migration can lead to situations of vulnerability to forced labour.

Source: the 2021 Global Estimates of Modern Slavery .

Most forced labour occurs in the private economy. Eighty-six per cent of forced labour cases are imposed by private actors – 63 per cent in the private economy in sectors other than commercial sexual exploitation and 23 per cent in forced commercial sexual exploitation. State-imposed forced labour accounts for the remaining 14 per cent of people in forced labour.

Forced labour is a huge business. An ILO study estimated that forced labour generates annual profits of over US$ 150 billion, which is as much as the combined profits of the four most profitable companies in the world. The annual profits generated per victim of forced labour are far, far higher in developed economies and the European Union than they are anywhere else in the world.

Source: ILO Report on Profits and Poverty: The Economics of Forced Labour.

Forced labour affects everyone. Even if you’re not a victim of forced labour, you’re still affected by it. Businesses, for example, face unfair competition from unscrupulous companies who reap the profits of forced labour. That may put pressure on them to lower wages or cut benefits. Meanwhile governments lose out on precious tax revenue while facing huge legal costs from prosecuting forced labour cases - money which could be spent on education, healthcare or social protection.

Want to know the situation of forced labour in your country? Check its dedicated profile on the Forced Labour Observatory .

ILO E-learning course on Forced Labour

Free self-guided course providing in-depth knowledge of what constitutes forced labour, its mechanisms and root causes.

ILO Standards on Forced Labour

The new Protocol and Recommendation at a glance

Why definitions matter

Forced labour is the same as trafficking and slavery?

Questions and answers on forced labour

Online Database

The Forced Labour Observatory

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Meaning of course in English

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course noun ( CLASSES )

• I did a course in creative writing.
• Julie has signed up for courses on English and French this year .
• There are still some vacancies for students in science and engineering courses.
• The course comprises a class book , a practice book and an audio tape .
• She's been offered a place on the nursing course.
• academic year
• access course
• Advanced Placement
• asynchronous
• foundation course
• immersion course
• on a course
• open admissions
• the national curriculum
• work placement

course noun ( SPORTS AREA )

• He spends every weekend out on the golf course.
• We walked the course the horses would have to run later .
• The race was cancelled because the course was waterlogged .
• He ran the course in less than an hour .
• Flags mark the course the cyclists will be taking.
• 18-yard box
• backstretch
• ground staff
• off his/her line idiom
• out of bounds idiom

course noun ( DEVELOPMENT )

• action They are considering legal action.
• course of action They have not yet decided on a particular course of action.
• measure Measures are in place to prevent flooding.
• step These simple steps will ensure that infections are not spread.
• Once we have committed to this course of action there is no going back.
• We came up against a lot of problems in the course of building our extension .
• In the course of history , love has driven men and women to strange extremes .
• I was grateful for his letter which hastened the course of the enquiry .
• He has been accused of obstructing the course of justice .
• a means to an end idiom
• methodological
• methodologically
• standard operating procedure
• stylistically

course noun ( DIRECTION )

• All attempts at diplomacy have broken down and the two states now appear to be on a collision course.
• He drove in an erratic course down the road .
• Some of the frontier between Germany and Poland follows the course of the river Oder
• The ship held its course.
• Most parents try to steer a middle course between imposing very strict discipline and letting their kids run wild .
• against the current
• circumduction
• cross-country
• direction of travel
• multidirectional
• the right/wrong/other way around idiom

You can also find related words, phrases, and synonyms in the topics:

course noun ( MEAL )

• If you make the main course, I'll make a dessert .
• I've only eaten one course and I'm already full .
• By the time the fourth course was served , I was stuffed to the gills .
• The average cost of a full three-course meal - appetizer , main course and dessert - including tip and a modest wine is about $25.
• I had salmon for my main course.
• accompaniment
• afternoon tea
• amuse-bouche
• English breakfast
• finger buffet
• plat du jour
• ploughman's lunch
• postprandial

course noun ( MEDICAL TREATMENT )

• blister pack
• chemotherapy
• patent medicine
• pharmaceutical
• prescription
• unmedicated
• wonder drug

course noun ( LAYER )

• agglomerate
• prestressed
• unreinforced
• wattle and daub
• weatherboarding

course noun ( BLOOD )

• be dripping with something idiom
• brim with something
• reinjection

course | American Dictionary

Course noun [c] ( direction ), course noun [c] ( development ), course noun [c] ( classes ), course noun [c] ( sports area ), course noun [c] ( meal ), course | business english, examples of course, collocations with course.

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relating to the scientific study of animals, especially their structure

Dead ringers and peas in pods (Talking about similarities, Part 2)

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• course (CLASSES)
• course (SPORTS AREA)
• course (DEVELOPMENT)
• in the course of time
• with the course of time
• course (DIRECTION)
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• course (MEAL)
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