LibGuides: Writing Basics: Grammar: Streaming Videos

Library Video Databases

The following library databases can be accessed from the Databases page.

Alexander Street Video - Multidisciplinary collection contains thousands of videos.
Films on Demand - Provides streaming films from sources such as Films for the Humanities and Sciences and Cambridge Educational
Kanopy - Provides streaming videos on a variety of subjects; includes titles from PBS, BBC, Criterion Collection, Media Education Foundation and more.

Here is a FULL LIST of library databases that include streaming videos.

Quick Links

NoodleTools This link opens in a new window
An online research management platform including a bibliography composer and note-taking features.
What is it?
NoodleTools is a resource that allows students to evaluate resources, build accurate citations, archive source material, take notes, outline topics, and prepare to write. it generates accurate MLA, APA, and Chicago/Turabian references with options to annotate and archive lists of documents. It offers a visual 'tabletop' to manipulate, tag and pile notecards, then connect them in outlines to prepare for writing.
Why use it?
Use this resource if you are looking for an all-in-one resource to assist with note-taking, citations, and pre-writing projects.

Writing Center

Extra English practice
Alexander Street Video - Series
Learning a language is hard. So we're here to help by making it fun! Watch our videos to practice grammar, listening, speaking, pronunciation and vocabulary. We like to learn by playing games and having fun, so watch what we do and then try it yourselves!
Grammar follies
Films on Demand - 24:15
The Standard Deviants look at sentence problems, including sentence fragments, comma splices, and run-on sentences. Then we examine common grammatical traps, such as tense shifts, vague pronoun references, and faulty parallels. We'll wrap things up with a look at acceptable grammar "errors"—like the use of contractions, splitting infinitives, and using prepositions at the end of sentences. Topics include: Sentence Fragments, Comma Splices, Run-On Sentences, Tense Shifts, Vague Pronoun References, Faulty Parallels, and Acceptable Errors.
Introduction to grammar: Parts of speech (1)
Films on Demand - 26:00
Can a noun have a number? What do demonstrative pronouns demonstrate? And is an article really an adjective? After a concise explanation of grammar and SEAE—Standard Edited American English—this program explains the ins and outs of common, proper, compound, and demonstrative nouns; personal, possessive, and demonstrative pronouns; and adjectives, including the tiny article. Singular and plural subjects are also covered.
Skills: Analyzing word choice
Alexander Street Video - 2:00
Just as painters carefully select brushstrokes and colors, writers meticulously choose words to convey emotions, create tone, and shape meaning. By understanding the impact of word choice, you can express yourself more clearly in both speech and writing.
Writing essentials
Films on Demand - 23:25
This program shows how effective written communication is possible for anyone, even those who struggle to complete a simple fax or e-mail. Methods for improvement include gauging the needs of the reader, keeping prose short and simple, emphasizing benefits, avoiding jargon and overblown language, employing a confident yet respectful tone, and more. Viewable/printable discussion questions are available online.
Writing for different genres
Films on Demand - 14:46
This program identifies the characteristics of various storytelling genres, from thrillers to fantasy and science fiction. Students will encounter precise instruction on the features common to specific genres to assist them in creative writing and literary analysis. Delivered in a light-hearted tone, viewers will find themselves entertained and challenged to apply these principles to their writing.