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[rjm3u]

In my field of English literature, it is standard practice to include a two-page dissertation abstract with the job letter and C.V., even if it is not requested. My initial application to X Univ. included letter, C.V., and said abstract. Now I have received a request for additional materials that reads: "a dissertation or book prospectus plus one chapter".

Do you think they are asking for the kind of dissertation prospectus one would prepare for a dissertation-year fellowship application (~3500 wds)--or are they referring to the standard two-page document? Should I write to ask?

Many thanks!

[sciencephd]

I'm obviously not in your field, but it is perfectly reasonable to ask for clarification from the person who sent you the email.  They are really the only ones who can definitively answer this question.

[snowbound]

Sounds like they are asking for a writing sample, which suggests you have at least made the first cut!  And they want it to be from your diss rather than a seminar paper (a way of warding off whose diss is not substantially underway yet).  I'd imagine your two-page abstract would work fine, along with the chapter, but you should of course check with them to be sure.  I'm sure you received the standard request sent out to all those whom they want writing samples from (many of whom will not have included a diss abstract).   

[pink_]

Have you asked your advisor?
Sometimes writing sample requests are as much to assess the status of the project as they are to get a sense of you as a scholar.  It sounds to me like they want to get a sense of how close you are to finishing the diss and turning it into a book.

[jacaranda_]

Sometimes writing sample requests are as much to assess the status of the project as they are to get a sense of you as a scholar.  It sounds to me like they want to get a sense of how close you are to finishing the diss and turning it into a book.

Yup.  And just ask them what they want exactly.