Writing Effectively Chapter 2 Writing Effectively Bedford Reader
Writing Effectively “Chapter 2: Writing Effectively. ” Bedford Reader, Fifth Edition. Boston: Bedford St. Martin’s, 2003. 33 -48. Mrs. Johnson Advanced Composition
The Writing Situation �The main components of the writing situation are: �Subject �Audience �Purpose �Other possible components that might affect the writing situation include: �Length �Deadline �These components may be dictated by the writing assignment; however, many times you will have to define the components on your own.
The Writing Process �The writing process is cyclical; there really is never a “final” draft, just a “final enough” draft. �The writing process is unique for each person. �The three rough stages common to most writing process patterns are: �Discovery �Drafting �Revision
Discovery � In this stage, you will begin to generate ideas for writing. � You will critically examine any text or image that is a part of the writing assignment. � Of key importance is to let yourself go: do not worry at this stage about grammar, sentence structure, etc. �Worrying about the “small stuff” at this stage will only stop up the flow of ideas. � Possible ways to generate ideas include: �Journal Writing: As a regular habit, this can “limber up your writing muscles, giving you more confidence and flexibility as a writer. ” Write your own thoughts. �Freewriting: Write without stopping for a set period of time. �Experimenting with the methods of development: Try to look at the subject through multiple lenses: narrative, descriptive, comparison/contrast, definition, etc. Write
Drafting �Drafting involves “writing out sentences and paragraphs, linking ideas, [and] focusing them. ” �During drafting, you will look at the relationships among your ideas, locate details to support them, and aim to give your essay an overall purpose. �Suggestions for drafting: �Give yourself time! �Make sure your work area is free of distraction. �Allow for an open mind; let ideas come together. �Work in the order best for you. (It is OK to skip your intro and come back later if it is bothering you!) �Keep your eyes on the end goal; don’t worry too much at this point about the little mistakes.
Drafting (continued) �The thesis is an important element that should be developed early during drafting. �The thesis is the main idea, or focus, of your writing, usually stated in a thesis sentence (or two). �It is often placed in the introduction, but could very well be anywhere in the essay or even simply implied. �Important qualities of a thesis: �It asserts an opinion or takes a position on the subject. �It projects a single main idea or focus (possibly broken into parts, or a “blueprint”). �It is neither too broad nor too narrow.
Revision � During this stage, the writer must begin considering the audience in his/her writing. �Try to focus on seeing your writing as the reader will. � There are two important parts to this stage: �Revision: Consider the big, sweeping elements of your essay here; look at ideas, organization, tone. � Questions to consider: Will my purpose be clear to readers? Have I achieved my purpose? What is my thesis? Have I proven my thesis? Is the essay unified (do all parts relate to thesis)? Is the essay coherent? Will readers be able to follow the organization? Have I given enough detail or example? Is the tone appropriate for my purpose? Have I used methods of development effectively? �Editing: Consider the finer points of your essay; look at transitions, sentence structure, word choice, grammar, spelling. � Questions to consider: Do paragraph breaks help readers get necessary information? Do transitions guide the reader smoothly from idea to idea? Are sentences smooth and concise? Do the sentences use rhetorical technique to clarify meaning? Do the words say what I mean, and are the words descriptive? Are grammar and punctuation correct? Are any words misspelled?
Collaboration �Collaboration involves “voicing, listening to, and arguing about ideas. ” �Collaboration can include: �Reading, analyzing, and discussing model essays. �Engaging in peer revision and editing activities. �When you collaborate, remember: �You have valuable feedback to provide to your peers, as they do for you. �The more you collaborate, the easier it will become and the better your feedback (both given and received) will be. �Constructive responses (both complimentary and corrective) are necessary.
- Slides: 8