Week 7

Note to self- Saving a post is not the same as Sending a post. So annoying finding this in my draft box still!

Everythings an Argument Chapter 20
While we often like to use information obtained from other's sources to enhance our writing... it is great to be aware of how plagiarism can be assumed or misconstrued.  When I write shortly after reading a related assignment, I will take notice to how similar my writing is compared to the author who may have sparked the idea(s) I am sharing.  There is nothing wrong with borrowing ideas and using them to enhance my writing...but I do not want to misrepresent myself or plagiarize. Whether it be MLA , APA or any other citing format.. it is crucial to give credit where credit is due. Citing is something I don't have a ton of experience with.. so I play it safe and cite more often than not.  Pages 438 and 439 were great because I was able to see specifics as to when to cite and when not to.

I also liked our second reading because it reminded me to be careful and to further take into consideration my audience. When using quotes, I didn't realize how often they are inserted often times "Out of the blue". I am a pretty forgiving reader.. but it can be distracting when I am not clear on the exact reason for the quote, or the source. When writing I proof read, I often realize I write with full knowledge or my own clear perspective, however, the reader does not always follow in suit. It will be beneficial for me to make sure I make it clear to the reader why I am using the quotes I choose.

Thesis questions

1. Using "Buzz words" emphasized by bold type is a stream lined process to navigate an audience to the exact intentions of the advertiser.


2. In mental health service advertisements,  catering to the ethos, pathos, and logos through tone and style is instrumental to gaining clients trust and business.

Week 6 Readings

In the chapter Academic Arguments I liked reading the example of an "Abstract". I read various texts at times an tend to get so confused when there is too much language not written for the common reader. Not only is this frustrating but I lose interest in the topic. Although backing up arguments with facts and various data points are great, it is a good reminder to not be too scientific in presentation when it is not necessary.  I also liked the section on developing an academic argument. Sometimes the process can seem so daunting but when broken down in sub sections I feel way more confident to tackle a challenge of an academic paper/argument.

Understanding Rhetoric made a great point in reminding a writer to not forget the importance of knowing your audience and speaking to them in a conversational manner. I find Understanding Rhetoric an enjoyable read because it is written casual and with a conversation feel. This makes me not feel so distant from the text. I am more engaged and gain a personal connection. I try to write similarly myself. When writing I also try and take a balanced approach.. validating all sides of an argument while presenting my point of view in a non offensive way. "Who, what, where, how and why" were points I was taught to always address..with these in mind I think a writer has the best potential for a solid argument.

I used to be impatient with the writing process, more specifically the draft process. About a year ago my friend was able to articulate to me the benefit of the first draft. Much like Shitty First Drafts, I had to embrace the idea that a first draft was just that.. a DRAFT! Once I decided to not judge my works and solely focus on just getting content on paper my writing improved. The first draft is a starting point for all ideas that may or may not have relevance to the end goal of what is being written. However, by writing without judgement and leaning on a friend or two to help edit, a first draft can be a great entry way and foundation to a masterpiece.

I think So What?Who Cares? piggy backs  the points made in Academic Arguments and Understanding Rhetoric. We are reminded to be aware of what points we are trying to address to the audience and presented with sentence structures helpful in that goal. While writing, it is a great practice to stop and evaluate what questions are being answered.

Potential Interview Questions.

Who was your primarily audience you wanted to speak to?

Why did you have two pictures on your homepage?

What did you want the viewer to connect with most on your webpage?

How did you decide which pictures to use / is there a reason only Caucasians are shown?

Why did you emphasize with bold type certain words?

What was your goal in the first paragraph of your site?

What has been your client response to your webpage/ have you received comments?

Why did you choose the “About” section to not be introduced until 4^th tab?

How do you view the testimonials page/ what do you want the audience to take from reading them?

California Coastal Counseling is at the top of your homepage…. Yet you are advertising for yourself.. why not have your name at top of page?

There are multiple references to your email/phone numbers etc… is there a reason why you have it stated beyond the contact tab?

Did you design the page layout yourself/ if not, who helped you and what was the thought process behind where different info/tabs are located on the page?

Week 5 Reading Response

I enjoyed reading chapter 9 of “They Say, I Say”.  I have had many battles writing in a formula based style. Although I highly appreciate a well-constructed sentence, clear and pointed, I am flexible and open to many forms of language expression. I think it is easy for us to get distracted by lesser points when a sentence is a bit too casual in form, however, we must take into account various influences the writer may have encountered, thus his or hers style of conversation. I like the point made about “First make your point in the language of a professional field, and then make it again in everyday language…”. This is a great suggestion because it gives the reader a baseline understanding and limits the possibility of miscommunication or words being lost in translation (“Lost in Translation” is a great movie FYI).

In chapter 11 I was reminded how reiteration of points in conversation is helpful for the listener to know which points are being referenced. I have a habit of internally understanding how my thoughts connect to the topic, however, this does not mean the listener(s) understand where and what points I am relating to. I have found myself confused and not clear as to why my thoughts seem so abstract at time. In reflection, I can see how a simple response to something that has been already stated would help the audience know which page of topic I am referring to. It may even be beneficial for me to summarize my points instead of assuming the audience understands me in full context. My point is this: not everyone understands the fullness in what we are trying to express. Sometimes we have to assist the audience.

“How to Read Like a Writer” was an underscoring of points made in class.  Primarily by reading like a writer, the reader gets to experience more of what the writers intentions are as well as experience their works with less judgment. The more we can see from their perspective, the more we can fully understand what is trying to be expressed. This does not mean we must agree, but it does allow us to connect a bit easier. Also, we are further learning how to know our audience and speak to them so that our message as a writer is being received. What is the point of communication if it is only one direction?

Artifact Summary Based off Webpage

http://www.calcoastalcounseling.com/index.html

The homepage of this site immediately sets the tone for the audience.

In a large font “California Coastal Counseling” heads the top. Underneath in the same color the words “Psychotherapy, counseling, coaching” are clearly stated leaving no room for misinterpretation of the intent for this site.

The pictures scrolling are of men and women of various ages smiling, giving the impression that the services provided help make their clients happy. Although there are age and gender differences in the pictures there is not variety in ethnicity.  I plan on asking the therapist I interview if there was a planned reason for that.  The perception of one ethnicity represented could be misunderstood to mean that they do not support services to non “White” clients.  This may be a strategy for a particular demographic(s), but I do not think it’s the intent.

The conventions seem to be on par for the services provided. There is an intro to what their services can help with, containing highlighted in bold “Buzz” words catching the attention of the reader. I think this is great because it doesn’t allow the audience to wander. It is direct and pointed. Again, I think this helps the reader know the emphasis this specific therapist is keen to. By having bold words, one’s pathos/emotions are engaged.

On her homepage she has two pictures of herself. And while both pictures are warm and welcoming, I am not sure why there is a need for two. I will ask about that.

The therapist I am choosing to work with is an African American woman, which makes my previous inquiry about the scrolling pictures even more confusing.

Mrs. Williams (MFT) definitely gives me the impression she is knowledgeable based on her therapist license info readily displayed with the “Verified by Psychology Today” stamp. She also follows the traditional convention(s) of having a “Learn More” section. This further helps the reader feel the depth of knowledge. Within the “Learn more” section one could choose to click on different tabs further engaging the reader and bringing more information.

In more than one place.. The reader can contact the office to make an appointment or receive a newsletter. This shows a welcoming to new clients and a sharing of information.

Although this homepage may be organized in its own unique fashion, I think it is fitting of the genre of most therapists. 

People do not contact a therapist unless they typically are having emotional strain… The “Testimonial” and “About” tabs along with the bold words are a straight shot to ethos and pathos! By expressing her background in the about section the reader feels warm and trusting of the therapist. The testimonials confirm the confidence one wants in their therapy and the positive outcome they are looking for. I can clearly sense the therapist wanted her readers to feel safe and confident she could bring forth the services the clients need.

Ethos is very present in her “About” section. After reading I felt 100% positive this therapist in particular was working with a high level of ethics and care for her clients. She was wise to share the leadership roles she has and recognitions she’s has received. I don’t think many readers would doubt she is a professional and has the support of her professional community. She also states how many years she has been practicing which further reinforces her knowledge and credibility.

The logos aspect of her website is interwoven throughout. She does not seem to directly solicit her business.. but after reading her site, one can’t help but connect enough to see that if you are dealing with emotional stresses.. she can help. I think this falls into the logos category because it would be difficult to not logically conclude she has the skill set and desire to help you (the reader).

Her use of language is professional yet not intimidating.. I think this is great since many could be nervous to explore therapy! Her tone seems very relaxed in nature and non-threatening. This style of approach is wise since the topic of her profession is sensitive and needs to be presented in a gentle fashion. I look forward to receiving hard copy artifacts to further analyze.

Week 4 readings

I like pages 114-119 of Everything's an Argument. I often find starting a writing piece to be one of the more challenging aspects of writing in any capacity. Within the above-mentioned pages there are great suggestions to think about prior to writing. I especially liked the sections on "The claim" and "Evidence of the claim". I have a habit of announcing evidence of a claim as opposed to sharing specifics to support such claims. I also tend to be a bit esoteric in my writing, which can be challenging for a reader if I am not clear and pointed or at bare minimum presenting supporting statements. Reading page 396 was great because it presented multiple thoughts for me to be aware of next time I am finding myself stuck or not sure why I am not clear. 

I also am often confused by the marketing/advertisements I notice. I rarely see a direct correlation of ad to product. Of course the professionals of marketing know what they are doing but I seem to not "Get it" many of the times. Though Bob Dylan does not automatically seem the best fit for Victoria's Secret, I think he is great. Just like his music, women and their relationship to their body and undergarments are not always clear and meant for just anyone to be aware of or understand for that matter. There is poetry to Bob Dylan, a navigation of emotions, a visual experience within his lyrics. The mystery of what a woman wears is in itself a visual experience. The perversion of my imagination in combination with the beauty of "The female" is poetic though not always graceful... Bob Dylan sings in a tone that is not always graceful but nonetheless magical.