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?