Strategies for Successful Writing- Chapter 3 & 4

Module Quiz: What does the T in the FACT strategy stand for?

(A) Transition (B) Test (C)Take out (D)Think The answer is: (B) Test

Module Quiz: Which step in the writing process comes after writing the thesis statement?

(A) Understand the assignment (B) Zero in on the topic (C) Organize the information (D) Write the first draft The answer is: (D) Write the first draft

Develop a thesis statement

A thesis statement presents the main idea of a piece of writing, usually in one sentence. The thesis statement points you in a specific direction, helping you to stay on track and out of tempting byways. In addition, it tells your reader what to expect.

Zeroing in on the Topic

A topic is one small segment of a subject. Choose a familiar topic or one you can learn enough about in the time available.

Module Quiz: True or False? Peer review are only helpful for the one being reviewed.

Answer is False

Writing Process

Basic stages: Develop sound ideas Create uniformity in writing Establish organization Provide a guideline to follow

Proof-Reading & Revising

Creates a polished final version Catch any contextual gaps Identify formatting error Ensure the purpose is properly communicated Preparing to revise: Step away from your draft and come back to it a day or two later Write down your purpose and audience Write down possible alternated discussions Read your essay at least three times Write down any ideas or phrases that come to you in writing After Proof- Reeding: View the overall essay, rather than its separate parts Ask yourself critical questions * Does the beginning mesh with the end? * Does the essay wander?

Fact Strategy

F (Does the whole essay FIT together? A (Is your essay complete; does it meet the needs of the reader? ADD the appropriate sentence(s) C (As you revise, CUT away any clutter that is not related to the essay) T (The text should flow from one idea to another, TEST the organization by outlining major and minor points.)

Understanding the assignment

Following directions such as knowing your topic, length of your essay, and format if required. If you do not understand the directions ask for clarification.

Organize the information

Organized your ideas, by grouping same ideas together and to create a working flow. There are programs to help keep your ideas together such as the flexible notes system and you can create an outline.

Peer Review

Proven helpful for the reviewer and the one being reviewed Insight into the reader's mind Lends a fresh set of eyes Result in an effective essay Heighten awareness

Following six proven strategies that may writer use.

Tapping your personal resources Keeping a journal Sorting out a subject Asking questions Freewriting Brainstorming

Write the first draft

The writing should go rather quickly. After all, you have a topic you're qualified to write about, a thesis statement that indicates your purpose, enough information to develop it, and a written plan to follow. A good foundation: A topic you are qualified to write A thesis statement that indicates your purpose A writing plan to follow Enough information to develop it Anything you initially write can be changed later Free write if it makes you feel better Some Suggestions: Start writing without worrying about anything but getting ideas down Keep scratch paper handy to jot down new ideas that may come to you as you write, as well as ideas that don't fit the flow If you get stuck with the introduction, move on to the other parts of the paper and come back to it Write your details out into sentences (3-5 each) and include transitional statements betwee main ideas.

Gathering information

This is supporting material can include facts, ideas, examples, observation, sensory impressions, memories and the like. Brainstorming Research and reading Talking with others

The writing process consists of the following

Understanding the assignment Zeroing in on a topic Gathering information Organizing the information Develope a thesis statement

Peer Review Checklist

What is the main point? What is the biggest problem and biggest strength? Is there any information that doesn't seem to fit the main point or the audience? Are there any questions that you had that the writer did not answer? Should there be any additional explanations? Does the paper hold your interest throughout? Did you ever find yourself confused? Were there any parts of the essay that were unclear or vague?