Questions We Can Help You To Answer

Paper instructions:

Prompt
Critical to the analysis of writing is understanding the tools – the writing techniques – used by authors to craft articles. To properly analyze a reading, you must be able to:
•    Identify the article’s message and the writing techniques used by an author
•    Analyze why an author chose the writing techniques he or she used
•    Explain how the writing techniques improved the story and connected with the target audience(s)

Choose one of the assigned readings for Unit 1. Craft an argument about the use of writing techniques to support the article’s overall message. As mentioned above: IDENTIFY – ANALYZE – EXPLAIN. Your thesis should reflect the importance of an author using appropriate writing techniques to help convey his or her intended message. 

Requirements
•    Develop an argument that is supported by analysis and textual evidence. Summary without Analysis = F
•    Write with purpose, not to fill space. Emphasize clarity and coherence over complexity and confusion. 
•    Present your paper properly – refer to the Presentation Requirements handout.
•    Write a thesis statement that states your argument and directly responds to the prompt.
•    Include a minimum of three key points to support the thesis, as part of your well-developed argument. 
♣    An additional point may result in a higher grade (if the additional point adds depth to your overall argument) or a lower grade (if the additional point is weak and diminishes your overall argument).
•    Support each point with analysis and a direct quote from the article. 
•    Align each sentence in your paper with one of the 10 elements of the paper framework discussed in class.  : Commonly Used Writing Techniques
A carpenter uses construction tools for construction projects. A writer uses writing tools for writing projects. Choosing the proper tool in either instance can make the difference between a successful or failed project. Becoming familiar with your tools – either as a builder or a writer – helps to ensure you use your skills to their greatest potential. A proper analysis of either finished product is possible only with a strong understanding of the tools and techniques used 

With construction, a carpenter uses more than one tool or technique to finish each project. So does a writer. No one can build a house – or write effectively – using just one tool. 

Expectations for writing techniques 
Whether analyzing an article or crafting your essay, an understanding of writing techniques is essential:
•    Identification – be able to identify when they are used
•    Comprehension – be able to understand how they are used
•    Application – be able to explain how and why they are used

Commonly used writing tools and techniques
These are some – not all – of the writing techniques used by writers.
•    Citing statistics
•    Citing facts 
•    Citing expert opinion 
•    Choosing a narrator / point of view / perspective
•    Choosing a tone
•    Identifying with the reader
•    Using unusual / exciting details
•    Using strong statements / hyperbole
•    Using quotations
•    Using cause and effect
•    Using compare and contrast 
•    Using chronological order 
•    Using questions 
•    Using lists
•    Using anecdotes
•    Using transitional words
•    Using inflammatory language
•    Using imagery
•    Using metaphor / simile / analogy
•    Using vulgarity / crude language for effect
•    Using repetition
•    Using call and response
•    Using prognostication
•    Using rebuttal