Genres
Michele defines genre as the style of something. In writing, there are various genres, including argumentative essays, research papers, letters and emails, among others. To determine a genre of writing, we can first look at the type of audience we are addressing and the message we want to be conveyed. For successful writing, we have to figure out the genre we want to focus on first. To determine the expectation of the assignment, we can talk to the instructors about what they want, since their instructions may be unclear. It may be a nerve-wracking experience, but it will be beneficial in the end. We should also familiarize ourselves with the genre we are working on. For example, a blog is usually informal with more casual writing.
We should understand what the final product will look like and the sources needed. Knowing who will read the work is also a way to determine their expectations since it may be an instructor, peers or the general public. Finally, understanding the purpose of the assignment is vital. My Unit 1 essay is an expository one. Its expectations are that I explain my interpretation of technology and its various effects sufficiently. It is a personal response which is why it is written in the first-person perspective. Another expectation of this genre of essay is that adequate evidence is provided to back up points. Points are also kept brief and concise with relevant examples and explanations being provided. Finally, one of the vital expectations is that the thesis statement is produced and presented clearly.
To revise this essay, I will implement some strategies that will improve my work. First, I will use the global revision strategy. I will think about my topic, genre, thesis statement, audience and the purpose of the essay and the improvements that can be made to them. Next, I will focus on editing. For example, how my points are organized, whether my ideas are unified, if the analysis is relevant and if sources are accurate. Another strategy is the copy-edit which delves into the finer details of my paper. I will look into the wordiness, clarity, flow, any headings and subtitles used. Finally, I will proofread my work. It will get rid of any errors in the paper and improve the flow of the work. The topic has to meet the instructor’s expectations and be something with that I can discuss with evidence. My main idea should be focused and not be too general and fit seamlessly into the expository genre. My writing should meet my goal, which is explaining how technology impacts human lifestyles.
I will also continuously check the expectations of the assignment to make sure I am meeting them. I will also consult my peers and instructor as I progress with the work to ensure I am on the right track. My paragraphs will be cross-checked to ensure they contain pertinent points and explanations. They should also transition well into each other to make the work easily readable and enjoyable. The sources will be well cited and be correct. Plagiarism in the paper will be avoided, and references will be correctly cited. Finally, I will have my classmates, and other peers read through my writing. They will be honest individuals who will tell me what they think about the quality of my work. By following these revision strategies, I will be able to submit well-written and thought out essays that meet their expectations.