Course Name

Writers at Work: A Review for Professionals - Part 4: Achieving a Professional Style

Contact Hours: 10

Course Description

This is the last of four review courses that together provide an in-depth review of grammar, punctuation, mechanics, sentence structure and style. While it is preferable that students take all four courses in sequence, they may also pick and choose the individual courses that suit their needs. Part IV of the review will help the student develop an emphatic and readable style and to design visually appealing documents. Exercises, tutoring and mastery quizzes help students ensure that they understand the concepts and can revise their own writing to emphasize important points, flow logically, and appeal to the eye. Topics include managing sentence emphasis, creating parallel structures in sentences and paragraphs, maintaining flow and focus in sentences and paragraphs, and designing documents. This course does not require a book. All material is delivered via web resources and through an instructor generated curriculum.

Outcome

The student demonstrates the ability to identify and revise unfocused and awkward writing and revise into clear and easy to understand text. The student demonstrates the ability to identify and correct common word usage errors. The student demonstrates an ability to use proofreading techniques to find errors and polish a piece. The student understands the principles that are used to design documents that are visibly appealing.

Assessment

Writing exercises allow students to practice what they learn in each lesson. Written essay assignments are sent to the instructor for written feedback.

Outline

Week 1: student will review the basics of sentence and paragraph structure (topic and supporting sentences, paragraph transition). The lesson includes a writing assignment. Week 2: The student will learn about common word usage errors, such as errors in homonym usage. Week 3: The student will learn about paragraph development, specifically compare/contrast. The lesson includes a writing assignment. Week 4: Through reading and completing exercises, students will learn about document design and effective ways to proofread a document.