For my correspondence assignments, I learned how to format, compose, and analyze my own writing for rhetorical and persuasive effects. I was able to implement the following course learning outcomes:
- Course Learning Outcome One: Analyze and produce writing genres commonly found in the professional world
- Course Learning Outcome Two: Create professional documents that use plain English (clear, concise, and grammatically correct)
- Course Learning Outcome Four: Create professional documents that use design – standard formats, layout, use of graphics, etc.
For both correspondence assignments I was able to analyze and produce business letters in the correct standard format. I learned how to format areas ranging from the letterhead, to the return and inside addresses, to the greetings and closings.
For the persuasive letter , I learned how to implement “Attention, Interest, Desire, and Action” as a rhetorical tool for creating effective and compelling arguments. For both letters, I learned the importance of clear, concise, and, concrete writing in order to express my thoughts in just a few words rather than lengthy paragraphs. I was able to implement these principles in my writing and also learned the importance of courteous and constructive writing, especially for the “bad news letter”.
I have already been able to implement what I have learned from this assignment in my own professional contexts through letters with scholarship committees. I was able to format my correspondence with confidence that I had what I needed within my letter.
Embedded below is my correspondence assignments, with the persuasive letter first followed by the bad news letter:
