Informative+Writing

Chapter 9: Reporting Information __ Components of informative writing: __ -Find information: research your topic and use outside sources (articles, reviews, interviews, etc.) -Interpret information: “construct meaning through selecting what and what not to include” (Faigely 110). -Explain information -Explore questions and problems: “The goal in such writing is not the ending but the journey. Difficult issues often leave you conflicted; readers appreciate writers who deal honestly with those conflicts.” (110). __ Keys to informative writing __ -Narrow the topic -Start fast -Keep readers interested -Define key terms -Provide relevant examples, illustrations, and details -Remain objective: “Writers whose purpose is to inform usually stay in the background, taking the stance of an impartial, objective observer. An objective tone and the absence of bias help readers to believe the information is accurate and the writer is trustworthy.” (Faigley 111). -Provide accurate information -Document the sources of information -Conclude with strength -Explain with charts, graphs or images ** __ How to write to inform: __ ** ** 1. **** Assess the writing task and begin research  ** -Analyze the assignment -Consider your audience -Find a topic: what do you already know? What resources can you use to find additional information? ** 2. **** Choose a topic and write a thesis  ** -Make a list of issues, questions, or problems associated with the topic area. -Make idea maps about possible topics. -Choose a topic you will enjoy writing about and one that your readers will enjoy reading about. -Discuss possible choices with your peers, co-workers, or instructors. -Choose a topic that either you know something about or for which you can find the information you need. -Narrow your topic and write a working thesis that describes what you plan to report or explain. EVALUATE YOUR THESIS (137). 3. ** Write a draft ** -Organize your information: Chronological order Identify key concepts and relate them (can use an idea map as a guide) Compare/Contrast -Make a working outline: List the sections of your essay, in the order that you expect them to appear Write 2 or 3 complete sentences describing the content and purpose of each section Now, review your outline. -Think about a title: “An effective title motivates your readers to want to read what you have written. Be as specific as you can. -Draft an introduction that will make readers interested in your subject -Draft a conclusion that does more than summarize -Consider what visual aid(s) you want to use to add support and clarity to your writing 4. ** Revise, Revise, Revise ** -Reorganize your ideas for clarity -Add detail or further explanation where needed -Cut material that distracts from your thesis -Check that all key terms are defined -Frame your report with an introduction that interests readers and a conclusion that makes a    point or raises an interesting question -Check that any sources are appropriately quoted or summarized and that they are documented correctly. -Revise the title to be more accurate and to make readers more interested -Review the visual presentation of your report for readability and maximum impact. -PROOFREAD carefully