Chapter 8 - Writing

• Learning to write well pays
• Good writing is a marketable skill
• Writing is an essential skill in the age of information
• Three-phase process for writing any paper or speech:

~ Phase 1 -- Getting ready to write

Step 1: List and schedule writing tasks (break the goal into smaller steps)

Step 2: Generate ideas (brainstorm with a group, Speak it, Use free writing [write without stopping]

Step 3: Refine initial ideas

• Select a topic and working title
• Write a thesis statement (summarize in one concise sentence)

Step 4: Consider audience, purpose, and content (You're more effective when you know exactly what your purpose is

Step 5: Do initial research (get an overview of the subject)

Step 6: Outline (Purpose of an outline is to save time)

Step 7: Research (Use 3x5 cards, Sense the time to begin writing --may be before you have ALL information or may be after)

~ Phase 2 -- Writing the first draft

Remember that the first draft is not for keeps

Write freely (avoid stopping to edit your work)

Be yourself (let go of the urge to sound "scholarly", write the way you talk)

Let your inner writer take over

Ease into it

Make writing a habit

Respect your deep mind (part of the process of writing takes place outside our awareness)

Get physical (go for a walk -- take breaks)

Use affirmations and visualizations (imagine what your finished paper will look like)

Hide it in your drawer for a while (Rewrite -- rewrite -- rewrite)

~ Phase 3 -- Revising your draft

Step 1: Cut (cut the passages that don't contribute to your purpose)

Step 2: Paste (rearrange what's left of your paper so it flows logically)

Step 3: Fix (Look at individual words and phrases)

Step 4: Prepare (type your paper following an acceptable format, bind your paper with a paper or plastic cover)

Step 5: Proof (Read your paper out loud, Ask a friend to proof your paper)

Plagiarism

• There’s a branch of law known as intellectual property.  This field is based on the idea that original works, such as speeches, publications, and artistic creations are not free for the taking.
• Anyone who borrows from these works is obligated to acknowledge the work’s creator.
• Using another person’s words without giving proper credit is called plagiarism.
• Plagiarism can have big-time consequences (ranging from a failing grade to expulsion).

Writing and delivering speeches --- Speeches are usually organized in three main parts:

1. Introduction

• Sets the stage for your audience (gets their attention)

2. Main body

• The content of your paper (70% to 90% of most speeches)

3. Conclusion

• At the end of the speech, summarize your points and draw your conclusion
• The first and last parts of a speech are the most important

Using Notes:

• Put key words on a few 3x5 cards
• Put numbers on the cards
• Use standard outline notes

Ways to practice

• The key to successful public speaking is practice
• Practice in the room where you deliver your speech
• List materials you will need for your speech
• Record your speech and listen to it
• Videotape your presentation

Delivering the speech

• For some beginners, the biggest problem in delivering a speech is nervousness.
• If this is your concern, give yourself a hand by knowing your material inside and out.
• Focus on the audience rather than on your own comfort level.
• Look for signals that they are at ease and receiving your message.
• Speak loudly enough to be heard and maintain eye contact.
• Imagine you are talking to an individual in the room.
• Use audiovisual aids.

After you speak

• Review and reflect upon your performance.
• What can you do to improve your performance in the future?

Study Guide for Test #1

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