Reflection on Open Letter

Milosevic, Peter. "Writing A Letter" 2012
Public Domain

In blog post below, I answer five questions from the Student's Guide (Pg. 253-256) regarding the open letter draft. This post will also be the last post for this class... which is sad but relieving.

•  Did you demonstrate an ability to think about your writing and yourself as a writer

This is an odd question for me, especially when this course usually asks the "ability" of other writers or my peers. I think that my draft was an experiment were I made a generalized summery of my experiences in the 109H course and gave a few points of "growth". From there I used my peers comments and information from prior posts to revise my draft. When I was creating the final draft, I had to avoid my habitual writing qualities, such as pointing out information I had taken out of the class but not clarifying the effects this information had on my writing process. I was sure to elaborate on all the point I brought up. 

• Did you provide analysis of your experiences, writing assignments, or concepts you have learned?

For most of the letter, I analyzed how I was introduced to new writing processes and how I implemented the new information into my writing style. I spent a good portion of the draft discussing how I adjusted my approach to introductions and conclusions. This was probably due to the clashing of information that learned in high school and in the 109H course. I felt that I learned more detailed and meaningful information in the 109H course rather than the A.P classwork, so I really had to elaborate on the "why" factor.

• Did you provide concrete examples from your own writing (either quotes from your writing or rich descriptions of your writing process)?

I mostly quoted from my previous blog posts and used a few sentences from the Student's Guide. I usually compared my previous understanding on certain topics- genre, blogs, social media- with the content we learned in class. It was mostly an indication of how misinformed I was prior to entering the class, which I would then indicate growth by quoting/referring to my blog posts or projects.

• Did you explain why you made certain choices and whether those choices were effective?

I mostly indicated where I have grown as a writer. That in term would lead into the "choices" made in my writing process; such as, avoiding certain vocabulary terms, adding a more meaningful conclusion to my projects- rather than restating the thesis- and avoiding blanket writing which ignores the audience. Once I abandoned my old writing techniques, I believe created more effective rhetorical pieces that understands the target audiences and uses a series of rhetorical strategies to persuade/dissuade that audience.

• Did you use specific terms and concepts relating to writing and the writing process?

I mostly focused on genres and rhetorical techniques. I found that the projects involving the analysis of these two subjects advanced me as a writer. Though they may seem broad, I made sure to refer to the rhetorical analysis project and the QRG to explain how theses topics effected my work. The QRG introduced me to a new writing style, while the rhetorical analysis project made me research my audience before critiquing my author of choice.  

Draft of Open Letter

Marie-Lan Ngyunen. "Fencing Final" 2013
Public Domain

Below is the link to my Draft to my Open Letter final. I was able to introduce the subject and thesis pretty well so it should be rather easy to follow and assume to the overall point of the letter. I also introduced it in a more formal tone. Since this is a semi-formal letter, I avoided using "dear" and overly sentimental vocabulary. However, I was able to find a happy median between being too formal or too relaxed. I think the mood of the letter fits the project description.

I didn't use the more structure techniques found in essays in this letter, so avoided using transitions, repeating the thesis, or even presenting a definitive thesis in the introduction. I felt that having an obvious thesis statement or conclusion wouldn't necessarily fit with the genre of this project.

Here is the Link!

I also commented on Kyle's letter and Jayni's letter. 

Reflecting More on My Writing Process

Unknown. "Celebration" July 4, 2009
Public Domain 

1. What were the biggest challenges you faced this semester, overall?

I think the most challenging part of this year was preparing for midterms and trying to juggle the studying involved. I found it rather difficult fitting in any serious studying into my schedule without sacrificing focus to the 109H blog post requirements. I was able to finish all of the posts on time, however I wish I was able to spend more time o the coarse readings and brainstorming the topics of the three projects.  

2. What did you learn this semester about your own time management, writing and editorial skills?

I found that time management was essential in regards to the completion of the posts and creating quality projects. As for my writing and editorial skills, I found that the skills I used in my high school advanced literature and language classes were somewhat useful in this class setting. I had a decent understanding about rhetorical analysis and essay writing, so I applied those skills throughout the semester. Basically, the class gave me more in depth content and information about those previous skills.

3. What do you know about the concept of 'genre'? Explain how understanding this concept is central to being a more effective writer.

A genre is basically the framework or structure of a certain writing piece. And with a genre a reader can expect the different forms of writing conventions that may be employed by the author. These conventions act as a means to effectively introduce the argument or purpose of the essay, article, or blog post. The genre also acts as a window in to the audience type and their opinions/beliefs. From this, reader can better understand why an author employs certain rhetorical techniques in their writing. Understanding genre allows readers to understand purpose and strategy in writing, thus making them less susceptible to fallacious argumentation or less credible claims/evidence. 

4. What skills from this course might you use and/or develop further in the next few years of college coursework?  

I will most likely develop the skill of argumentation and rhetorical analysis, as these skills are essential to my discipline. Furthermore, I plan to advance my writing ability long after this coarse with more writing related classes throughout my freshmen and sophomore years. Also reading articles and highlighting rhetorical strategies within will keep this skill fresh in my brain.

5. What was your most effective moment from this semester in 109H?

I think my most effective moment in this coarse was my QRG presentation and the collection of data to support the claims made in the post. I had to use a variety of source work in order to fin d the most effective data necessary to support my thesis. The sources included library database citations as well as a number of credible online sources. I found that the search for these sources was the most important and time consuming aspect of the project, but the end result was ideal and had substantial evidence to support the main thesis.

6. What was your least effective moment from this semester in 109H? 

I think my least effective moment in this semester was the time management. I always finished my work on time, however I felt that at times I would be overwhelmed by the work or finish an entire section in one day. Had I created a more effective schedule at the beginning of the year, I may have had a better handling of the section work. But, I don't think a calendar would have helped, as my other classes were the main reason I strayed from my planned routine.        

Revisiting My Writing Process

The post below reflects upon one of my first posts from Module I. Compared to my writing capabilities from August, I believe I have grown as a writer and have a better understanding of the process necessary to create quality argumentative/analytical pieces.

Antonio Litterio. "Fountain Pen" 2001
Public Domain

Looking back on the Calendar and Writing Process blog posts, I found that I have become more of a analytical and rhetorical writer, but still have not mastered the time management aspect of this coarse. My original plan for the Calendar post was to use my schedule to my advantage, using the spare time I had between classes to work more on the quality of my blog posts or create a strategy for completing the three projects. However, my schedule began cluttered with personal chores, work, or the occasional test that needed more time out of the planned schedule. What I believe was the source of these issues was the fact that I created a coarse schedule that was unrealistic and ignored my obligations to other classes. However, I did manage to fit in real comprehensive work on the three project during the weekend before the due date as well as miscellaneous days in between,

Regarding the progress with my Writing Process, I found that I am now more analytical in my readings and argumentative processes. Normally when I was given an article, social media post, or a class reading, I would more or less do a superficial analysis or take a broad argumentative position on the subject matter. Now I pay more attention to the rhetorical situation and recognize the target audience of all articles and readings. Plus, I now have a better understanding of the types of argumentative positions.

I believe that my time management has remained fairly constant. However I have improved in terms of my understanding of the level of thought and dedication to assignments. When I initially came to this class, I didn't have a definitive understanding about college life or the work involved. Now, I am more dedicated to the quality of my work and am role contentious about my homework schedule.  

Reflection of Project III

Prabhu B. "Spectacular Reflections" 2007
Public Domain

1. What was specifically revised from one draft to the next?

After reviewing my original document, I found that my argumentation style was beginning to skew. Instead keeping with the refutation argumentation concepts, I started to propose solutions to the issues, support some of the claims made by the article I was reviewing its points, or just going off on tangents. I stuck with the refutation strategy as seen in the quote below.

Ex. The fact in the matter is that Harmon and other anti-sequencing authors are misinformed or misinterpreting the science itself. Why is Harmon and the sequencing opposition misinformed? The most reasonable assumption would be that these opponents are victims of “pop science,” the blind acceptance of facts or fear of new science that has been relentlessly cycled through mass media.

2. Point to global changes: how did you reconsider your thesis or organization?

I kept my original thesis. I found that if I kept to the point I listed while brainstorming I won't have to revise my argumentation style. I think that was the real issue with my draft. I had a thesis that clearly indicated a refutation style argument; but I just didn't stick with the points.

3. What led you to these changes? A reconsideration of audience? A shift in purpose?

Although I did not change my thesis, I did reconsider my audience. I couldn't write an article that used a series of complex statistics to support my claims. Instead I used emotion an ethical appeals in order to indicate the loop holes in my opponent's argumentation. I realized that my audience was the general middle class American who does have a in depth knowledge of gene mapping, so I kept with the basics.

4. How do these changes affect your credibility as an author?

I think it increases/strengthens my credibility, as I write to inform the reader in the strongest way possible. It would be unethical, moreover ridiculous to bombard my reader with complicated statistics on an issue they won't research further into.

5. How will these changes better address the audience or venue?

I will inform the reader in the strongest way possible. It would be ridiculous to bombard my reader with complicated statistics on an issue they won't research further into. Plus, my writing style mirrors a TIME magazine article. It should be simple, visually appealing, and relatively easy to read.

6. Point to local changes: how did you reconsider sentence structure and style?

I kept with my normal sentence structure. I found that is was simple enough for the general reader to follow but also included enough information to support my claims. Normally my sentences were designed to look like the example below.

Ex. However the manuscript eventually shifts from research and data oriented subject matter to the basic theory of genome mapping. That theory states, in layman's terms, that there will come a time where it will be necessary for the human race to engineer its own DNA as its fundamental properties will stand as a limitation to human progress.

7. How will these changes assist your audience in understanding your purpose?

If the reader can understand the topic and issue with less academic vocabulary and more emotional appeals in terms of rhetoric, than a greater portion of my audience will understand the point I am trying to make and support my claims.

8. Did you have to reconsider the conventions of the particular genre in which you are writing?

No, I kept with the style the TIME magazine company used and the final result looked like an extended/special edition of a TIME magazine report.

9. Finally, how does the process of reflection help you reconsider your identity as a writer?

I feel that the draft I create will always be second rate to the final product. I realized that any brainstorming writing I usually make when I want to quickly create a document for this project is not as great or organized compared to a document that I revised for hours and monitored the document's style.  

Publishing Public Argument

Here is my Final Project Three Report!

U.S Mint. "Three-Cent Nickel" 1871
Public Domain

1. Mark with an "x" where you feel your target audience currently stands on the issue (before reading/watching/hearing your argument) below:

←-------------------------------------X--------------|-------------------------X------------------------------->

Strongly                                            Totally neutral                                                    Strongly

agree                                                                                                                          disagree

2. Now mark with an "x" where you feel your target audience should be (after they've read/watched/heard your argument) below:

←----------------------------------------------------|---------------------------------------------X----------->

Strongly                                            Totally neutral                                                    Strongly

agree                                                                                                                          disagree

3. Check one (and only one) of the argument types below for your public argument:

         _______ My public argument establishes an original pro position on an issue of debate.

         _______ My public argument establishes an original con position on an issue of debate.

         _______ My public argument clarifies the causes for a problem that is being debated.

         _______ My public argument proposes a solution for a problem that is being debated.

         _______ My public argument positively evaluate a specific solution or policy under debate (and clearly identifies the idea I'm supporting).

         _____X__ My public argument openly refutes a specific solution or policy under debate (and clearly identifies the idea I'm refuting).

4. Briefly explain how your public argument doesn’t simply restate information from other sources, but provides original context and insight into the situation:

I avoided commentary on the article in question. I simply referred to any relevant information about the issue in quotations or added any previous information in order to support my claim. Most of the article was based on my personal opinion on the issue, which I then supported be referring to outside authors.  

5. Identify the specific rhetorical appeals you believe you've employed n your public argument below:

I believed I used logos and ethos throughout the piece. I tried to debunk my opponent's argument by demeaning the substance behind it; either by referring to the loop holes in the argument or the ridiculousness of the rhetoric involved in the argument/article. 

Ethical or credibility-establishing appeals

                   

 ___x__ Telling personal stories that establish a credible point-of-view

                   

 ___x_ Referring to credible sources (established journalism, credentialed experts, etc.)

                    

____X_ Employing carefully chosen key words or phrases that demonstrate you are credible (proper terminology, strong but clear vocabulary, etc.)

                   

 ___X__ Adopting a tone that is inviting and trustworthy rather than distancing or alienating

                 

 ___X__ Arranging visual elements properly (not employing watermarked images, cropping images carefully, avoiding sloppy presentation)

                   

 ___X__ Establishing your own public image in an inviting way (using an appropriate images of yourself, if you appear on camera dressing in a warm or friendly or professional manner, appearing against a background that’s welcoming or credibility-establishing)

                    

_____ Sharing any personal expertise you may possess about the subject (your identity as a student in your discipline affords you some authority here)

                    

___X__ Openly acknowledging counterarguments and refuting them intelligently

                   

 ___X__ Appealing openly to the values and beliefs shared by the audience (remember that the website/platform/YouTube channel your argument is designed for helps determine the kind of audience who will encounter your piece)

                   

 _____ Other: 

Logical or rational appeals

                    

__X___ Using historical records from credible sources in order to establish precedents, trends, or patterns

                   

 __X___ Using statistics from credible sources in order to establish precedents, trends, or patterns

                   

 _____ Using interviews from stakeholders that help affirm your stance or position

                   

 __X___ Using expert opinions that help affirm your stance or position

                   

 ___X__ Effective organization of elements, images, text, etc.

                   

 ___X__ Clear transitions between different sections of the argument (by using title cards, interstitial music, voice over, etc.)

                   

 ___X__ Crafted sequencing of images/text/content in order to make linear arguments

                   

 ___X__ Intentional emphasis on specific images/text/content in order to strengthen argument

                   

 ___X__ Careful design of size/color relationships between objects to effectively direct the viewer’s attention/gaze (for visual arguments)

                   

Hyperlinks:

• Genetic Testing Company 23andMe Returns to the Market
• Genetic Test Impacts Chemo Choices In Surprising Ways
• What We Learn When We Sequence the Genes of An Entire Nation

Reflection on Project III Draft

Hine, Lewis. "Glass Factory Worker" 1911
Public Domain

Below, I answer a series of questions regarding the Project III draft review. I reviewed the drafts made by Savannah and Mehruba, and found the work they made influential for future revisions in my draft.

• Who reviewed my Project III Draft?

Trey Blocker was the only person to review my draft. I assume that more people will eventually comment on it, but since I am making this post now I can only confirm Trey's contribution.

• What did you think and/or feel about the feedback you received?

Trey was very informative in the draft commentary. he stated that I should keep with the argument style I am aiming for- a rebuttal of an article that discredits my position. Furthermore, I rally need to skim through the draft and remove the excess research data and medical findings statistics. They seem to overwhelm the piece and at times confuse the reader. Other than the minor grammar and spelling errors, the essay seem to flow well.

•  What aspects of Project III need the most work going forward?

I would have to work on the target argumentation style as well as keeping with the theme of the piece. I am trying to design an article style essay that gives the reader just enough information about the issue so that the author can propose or rebuke the context of the debate. I am trying to design a counter argument to the gene sequencing opposition's core beliefs, pinpoint inconsistencies, and remind the reader of the flaws within their argumentation styles.

• How are you feeling overall about the direction of your project after peer review and/or instructor conferences this week?

I feel more confident in the overall direction of my draft. I now know that I have to focus more on a rebuttal style essay rather than melding the argument style into a proposal, rebuttal, and position hybrid. I found that such a combination will overwhelm the reader, contribute to my essay being too lengthy- especially in regards to the design of the piece- and that the information I would use would frequently be repeated throughout. I am trying to approach this essay with a new form of argumentation and keep the overall piece brief.

Draft of Public Argument

Reneman. "Draft" 2013
Public Domain

Hello Everyone,

Below I have posted the link to my first draft of the Public Arguments document for Project III. I would like some constructive criticism regarding the format, the sentence structures, and the overall flow of the piece. My aim for this project was to have a TIME magazine style article that addresses the issue of Gene Sequencing. I have only included one picture since that is custom to TIME articles, a bold font text to give the reader a basic idea of the article's subject, and multiple brief paragraphs.

I have written the first two paragraphs in order to get a feel to the style, please comment.
Here is the Link. Enjoy!

Considering Visual Elements

\Seurat, Georges. "Gray Weather" 1888
Public Domain

Below, I discuss the importance of visual elements in a writing piece, as they pose as a means to draw in the reader and keep interests active. I will also be answering questions regarding the use of visual aids from the Writing Public Lives readings.

• How might I vary the fonts in my project for emphasis?

I will vary the fonts for headings and subheadings to indicate a change in ideas or to highlight a significant concept.

• How might I vary the fonts used in my project for emphasis, such as in the title and body of my project?

1. The fonts should not be too frequent and only used when emphasizing a crucial point in your article.
2. The title font should be larger than the normal text to indicate the overall issue address in the piece as well as grab the reader's attention.

• Is the feeling or tone that the image invokes appropriate to the visual-rhetorical tone of my argument?

1. The image I plan on using will be relevant to my issue. Most likely a snap shot of the gene sequencing process or a portrait of a prominent figure in the gene mapping industry. If I use this type of image, the tone will be more academic or civil; therefore, being similar to the tone I will use throughout the piece. 

• Is the image in close proximity to the argument that it is emphasizing or illustrating?

1. I will most likely use only one picture for my piece, since the magazine I am imitating in my work usually has one large image atop of the main body paragraphs.
2. The use for multiple pictures my take away the credibility of my work, since my main goal in this article is to give statistical data as well as a position argument supporting the Pro-sequencing stance on the debate.

• If your project contains large blocks of text, could they be broken up more efficiently using text boxes, lines, headings, or images?

1. I plan on keeping each paragraph brief and readable. So the use of multiple pictures will not really fit in this type of genre. The use of many headings and subheadings may confuse the reader or overwhelm the idea with many trivial points.

• If you are calling your audience to take action, are the consequences of not taking action and the benefits of taking action clearly expressed?

1. My genre isn't formatted to entice my audience into "taking action" on the issue, rather informing the audience of a specific issue in the medical field, discrediting the attacks made on the gene sequencing technology, giving the reader reasons why I support the use of gene mapping technologies in a hospital setting, and allude to the benefits of gene mapping in society in terms of job growth and personalized healthcare. 

Reflection: 

After reading the posts made by Morgan and Kelly, I now feel more confident writing in a format style that strictly keeps with the logistics and ethical argumentation of a issue. The idea of using multiple pictures or an frequent use of heading/subheadings seems excessive. My genre is purely an informative text that addresses an issue regarding the medical field of study, discredits the opposing argument by noting its ethical and statistical inconsistencies, and leaves enough article "room" to present my position on the issue. I want my article to be readable and and easy to comprehend to a large general audience, therefore the use of complex rhetoric or extensive research analysis would be ineffective.  

Project III Outline

In the post below, I will create an outline that will give a structured and organized system by which I will use for the creation of my Project III draft. I will also use the Writing Public Lives text to help me construct a better public argument. 

Klein. "East German School" 1951
Public Domain 

 Introducing Your Public Argument

Introduction:

• Connect the issue with a current event.

1. Refer to the Obamacare medical plan's influence in healthcare research.
2. Growing Industry of Gene Mapping
3. Existing confusion or ignorance towards the gene sciences.
4. Recognize the existing debate between Pro-Sequence groups and Anti-Sequencing groups.

• Include a visual aid above this introduction for "hook" purposes. Also the use of a bold text prior to any major thesis or formal introduction should be used. The bolded ext should give a definition or raise a question.

Body

• The Major Supporting Argument in Favor of Gene Sequencing.

1. Profits involved in gene sequencing. Job growth in major sciences.
2. Personalized healthcare system. Cost efficiency.
3. Possible means to expunge cancer genes from the DNA code.

• Claim I- Statistics & the Affects on Reasoning

1.  Multiple Sources supporting gene sequencing's findings. 
2. Note that Outdated Statistics seem to be the primary support for opposition arguments.
3. Refer to Harmon works, contributed to the weakening of her argument due to the origins and relevance of her data. The data may have a political lean or is outdated to today's standards.
4. Context of major anti-sequencing articles- (2008).

• Claim II- Recognizing the Divide

1. Accusations & Elitism- Debunk these theories with Scientific fact about gene sequencing's meaning.
2. Many feel compelled to accuse the upper class of marginalizing the medical process, turning it into a "luxury'. 
3. Little to no evidence of this "mass trend" among wealthy.
4. Believe that a possible genetic "elite" may form in these higher classes.
5. Present the audience with solid evidence supporting the concept that gene sequencing is merely a method by which one's DNA can be documented. 
6. Note that science has yet to create technology capable of altering one's DNA after birth. 

• Claim III- Benefits of Gene Sequencing in Hospitals/ Flaws of the Opposition.

1. The main differences between these two groups lies within the concepts of reliable data or conjecture. The Pro-sequencing groups believe that the data that currently exists is evidence enough for major steps towards integrating the technology into diagnostic medicine. In contrast, the Opposition believes that the evidence collected is inconclusive or flawed in some cases.
2. Present data that support the idea that gene mapping may become a multi million dollar industry.
3. The Pro-sequencing group's argument references the limitless diagnostic applications of gene maps. Also the perspective that this form of medical treatment will be the future of personalized modern medicine.
4. The ethical perspectives of the Opposition are in themselves unethical because the group may want to prevent genetic inequality or elitism in American society, but are inadvertently advocating for the deaths of many ailing from genetic illness. Such gene mapping tech. saves more lives rather than influencing the use of  abortions or causing malpractice deaths. 

Conclusion:

• Relevance of the statistical articles to the context of the debate.
• Reiterate the goal of the piece, and its points it used to create a claim.
• Restate thesis- shorter and more focused on the three points.
• Answer the goal of this project: How is an argument constructed in the discipline.
•  Profits involved in gene sequencing. Job growth in major sciences.
• Personalized healthcare system. Cost efficiency.
• Possible means to expunge cancer genes from the DNA code.

Final statement- Leaves the reader thinking more about your claim.

Analyzing My Genre

Since my topic involves scientific research, statistics, and medical journals I feel that the only way to cover such a heavily documented issue would be in the form of a magazine article; specifically, in the format and style of TIME magazine.

Unknown. "TIME Magazine Cover" 1933
Public Domain

Examples:

• Genetic Testing Company 23andMe Returns to the Market
• Genetic Test Impacts Chemo Choices In Surprising Ways
• What We Learn When We Sequence the Genes of An Entire Nation
• TIME Explains: Gene Sequencing
• Next Generation DNA Sequencing

Social Context

• Where is my genre typically set?

TIME magazine is an international current events periodical that covers abroad range of current issues, scientific discoveries, economic projections, and various industrial innovations. TIME also has an online web site and an app that can send anyone with a portable device monthly updates/ current events.

• What is the subject of the genre? 

The magazine covers a very broad range of issue, current events, and scientific inquiries. Their article are designed to give a decent amount of information to their audiences/readers. However, the magazine does refer to many statistics and logistical data to corroborate their article's data.

• Who uses the genre? 

The magazine is intended to target a broad range of readers, however given the content of its articles the primary audience would be the educate upper middle classes of Western society. The article is more or less intended for American middle class citizens with some form of college education.

• When and Why is the genre used? What purposes does the genre serve for the people who use it?

The magazine serves as median to relay useful and relevant information on current debatable issues. The magazine aims to inform the bulk of Western society, the middle class, of issues surrounding their daily lives and create a more "educated population."

Rhetorical Patterns of the Genre

• What type of content is usually included or excluded?

Factual and statistical data is often included in this genre, as well as numerous quotes from individuals relevant to the article's topic. The author guides the reader's attention to the statistical or research findings so that he/she can explain its relevance to the issue.

• What rhetorical appeals are used most often? 

The genre usually uses logos and ethos rhetorical strategies. In TIME magazine, the authors always find some way to include data or appeals to the reader's ethical standards in their articles, so that the reader feels more inclined to remember and share the information to a greater audience. "Shock Affect".

• How are the texts organized?

The text usually opens with a small blurb about the issue at hand as well as its relevance to the reader's daily life. The blurb is then followed by a statistic or quote from an individual relevant to the article's topic so that the author can explain the importance of the issue as a whole and possible solutions.

• Do sentences in the genre share a certain style? What type of word choice is used?

The sentences are usually simple or compound-complex sentences with a decent quantity of academic vocabulary. This is partially due to the target audience, where the reader is well educated but not as sophisticated enough for scientific terminology. The sentences and vocabulary have a decent flow to them, so that the reader can easily understand the information without having to reread or think about meanings.

Context of the Genre

• Who does this genre include and who does it exclude?

The genre usually includes prominent researchers, political figures, relevant people of social status, or individuals who have first hand accounts of the issue. The genre is typically designed to include a wide spectrum of people who have had some impact on the topic or any debate regarding the topic.

• What roles for writers and readers does the genre encourage?

The author take on a informative tone in order to present statistics, quotes, information relevant to the issue. However, if the topic regards a practice that is obviously morally or ethically unjust, the author will shift the tone to one of disparaging and argumentative in order to express concern.

• What values and beliefs are assumed about or encouraged from the users of the genre? 

It is assumed that the reader wants to be an inform individual on the issue without having to use the more politically charged medians to receive such information, or even have to do substantial research on the topic. The reader want to know the information in a easy and readable format.

• What content does the genre treat as most valuable? Least valuable? 

The genre usually treats the statistical data and research commentary from individuals prominent in the field of study as the most valuable content in their articles. The least valuable would be the social commentary from people who may have experienced the issue at hand but have not made any serious contributions to data (Personal Accounts). 

Reflection:

After reading the genre posts made by Jessica and Nick, I found that a writer's understanding of his primary audience is vital when making an effective article or video. Of course, the article, blog post, or video is designed to appeal to a specific audience; but, the writer should keep in mind that he/she is trying to keep the target audience interested and appeal to a greater audience with a "new perspective" argument on the issue.

Considering Types

Forest Wander. "Seneca Nature Trail" 2008
Public Domain

Position Argument

• This type of argument is most like the style I will use for my project. If I mention my side on the issue and counter the opposing side's position with data and reason, I will make this style more effective.
• If I merely state my position for no apparent reason, I may lose credibility as an author or the argument may seem brash, unsupported, or whimsical.

Casual Argument

• A casual argumentation style may no be appropriate for the topic of my project especially when the argument deals with healthcare and illness treatment. Also, the origins of this issue will be too difficult to determine, so the idea that the argument will be this steady ride between point would be ridiculous since I will need to call upon multiple sources from different areas and statements from different doctors. 

Evaluative Argument

• There exist plenty of solutions for this issue, but most involve a political agenda; therefore, the objectivity of the argument may be rather flawed. Also, the solutions that do exist are rather vague, so a evaluation of these solutions will be too broad to form an argument.

Proposal Argument 

• I do want to present a possible solution to the issue based on the position I take of the existing facts.I could draw upon the principles and ideas from both parties in order to create a cohesive proposal that can be agreed upon by both parties. However, the proposal created will most likely be more favorable towards the Pro-sequencing ideologies.

Refutation Argument

• I could directly address the Opposition's ideologies and arguments so that I can point out the loop holes in their theories/opinions in contrast to hard facts. I could directly refute the opposition entirely, then present my argument proving that the opposition is wrong on this issue, and then propose a solution in the form of a Pro-sequencing proposal. 

Reflection: 

After reading the posts made by Mehruba and Nick, I feel more confident in using the refutation argument style and the proposal style. This is due to the context of my debate, that being the fact that the issue revolves around a scientific dispute. In order to best discredit the opposition would be to point out the flaws in their position and then propose a better solution to the issue that is more favorable to the position I want to impose onto the reader. 

My Rhetorical Action Plan

This post deals with the plan of action for Project III and answers certain questions that can be found on pages 412-413 of the Writing Public Lives text.

Action France SAS. "Action"  2015
Public Domain

Audience

What does the audience know about the topic, text or idea? Where do they get their knowledge from? Do they have certain predispositions or opinions about the topic that you will need to address?

• Since this topic is rather complex and very scientific, a good potion of the piece will be dedicated to giving the audience a sufficient amount of background and context information. 
• Most people will have a basic understanding of DNA, genes, chromosomes, and the process to read DNA structures, however the debate itself revolves around a more specific issue regarding the "reading" of gene maps so I should explain what the science behind this issue states. 
• I don't believe that their is a large population of Americans who have this debate ready in their mind so that they can have a position if the issue is brought up, so I may be introducing the dispute to the reader. 

What do you know about the values, ideas, principles, or norms that members of the audience might hold?

• Patients want the best quality healthcare their doctors can provide; especially, if it means that they can return to being healthy in a timely, cost efficient manner. 
• What type of research or evidence do you think will be persuasive for your audience? How might you have to translate this research for them?
• Since this debate deals with a scientific issue, the need for statistical data and research findings is vital to support the argument I plan to make in the project, also a good portion of my audience will need logistical evidence to determine whether to support my claim. 

What visual images or elements might your audience respond to? Why?

• Since my topic deals with healthcare and research that usually involves animal experimentation, I find that using an image in this situation would bring about a less favorable reaction. I might however show pictures of x-ray slides, chromosome maps, or even the final product of the treatment... the gene sequencing map. 
• Why is your audience reading or listening to your argument? Are you trying to expand their understanding of an idea, encourage them to take action on an issue, challenge a long-held tradition or viewpoint? How likely is your argument to motivate your audience? 
• My intended audience would read my article if they happen to browse through a medical magazine, journal, or the healthcare portion of a news site. 
• I intend to motivate my audience to support programs that wish to research further into the applications of gene maps, groups that want to implement the gene mapping process into more hospital programs, and to press their governments into supporting financially further studies into the treatment process/application. 

Genre

Genre Idea I- Article, Blog Post, or QRG
Magazine Article: GEN Magazine (DNA Sequencing: Clinical Potential ); Circulation ( Gene Sequencing)
The Scientist: Genome Digest ; The Scientist (Animal Applications of Genome Digest)

Genre Idea: Personal Narrative
National Human Genome Research Initiative (An Overview of the HGP); GNN (Genome Sequencing).

What is the function of this genre? What is it designed to do to your readers? Why did you choose it?

• This style of writing is usually used to persuade an audience, but it does not need to be an emotionally based personal story. However the personal narrative gives accounts from the experts from the field or the author's account of the technology due to experience. Therefore the narrative may be more personal. 

What is the setting of your genre? Where could you see it being used?

• The article genre is a little more versatile because it can be read or published in a greater number of areas. An article or QRG can appear on many news source or magazine, and can be obtainable to a larger audience. Personal narrative can have the same qualities, but it is limited in terms of context. The genre may only be found in the social or recent news categories of a news source. 

How might you use the rhetorical appeals we have studied in this genre?

• Logical appeals will be best suited for the article style while emotional and ethical appeals would be more applicable to the personal narrative. 
• What type of visual elements, if any, will you use in this genre? 
• The use of visual aids in any of these genres will be most likely ineffective. maybe an introduction photo could grab the reader's attention but not persuade people as effectively as the argument. 

What type of style will you use in this genre?

• The article/QRG genre would be more formal, informative, and logic based because the presentation of hard facts drives the argument as a whole, and makes up for the normally absent emotional appeals. The narrative however is a story and therefore need emotion to draw in the audience and its support for your claim. 

Responses/Actions
Positive Reactions

• Someone completely agrees with my position, and advocates for more funding for the medical treatment's research. 
• The reader has such a strong response that they take it upon themselves to write to their local congressman, or government official to act upon the article's position. More people become aware of the technology's benefits. 
• The reader become curious and research further into the information/subject. Whatever they do after reading the article is entirely up to the reader, but my goal is to present an account of the debate, take a position, and argue for that position so that the reader eventually researches the topic and makes their own opinion based off what they have learned so far. 

Negative Reactions

• The reader has no feelings whatsoever towards the issue and eventually forgets the topic completely. They may also take the opposite of my position and tell others not to support gene sequencing. 
• People may have experience the process first hand and found it to be lacking, so they refuse to consider my opinion and stop reading. 
• The reader becomes bored and stops reading; therefore, the message is not as effective or long lasting as I hope it would be.

Reflection:

After reading the posts made by Alyssa and Isabel, I found that the most effective means to present my issue is in the genre of a QRG. This is partly due to the content of my debate. The constant use of statistics and research results may overwhelm my reader. So in order to breakup this massive portion of my project, I will format the project in a QRG style so that the points remain brief but the data readable enough to get the point across.

Analyzing Purpose

Brandon Lewis. "Coggle Brainstorm" 2015
Public Domain

Above I created a Coggle Flow Map using the prompts from Pg. 326 in the Writing Public Lives
readings.

Also here is a Link if you can't see so well.

Analyzing Context

Awa. "A Woman Thinking" 2007
Public Domain 

Below, I will provide concise but detailed answers to the listed questions from the "Reading in Context..." box in Writing Public Lives (Pg. 340). 

• What are the key perspectives or schools of thought on the debate that you are studying?

Currently there exists a number of positions on the gene sequencing issue. However, there are two major ideological groups in this debate: The Pro-Sequencing and Anti-Sequencing Healthcare parties. The Pro-Sequencing advocate for the increase in funding for gene sequencing science as well as a greater effort to implement the treatment technology into modern diagnostic healthcare. The Opposition, in contrast, finds the current existing research and data collected by gene sequencing programs are inadequate, or lack a definitive proof that the gene mapping healthcare treatment will aid in the diagnostic process.

• What are the major points of contention or major points of disagreement between these perspectives?  

The major source of the contention between these two perspectives is the science behind gene mapping and its using in diagnosing genetic illnesses. Some doctors and healthcare providers find that the technology could eventually be used as a convenient means to find mutations or errors in a patient's DNA or chromosome structures; which, would winnow down the number of possible genetic illnesses ailing the patient. However, the opposition to this science feel that the data is too inconclusive to be used in a healthcare setting, and far too expensive for the average patient to afford.

• What are some possible points of agreement, or the possible point of common ground between these perspectives?

 Both groups agree that the gene sequencing technology has some sort of impact in finding a possible gene error in a patient. However, it is the concepts of timing, cost, and quality of data collected that incite most of the argument in this debate. It is highly probable that if one of those issues is resolved the debate as a whole would cease to be, where more would unanimously agree with the Pro-sequence groups. 

• What are the ideological differences between the perspectives?  

The main differences between these two groups lies within the concepts of reliable data or conjecture. The Pro-sequencing groups believe that the data that currently exists is evidence enough for major steps towards integrating the technology into diagnostic medicine. In contrast, the Opposition believes that the evidence collected is inconclusive or flawed in some cases. Also, a potion of the Opposition is composed of anti-abortion factions, who find that certain aspects of the treatment can indirectly lead to the "engineering" of future children.

• What specific actions do their  perspectives or texts ask their audiences to take?  

The Pro-sequencing groups advocate for the integration of gene mapping technologies into hospitals, and subsequently into the diagnostic process. Therefore, the ask that their supporters press government and their doctors to use fund future research into this process. The Opposition however asks that their audience to also press their government to create regulations or cut spending funding gene sequencing technology research.

• What perspectives are useful in supporting your own arguments on this issue? Why did you choose these?

In order to support my argument, I will need to use the Pro-sequencing group's argument that references the limitless diagnostic applications of gene maps. Also the perspective that this form of medical treatment will be the future of personalized modern medicine. I chose these perspectives partly due to the amount of content and evidence to support these claims. The Opposition seems only to have opinionated and ethical based argumentation texts. 

• What perspectives do you think will be the greatest threat to your argument? Why so?

The greatest threat to my argument will be the ethical perspectives and its rhetorical appeals. The opposition tends to brand the Pro-sequencing group as unethical or morally corrupted, referencing the corporate aspect of the treatment process as well as the expense of the process as a whole.

Reflection:
After reading the posts made by Jayni and Nick  I found that their topics and plans for the argument revolve more around scientific data and ethical appeals. With this in mind, I should uses this strategy in my project because my topic is also a scientific essay and needs a lot of logical data and statistics tosupport the position. However, I still need to keep in mind that this project deals with controversies that have no conclusive evidence to draw upon an existing conclusion.
   

Project II Publication

Unknown: "Nixon Victory" 1970
Public Domain

Here is my Final Rhetorical Strategy Essay for Project II.

Enjoy... it was a lot of work and I am really mentally exhausted.

Audiences & Genre

Shankbone, David. "Theater Crowd" 2007
Public Domain

It is very important for a writer to understand his or her audience and the genre of the piece. Below, I have analyzed and evaluated what my audience will be in regards to my Project III topic.

Audience I:

Target I: Medical Professionals/ Healthcare Providers

Since my topic relates to gene sequencing and its affects on modern health care, I believe that my primary audience will be individuals who have a basic understanding of genomes and the DNA code. But since I will be talking about the technology's influence in diagnostic treatment, I believe that a greater portion of my audience will medical professional or those who have a substantial knowledge of hospital treatment and health care administration.

Publication Locations: Audience I

1. YouTube or Online Interview where I find experts in the field of genetics and gene mapping. This can be done at the University of Arizona as there is a significant science community involving DNA and genetic research. 

• Example I: I could do a teaching based video where I describe the gene sequencing process and the data behind the science like this You Tube video.  
• Example II: I could simply do an interview of professionals of the field, and ask about their beliefs of the future of the technology and treatment or a TED talk explanation of the process, like this video.  

2. Personal Narrative of the Treatment

• Example I: I could do a more serious essay of the treatment, using a more article or blog post style to express my opinions on the influence of gene mapping on diagnostic treatment. Like this descriptive information piece. 
• Example II: I could also do a more casual video of my opinions on the issue, noting the benefits of whole-genome sequencing and the future of the treatment. Instead of having it as an informative piece, I will try to influence my audience to support the treatment like this video.

Audience II: Student Learners

Target II: Medical Students/ College Learners
Since my topic relates to gene sequencing and its affects on modern health care, I believe that my primary audience will be individuals who have a basic understanding of genomes and the DNA code. But for this audience I want to target individuals who want to have a basic knowledge of the treatment process for personal reasons or just for the sake of learning.

 Publication Locations; Audience II

1. QRG or Small Essay

• Example I: I could redo the Project I QRG to apply to a broader audience, so that the information is more accessible and easier to read like this QRG. 
• Example II: I could also do a Power point style or Wikipedia formatted research report that give the general idea of the topic and provides numerous links for further investigation, like this example.

2.  Personal Narrative of the Treatment

• Example I: Example I: I could do a more serious essay of the treatment, using a more article or blog post style to express my opinions on the influence of gene mapping on diagnostic treatment, but also keep the information understandable and easy to follow. Like this descriptive information video. 
• Example II: I could simply do an interview of professionals of the field, and ask about their beliefs of the future of the technology and treatment or a TED talk explanation of the process. I could also use an article style format as a means to express these opinions, like this article. 

Extended Annotated Bibliography

Dr. Marcus Gossler. "Library Shelves" 2003
Public Domain  

Since I am doing Project III on Project I subject, I was able to use a few older sources as the ground work for my new sources.

Here is the Link to my Annotated Bibliography.

Narrowing My Focus

Moerman, Daniil. "Zoom Effect" 2007
Public Domain

Who supports the implementation of the technology into diagnostic healthcare? 

Many of my previous article from Project I gave me sufficient references to individuals who opposed gene mapping in a hospital setting. If I did have a pro-mapping proponent, the individual was either dead or lacked credibility in a medical atmosphere. If I did find an individual who had more recent experience with the filed and had experience with the process in a medical atmosphere, my argument on the debate could be better supported.  

What are the positive affects of gene mapping in diagnostic medicine. 

I thought this would be the most interesting concept to research, especially since I have been researching the debate in theory. I have been most discussing the issue as it pertains to the United States, and most medical institutions in the country have yet to implement such mapping tech into diagnostics. So I would like to see on a global scale if there have been finding that support the implentation of the treatment have been effective in treatment. 

Questions About Controversy

Jon-Co. "Fibrodysplasia" 2013
Public Domain

In Project III, I plan on continuing with the gene sequencing debate on whether it is beneficial to modern health care practice and its possible influence on gene mutation research.

Who

1. Who researches with the gene mapping technology?
2. Who are the leading researchers in the field?
3. Who supports the implementation of the technology into diagnostic healthcare? 

What

1. What are the positive affects of gene mapping in diagnostic medicine. 
2. What are some factors that prevent the technology from being an accepted treatment?
3. What studies have been done to verify the gene map's credibility/reliability in health care?

When 

1. When did gene sequencing become a common research subject in medicine?
2. When did the debate on gene mapping's implementation in hospitals become an issue?
3. When have there been any breakthroughs in the research?

Where

1. Where has gene mapping become a common treatment practice?
2. What countries have fully accepted gene sequencing as a medical diagnostic tool?
3. Where has the most research been performed on the gene map's affect on effective healthcare.

How

1. How did the debate become a nation wide issue? 
2. How does gene mapping help doctors diagnose genetic illnesses?
3. How can this issue be resolved? 

Reflection of Project II

Inaglory, Brocken. "Tenaya Lake Reflection" 2007
Public Domain

1. What was specifically revised from one draft to another?

What I really focused on was the conclusion and quotations within my body paragraphs. I also worked on adding more academic vocabulary within the piece so that the over tone of the essay was more formal and educated.

2. Point to global changes: how did you reconsider your thesis or organization?

I constructed my thesis so that the points I wanted to make were clear and arguable. Therefore, my thesis was very specific, only pointing out the three major strategies used in the article that were a form of rhetorical device. 

3. What led you to these changes? A reconsideration of audience? A shift in purpose? 

Based on the rubric given at the beginning of this project, I had to consider an audience that was relevant to my field. I also had to keep in mind that I was not to analyze the article specifically, but instead use it as a means to explain the rhetorical strategies used in my field. 

4. How do these changes affect your credibility as an author? 

By keeping with the subject of the essay and by constantly addressing the audience, I was able to construct an essay that fulfilled my purpose while also bringing my audience up to date on the filed's use of rhetoric. This make me more credible because I connected to my audience and tailor my essay specifically for them. 

5. How will these changes better address the audience or venue?  

Since my essay is more targeted to specific audience, my paper will be more tailored to that group. This allows me to address the audience in regards to their field and give the proper amount of context to the issue without isolating/confusing the audience as a whole.

6. Point to local changes: How did you reconsider sentence structure and style?

I added to certain sentences and included more quotes so that the paper flowed easily. I also focused more on my introduction and its thesis so that the audience had a basic understanding of the overall issue addressed and the rhetoric employed in the article.

7. How did these changes assist your audience in understanding your purpose? 

I made the introduction entertaining, easy to read, and with an opening sentence that grabbed to audience's attention. I also provided enough background information on the issue so that the audience could recall their own preconceptions and learn/adjust from the information given.

8. Did you have to reconsider the conventions of the particular genre in which you where writing?  

I understood from the beginning of this project the conventions, strategies, and tools needed for this project. However, there where points where transitions in the overall goal of the piece were necessary for a quality essay. I had to constantly remind myself of the properties of the genre and the format needed to adhere to the project guidelines. 

9. How does the process of reflection help you reconsider your identity as a writer? 

Well I never truly knew my identity as a writer before this project, I can't say with confidence that I know now, but I believe I have learned from this experience that project guidelines are incredibly important for the writing process. I now have a clear writing style thanks to this project.

Reflection:
 I read Nick's and Savannah's reflections. We all seemed to have had trouble when it came to revising the body paragraph, and adhering to the overall purpose of the project. The fact that we had to focus more on the analysis of the rhetorical strategies seemed to throw off a lot of our writing style. It seems that we are more used to analyzing the author's point and writing style rather than the rhetoric employed.        

Punctuation Part II

Anybody. "Defer" March 2007
Public Domain

Below, I present two examples of "punctuation" found in my draft essay in comparison to the Rules for Writers readings.

The Comma/End Punctuation 

I have a pretty decent knowledge of the restrictive and nonrestrictive properties of a sentence when it come to the use of commas. But the readings showed me specific names for these elements as well as scenarios. Direct questions obviously end with a question mark, however polite requests end with a period. 

Ex. 
By inferring that her opponents are sociopaths, Machiavellian, or even favor far right political values Harmon undermines her credibility among more educated audiences.

Quotation Marks

I have a general understanding of the use of quotations in essays. One should use enclosed direct quotations when referring to a specific portion of an article relevant to your point in a paragraph.When using dialogue, a new paragraph must be started when there is a change in speaker. Quotation marks are not needed for paraphrasing, however. In terms of use of quotes within quotes, the use of a single quotation mark. Periods and commas remain inside quotation marks. 

The Apostrophe

Apostrophes are needed when a noun is possessive, or an indication of ownership is present. The addition of apostrophe "s" for such ownership. If the noun is already plural and ends with an "s" then add a singular apostrophe at the end. When there is no joint possession, use the apostrophe on only the last noun, and to show individual possession , make all nouns possessive.

Ex. 
Harmon’s understanding of her reader’s financial disposition  contributes greatly to the style of her writing, as she convinces her audience that the research is necessary for their future health and within their price range. Even if such an argument is rather ridiculous considering today’s healthcare quality.