Assignment part I:
Q1. Define communication. When is it successful?
Q2. Describe the five steps in the process of communication. What can disrupt this process?
Q3. In what ways is business writing different from school essays and private messages?
Q4. Describe the components in each stage of the 3-x-3 writing process. Approximately how much time is spent on each stage?
Q5. What eight factors should writers consider in selecting an appropriate channel to deliver a message? What is the difference between a rich and a lean channel?
Q6. How does anticipating and identifying the audience help a business communicator prepare a message?
Q7. What is the "you" view? When can the use of you backfire?
Q8. What three techniques for developing a warm, friendly, and conversational tone can communicators use in business messages?
Q9. What are three ways to avoid biased language? Give an original example of each.
Q10. Name five gender-biased words and their improved versions.
Assignment part II: Critical Thinking
1. Have you ever read something complex and blamed yourself for not understanding it? Fergal McGovern, CEO of VisibleThread, argues that it's not your fault, particularly if the subject is investing. He blames "turgid" and "dense" writing. He thinks that even complex ideas can be expressed in natural, plain language.[i] Do you agree? If so, how can writers do this?
2. Digital communication channels have overtaken face-to-face and voice-to-voice communication in the workplace. How has this shift changed the fundamental process of communication?
3. Do short messages also require that communicators follow a writing process? Why or why not?
4. Writers sometimes use abbreviations such as FYI (for your information) and ASAP (as soon as possible). Others sometimes use LOL (laughing out loud), 4 u (for you), and gr8 (great). Where would these abbreviations most likely be found, and how do they contribute to one's professional image?
5. How would knowing that your manager might forward your e-mail to higher-ups affect how you write your e-mail message? Which characteristics of your e-mail might change?