Ch. 14: Additional Case 1

Modifying a Definition for a New Audience

This case is best for groups.

Background

As Chapter 4 of the textbook explains, when you plan any kind of document, you start by analyzing your audience. You need to understand who your readers are and how they will be using your document before you can decide what to say and how to say it. This basic point applies to the writing of extended definitions. In this case, you will research a topic and then write an extended definition of it for a general audience.

Your Assignment

To complete this assignment, perform the following tasks:

  1. Study Chapter 4 on audience and Chapter 14 on definitions, descriptions, and instructions.

  2. Along with the other members of your group, study the online resource Datamation on one of the following three topics:

    1. groupware

    2. intranet

    3. knowledge management

    Look for FAQ sections and tutorials to gather information on your topic. As you read about your topic, you will notice that the audience of this online magazine has considerable expertise in information technology. However, you will be writing an extended definition addressed to a general reader—that is, a reader who has a basic understanding of the Internet and the World Wide Web but has not heard of the concept you are defining. Identify elements of the information presented in the Datamation site that you think a general reader will have trouble understanding, and think of ways to explain those concepts.

  3. Write an extended definition of 1,000 words, using the techniques explained in Chapter 14.