Chapter 20, Additional Case 1: Modifying a Definition for a New Audience

Chapter 20, Additional Case 1: Modifying a Definition for a New Audience

This case is best for groups.

Background

As Chapter 5 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 case, perform the following tasks:

  1. Study Chapter 5 on audience and Chapter 20 on definitions, descriptions, and instructions.
  2. Along with the other members of your group, study the online publication Intranet Journal for information on one of the following three topics:
    • groupware
    • intranet
    • 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 journal 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 Intranet Journal 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 20.