MM1 Introduction

MM1-g What this text offers

MM1-gWhat this text offers

This text is anchored by the concepts discussed in the previous sections: that is, how composing has and hasn’t changed, an expanded notion of what composing is, and the importance of composing in and outside of the classroom.

The sections ahead offer the following:

a process for analyzing multimodal texts
a vocabulary for analyzing multimodal texts
a process for producing multimodal texts
a close look at two students’ multimodal composing processes
a way of thinking about the relation between analyzing and producing multimodal texts

Sections MM1 through MM6 will help you hone your skills of analysis as you explore different types of modes and texts. Sections MM7 through MM15 will help you think about the best processes, practices, and tools for conveying your own ideas in a multimodal composition.

Keep in mind that effective compositions transcend specific software programs and digital spaces. If you can adopt the habits of carefully analyzing and crafting different types of texts, you will become a flexible, smart communicator who knows how to select the best tool for the job and the best techniques for the composing task at hand.

note: Two students' projects are featured in sections MM7 through MM15. Alyson D'Amato's informative Web site, "Loose Leaf Teas," and Marisa Williamson's video essay, "To the Children of America," illustrate the advice given in those sections.