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Senior High School

Reading and Writing Skills


Quarter 4 - Module 3
Purposeful Writing in the Disciplines
and for Professions

Department of Education • Republic of the Philippines


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Reading and Writing - Senior High School
Alternative Delivery Mode 2020
Quarter 4- Module 3: Purposeful Writing in the Disciplines and for Professions
First Edition, 2020

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Published by the Department of Education


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Development Team of the Module


Author’s Name: ANADESI L. BUHISAN

Reviewers: JOSEPHINE D. LADERES & SHEILLA B. DIANGO

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Senior High School


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Senior High School

Reading and Writing Skills


Quarter 4 - Module 3
Purposeful Writing in the
Disciplines

Learning Competency 8: Identify the unique features and


requirements in composing texts that are useful across disciplines
EN11/12RWS-IVdg-12

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a) Book Review or Article Critique EN11/12RWS-IVdg-12.1
b) Literature Review EN11/12RWS-IVdg-12.2
c) Research Report EN11/12RWS-IVdg-12.3
d) Project Proposal EN11/12RWS-IVdg-12.4
e) Position Paper EN11/12RWS-IVdg-12.5
Semester: 2nd Semester
Quarter: 4th Quarter
Number of Hours: 12 H ours

Lesson Purposeful Writing in the


Disciplines
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What’s New

This part of the module discusses about the unique features of


composing academic writing. It helps you to learn the foundational concepts
and to gain familiarity with the different writing disciplines. Each writing
discipline is followed by writing activities to practice and engage your critical
thinking, reading and writing.

What I Need to Know

By the end of this lesson, you are expected to:


1. identify the unique features of and requirements in composing texts
that are useful across disciplines
a) Book Review or Article Critique
b) Literature Review
c) Research Report
d) Project Proposal

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e) Position Paper

To achieve the objectives of this module, do the following:


✓ Take your time reading the lessons carefully.
✓ Follow the directions and/or instructions in the activities and exercises
diligently.
✓ Answer all the given tests and exercises.

Lesson Purposeful Writing in the


Disciplines: Writing a Book Review
8.1 or Article Critique

What’s New

What is a Book Review or Article Critique?


A book review or article critique is a
specialized form of academic writing in which
a reviewer evaluates the contribution to
knowledge of scholarly works such as
academic books and journal article. A book
review or article critique, which is usually
ranges from 250 to 750 words, is not simply a
summary. It is a critical assessment, analysis,
or evaluation of a work. However, take care
https://www.freepik.com/search?dates=any&format=search&page
=2&query=book+review&sort=popular
not to equate the word “critique” to cynicism
and pessimism. As an advance form of
writing, it involves your skills in critical thinking and recognizing arguments. A book
review or article critique is different in movie review that you see in a newspaper.
Although movie review involves the analysis of one’s work, they are written for a
general audience and primarily aim to offer a persuasive opinion. An academic book
review or article critique, on the other hand, addresses a more specific audience and
usually offers a critical response to a published scholarly work. Moreover, book review

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must not be mistaken for book reports. Book reports focus on describing the plot,
characters, or idea of a certain work.
Book and article reviewers do not just share mere opinion; rather, they use both
proofs and logical reasoning to substantiate their opinions. They process ideas and
theories, revisit and extend ideas in a specific field of study, and present analytical
responses.
Structure of a Book Review or Article Critique
Introduction (around 5% of the paper)
• Title of the book/article
• Writer’s name
• Writer’s thesis statement
Summary (around 10% of the paper)
• Writer’s objective or purpose
• Methods used (if applicable)
• Major findings or claims

Review/Critique (in no particular order) (Around 75% of the paper)


• Appropriateness of methodology to support the arguments
• Theoretical soundness
• Soundness of explanation in relation to other available information and experts
• Sufficiency of explanation
• Other perspectives in explaining the concepts and ideas
• Coherence of ideas

Conclusion (around 10% of the paper)


• Overall impression of the work
• Scholarly value of the reviewed article/book
• Benefits to the intended audience
• Suggestion for future directions

When writing a book review or article critique,


make sure to ask the following:
1. What is the topic of the book or article?
2. What is its purpose?
3. Who are its intended readers?
4. Does the writer explicitly state his/her thesis
statement?
5. What theoretical assumptions (i.e., a
https://www.freepik.com/search?dates=any&for scientific/logical explanation without evidence)
mat=search&query=book%20review%20writing&
selection=1&sort=popular&type=vector%2Cpsd% are mentioned in the book or article? Are they
2Cicon
explicitly discussed?

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6. What are the contributions of the book or article to the field (e.g., language,
psychology) it is situated in?
7. What problems and issues are discussed in the book or article?
8. What kind of information (e.g., observation, survey, statistics, and historical
accounts) are presented in the book or article? How they are used to support the
arguments or thesis?
9. Are there other ways of supporting the arguments or thesis aside from the
information used in the book or article? Is the author silent about these alternative
ways of explanation?
10. What is your overall reaction to the work?
Guidelines in Writing a Book Review or Article Critique

1. Read the article or book to be reviewed carefully to get its main concept.
2. Reread it to get the arguments being presented.
3. Relate the content of the article or book to what you already know about the
topic. This will make you more engaged with the article or book.
4. Focus on discussing how the book treats the topic and not a topic itself. Start
your sentences with phrases such as “this book presents…’ and “The author
argues…”
5. Situate your review. This means that your analysis should be anchored on the
theories presented by the book or article writer.
6. Examine whether the findings are adequately supported or not.
7. Analyze the type of analysis the writer use (e.g., quantitative, qualitative, case
study) and how it supports the arguments and claims.
8. Suggest some ways on how the writer can improve his/her reasoning or
explanation.
9. Discuss how the same topic is explained from other perspective. Compare the
writer’s explanation of the topic to another expert from the same field of study.
10. Point out other conclusion or interpretations that the writer missed out. Present
other ideas that need to be examined.
11. Examine the connections between ideas and how they affect the conclusions
and findings.
12. Show your reactions to the writer’s idea and present an explanation. You can
either agree or disagree with the ideas, as long as you can sufficiently support
your stand.
13. Suggest some alternative methods and processes of reasoning that would
result in a more conclusive interpretation.
Completing a book review or article critique means that you can pinpoint the
strengths and weaknesses of an article or book and that you can identify different
perspectives. This task also equips you with more skills to engage in discussions
with an expert and makes you a part of a community of scholars

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What is it?

Activity 2: Analyze the following text very carefully. Then, complete the
table that follows.

This paper purports to assess the linguistic complexity of students’ narratives


and reading texts. However, the authors never stated the purpose behind the study.
The authors provide no motivations and goals for the study, no research questions, no
strong methodological practices, and very few findings that can be easily interpreted.
While reading the study, every new sentence is a surprise. There are no details and
the entire paper is completely under referenced.
Below I will discuss some of the major problems with the paper. First, the
authors never provide a rationale for their study. They never give a reason as to why
they are studying reading and writing together and they fail to link the two skills. The
authors assume that the reader knows the narrative and made no attempt to assist
them in developing the narrative of the paper. Another major problem with the paper
is the naiveté that is apparent in the literature review, the methods, and the analysis.
The literature review is perhaps two pages long and boost up on their knowledge of
L2 writing and reading theory before they submit a paper to a professional journal.
It is interesting that the language background of the participants is never made
explicit (participants are at the mid beginners to high beginners level in using English
as a second language). The extent to which any results found in the study would be
widely generalizable to what is typically conceived as an EFL/ESL learner is not clear.
Moreover, the authors continually draw on literature meant for an L1 acquisition
audience and therefore of dubious extension to L2 contexts.
The methods section contains no details at all. Ten participants per grade level,
in a stratified random sample, hardly seemed enough to get much stable data. Since,
there are only ten participants per grade level on both accredited and non-accredited
schools due to logistical constraints; the paper is more on exploratory study. In other
words, it seems a stretch to ask most journal readers to generalize from such a limited
sample from such a specific population. The authors state that “pupils were not given
limits as to time and number of words, for them to be relaxed in their narrative
production” (p.5). However, later the authors explain that those written data also form
the basis of the corpus used for analysis. How does this differential production affect
the results of the analysis? Surely, a participant who produces 1,000 words will have
different results from one who produce 500. It is not clear how the authors can assert
any sort of pattern from linguistic ‘snapshot’ from just 10 students per school,
producing such heterogeneous data samples. Again, from such a modest sample size.

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In general, the paper is hard to read. This likely goes back to the lack of
research problems. There are few transitions and, organizationally, the paper does not
set up any expectations for the reader. The first paragraph is a great example because
it contains a single sentence and at least five different clauses. The final paragraph in
the introduction (right before the methods sections) is another example. I have read
that paragraph four times and am not sure how to process it.
There are major problems with this paper, but I do not have a time or the energy
to discuss them all. The authors really need to rethink the purpose of the collected
data and educate themselves in the field of L2 reading and writing. I would highly
suggest that the authors reread issues of the journal of Second Language Writing and
Reading in a Foreign Language.
Source:http://www.uwlux.edu/uploadedFiles/Academics/Deparments/Political_Science_and_Public_Admin/journa
l_article_critique_example.pdf

Type of Document

Purpose of the
Review

Writer’s Persona

Intended Reader

Strengths

Weaknesses

What is it?
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Activity 3: Write a book review by following the writing process outlined below.
You may assume the persona of a university professor writing a review for a
particular book or article in your chosen field.

A. Read the book or article to be reviewed. Complete the following details.


Article/ Book Title:
___________________________________________________________________
Article/Book Author:
___________________________________________________________________
Topic:
___________________________________________________________________

B. Complete the given information to come up with a writing situation for your
book review or article critique.

General purpose:
___________________________________________________________________
Specific Purpose:
___________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________
Target Output:
___________________________________________________________________
Audience:
___________________________________________________________________
Writer’s Persona:
___________________________________________________________________
Tone/Formality:
___________________________________________________________________

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What I Have Learned

In writing a review/critique you must:

1. Provide a summary of the contents of the piece of writing under review;


2. Provide a general evaluation of the text;
3. Discuss each point you want to make about the text; and
4. Conclude by telling the readers if the text is worth reading or not. In addition
you must polish your writing by considering the properties of a well written
text.

Great job!
You are done with Lesson 1, have a break! You deserve one.
Then let’s take off to Lesson 2!
So, read on!

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Lesson Purposeful Writing in the
Disciplines: Writing a Literature
8.2 Review

What’s New

What is Literature Review?


A literature review is a type of academic writing that provides an overview of
a specific topic. It surveys scholarly work such as academic books (but not textbooks),
computerize databases, conference proceedings, dissertation’s/theses, empirical
studies government reports, historical records, journal article, monographs, and
statistical handbooks.
As an advance form of academic writing, a literature review critically analyzes
the relationship among the scholarly works and the current work. It can be written as
a stand-alone paper or as part of a research paper explaining a theoretical framework
and related studies. Unlike an annotated bibliography which presents a summary and
synthesis (i.e., linking different sources).
Below are the differences among the sources.

Annotated Book Review Literature Review


Bibliography
Summarizes the Evaluates a book Review Reviews a significant
references and explain number of scholarly work in
how important they are in order to identify what is
addressing the research known and not known
questions about a topic

Doing a literature review will test your ability to seek literature efficiently and
identify useful scholarly work. It will also test your ability to evaluate studies for their
validity and reliability. Hence, writing a literature review involves research, critical
appraisal, and writing. Everything else included, a student may take 40 hours to finish
a well- written literature review.

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Functions of a Literature Review
This type of a review has the following roles.

• Justifies a research questions, method or theoretical and conceptual framework


• Establishes the relevant of the topic
• Provides necessary information to better understand a specific topic or study
• Shows reviewers familiarity and mastery of the topic
• Establishes a niche of the study
• Resolves conflict among contradictory studies
Structure of a Literature Review
Introduction

• Purpose for writing literature review and the importance of the topic being
reviewed
• Scope of the review
• Criteria used for selecting the literature
• Organizational pattern of the review
Body

• Historical background
• Relevant theories
• Relationship between and among the studies, and how each study advanced a
theory
• Strengths and weaknesses of each paper
• Various viewpoints on the topic
Conclusion

• Restatement of the main argument or thesis


• Main agreements and disagreements in the literature
• If stand-alone paper: conclusions; implications; and direction for future studies
• If part of a thesis or research paper: linking of the literature review to the
research questions
• Overall perspective on the topic.

Guidelines in Writing a Literature Review


Writing a literature review is composed of three distinct parts ---literature
search, evaluation and analysis of articles and writing the literature review –all of which
are discussed below.

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Literature Search
1. Review the documentation style (e.g., APA, MLA, Chicago) that you will adopt
and be familiar with its format in relation to writing a literature review.
2. Choose and focus on a topic that you will explain.
3. Determine the kind and number of sources you will be using. Will your literature
review be exclusive to articles or will it include other documents? Will you focus
on experimental studies or will you also include theoretical papers that explain
a theory?
4. Survey the available online databases relevant to your topic. These include
Proquest, Science Direct, JSTOR, or Google Scholar. As much as possible,
include only the references published by top journals and publishers.
5. Use relevant keywords when searching for scholarly documents or article. For
example, if you topic is about the impact of Facebook-based e-portfolios on the
writing skills of ESL learners, your possible keywords are Facebook, ESL
writing, e-portfolio, portfolio assessment, Facebook-based e-portfolio, and
social networking site.
6. Always include landmark studies or papers (i.e., studies which had remarkably
changed the field) related to your topic.
7. Always evaluate the sources for coverage and currency. Include only those
article directly related to your topic.
Evaluation and Analysis of Articles
Once you have identified and obtained the articles for your review, analyze
them before writing the actual literature review. To do this, you may apply the following
steps.
1. Skim the articles and read their abstracts.
2. Group the articles and other documents according to their categories.
3. Take down notes. Focus on the research questions, methodology used, major
findings and their explanation, and conclusion.
4. Summarize the details using a concept map. In this way, you will see the
relationship, similarities and differences among the articles.
5. Write a synthesis of the references you have read before writing the actual
literature review.
6. Create an outline. You may look for other literature reviews to serve as models
for writing the outline.

Writing the Literature Review


Once all the materials are ready and you have clear outline of the ideas you
want to express, you may now start the actual writing process.
1. State clearly your thesis or main argument and be guided by it accordingly.

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2. Below is an example of a thesis statement for a literature review.

Because of Facebook’s popularity, many educators have explored its


educational use in the tertiary level.

3. If you say that no studies have been conducted on one aspect of your topic,
justify it.
4. Direct the readers to other related literature reviews that cover items which you
do not intend to cover. You may use the citation format “(see Author, year)” or
follow the format prescribed by your chosen documentation style.
5. Never treat a literature review as a series of annotated bibliography.
6. Use headings and subheadings to classify the parts of your topic. For each
topic heading, analyze the differences among studies and look for gaps.
7. Note that each paragraph should focus on one aspect of the topic.
8. Use effective transitions to make your review easier to read and understand.
9. The body of the literature review can be organized thematically,
methodologically or chronologically.
10. Use direct quotations sparingly.
11. Classify important definitions

What is it?

Activity 5: Read and analyze the following literature review very carefully.
Then, complete the table that follows.

Kram (1985) has proposed that mentoring relationships develop and mature
over time, providing different levels of mentoring functions as they progress through a
sequence of four distinct phases: initiation, cultivation, separation, and redefinition.
During the initiation phase, the mentor and the protégé begin initial interactions that
involve learning the other’s personal style and work habits. He described the first six
to 12 months of a relationship as characterized by musings that protégés and mentors
providing coaching, challenging work and visibility, the mentor embodies as fantasized
role model with whom the protégé begins to identify and develops positive
expectations about career development. If the relationship matures past the initiation
phase, it then progresses to the cultivation phase, in which career development, role
modeling and psychosocial mentoring functions are proposed to be at their highest.

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Kram (1985) further proposed that the emotional bond between the mentor and
protégé deepens and intimacy increases during this phase. This phase may last from
two to five years as the protégé learns from the mentor and the mentor promotes and
protects the protégé. Protégés gain knowledge from the mentor, and the mentor gains
loyalty and support of the protégé and feelings that his or her values, ideas and work
habits may be passed on to the protégé during the cultivation phase. The third phase,
separation, involves a structural and psychological disconnection between the mentor
and the protégé when functions provided by the mentor decrease, and the protégé
becomes independent. In the redefinition phase, the mentor and protégé frequently
develop a relationship that is more peer-like, characterized by mutual support and
informal contact. While career and psychosocial functions are less evident,
sponsorship from a distance, occasional counseling and coaching and ongoing
friendship continue. Hay (1995) believes that mentoring process is underpinned by the
following principles: recognizing that people are okay, realizing that people can change
and want to grow, understanding how people learn, recognizing individual differences,
empowering through personal and professional development, developing
competence, encouraging collaboration not competition, encouraging scholarship and
a sense of inquiry, searching for new ideas, theories and knowledge and reflecting on
past experiences as key to understanding.
According to Mackimm, et al (2003) mentoring relationship is a special
relationship where two people make real connection. It is a protected relationship in
which learning and experimentation occur through analysis, examination,
reexamination and reflection on practice, situations, problems, mistakes and
successes (of both the mentors and the mentees) to identify learning opportunities
and gaps. According to Yang (2006), mentoring relationships range from loosely
defined, informal collegial associations in which a mentee learns by observation and
example to structured formal agreements between expert and novice co-mentors
where each develops professionally through the two-way transfer of experience and
perspective. Whether the relationship is formal or informal, the goal of mentoring is to
provide career advice as well as both professional and personal enrichment. It is
important that the mentor and the mentee have a clear grasp of the mentoring process
for maximum benefits of this special relationship. For mentoring to be effective, the
mentee together with the mentor needs to reflect on the experiences in school and
attempts to understand the experience through analysis and conceptualization. The
individual makes choices based on analyzing the implications. She/he identifies
options, decides on what to do next and undergoes another experience.

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Mentoring relationship is classified as formal or informal, and short term or long
term (Goodyear, 2006). Formal mentoring is usually mandatory and institutionalized
by the school or agency. The meetings are determined, monitored and evaluated
based on clearly articulated goals and milestones. Informal mentoring relationship is
more spontaneous and springs from the mentee’s intrinsic desire to become better.
The choice of the mentor is based on trust and confidence. Another type of mentoring
is the duration of the relationship which can be short term and long term. A short term
mentoring usually addresses a set of specific needs. Long term mentoring is based on
the broad based goals incorporated in the professional development career of the
institution or agency. Whether the mentoring relationship is formal or informal, short
term or long term, literature proves that mentoring has improved the teacher’s personal
artistry and professional skill in the workplace.
Source: (taken from the research article of Dayagbil, et al.)

Research Topic:

List down the


authorities cited in
What is the idea implied?
the literature review

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Source: Critical Reading and Writing, Dayagbil, 2016 pp. 137-139

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What is it?

Activity 6: Read and summarize five journal articles about the topic below. Don’t forget
to indicate your sources.

Research Topic: Facebook Engagement of Students

Journal Article # 1
____________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________

Journal Article # 2
___________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________

Journal Article # 3
___________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________

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Journal Article # 4
___________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________

Journal Article # 5
___________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________
_
________________________________________________________________
_
________________________________________________________________
_
________________________________________________________________
_

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Rubric in Summarizing Journal
3 points 2 points 1 point
Good Fair Poor

The article is clearly The article is The article


but succinctly clearly summary is
summarized - only summarized, but unclear or overly
the key points of some sub points detailed, so long
Summary the article are are addressed as to appear more
touched upon. The along with main like a short,
article summary points. The unclear article
takes up no more summary is not than a summary.
than one third of succinct, is too
the total long and
assignment. cumbersome
Good Fair Poor

Article selected is Article selected Article is barely


current (<5 years), may be current related to task or
topic is specific to (<5 years) or is grossly out
Article task. Article somewhat older, dated (> 10
Choice published in peer- topic is related to years). Article not
reviewed scholarly task, but less from acceptable
journal. specific. Article source.
published in peer-
reviewed scholarly
journal.
Good Fair Poor

Summary is well Paper is organized, Paper is not well


organized, and has an intro, body organized, has an
clearly stated. The and conclusion. unclear or non-
points of the article The purpose of the existent intro,
are clear from the paper becomes body and
Organization
very beginning and clear within the conclusion. The
the name and paper and the purpose of the
author of the article name and author of paper is unclear
is made clear early the article is and the name and
in the paper. mentioned within author of the
the paper. article is not stated
or stated late.
Good Fair Poor

APA and page APA and page APA and page


length (1) length (1) length (2-3 pages)
Mechanics
requirements are requirements are requirements are
Requirements
met and there are met and there are not met. There are
no grammatical 1-4 grammatical 5+ grammatical
errors or typos. errors or typos. errors or typos.

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Source: https://www.rcampus.com/rubricshowc.cfm?code=E9896B&sp=yes&

What I Have Learned

A literature review is a synthesis of whatever professionals or researchers in


the field are saying about a particular topic in the area. It can be written separately
from a research paper. It must be updated, and it must supply new interpretations of
the issue or subject matter based on the information presented.

Great job!
You are done with Lesson 2, have a break! You deserve one.
Then let’s take off to Lesson 3!
So, read on!

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Lesson Purposeful Writing in the
Disciplines: Writing a Research
8.3 Report

What’s New

What is a Research Report?

A research report is an expanded paper that


presents interpretations and analyses of a
phenomenon based on experiments and previous
information so that the readers can better understand
it. It is a laborious work produced through formal
investigation and scientific inquiry.

Parts of a Research Report


1. Title Page – contains an informative title that
describes the content of the paper, the name of
author/s, addresses or affiliations, and date of https://www.freepik.com/search?dates=any&for
mat=search&query=research%20report&selectio
submission. Examples of an informative title are n=1&sort=popular&type=vector%2Cpsd%2Cicon
the following:
a. Effects of Facebook on the Academic Achievement of first Year
Students
b. Development and Validation of a Software for Detecting Plagiarism

2. Abstract – contains the summary of the research findings and conclusions. It


briefly presents the context of the study, research questions or objectives,
methodology, major findings, conclusions, and sometimes implications. An
abstract does not contain any citation or a great deal of statistical results. Its
length ranges from 100 to 250 words.

3. Introduction – explains the current state of the field and identifies research
gaps. It is also the part where the research focus is presented by addressing
the identified gaps in the topic. It puts the research topic in context. It is usually
three to five paragraphs long.

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4. Literature Review – contains the summary and synthesis of all available
sources directly related to the study. In a research report, the literature review
is divided into two sections: related concepts and related studies.

Related concepts present some of the fundamental concepts needed by the


readers to better understand the study. Concepts and theories are defined,
explained, and described. Unlike related concepts, related studies are based
on previously conducted studies directly related to the paper. Both the related
concepts and studies will help the writer explain the phenomena that may arise
in the study.

This section ends with a paragraph that synthesizes all of the studies
presented and puts the study in context. Hence, the last paragraph may include
the topic and specific research problems. The length may range from two to
three pages. Note that some cases, the literature review is integrated in the
introduction section.

5. Methodology – describes how the experiments or tests in the research were


conducted. It presents the context within which the study was conducted, the
participants, the instruments used, data gathering procedure, and the data
analysis. In discussing the context of the study and the participants, the number
and the demographic profiles of the participants are explained as well as the
place where the study was conducted.

The discussion of the instrument used presents the tools in gathering data.
These tools may be in the form of a questionnaire, interview, focus group
discussion, survey, and tests, among others. All of the instruments used should
be described in detail, along with the explanation of how they were validated.
The data gathering sections present the details on how the data were collected
while the data analysis section presents how the data were analyzed, either
qualitatively (coding scheme) or quantitatively (statistical tools). The past tense
is used in writing the methodology.

6. Results – factually describes the data gathered and the tables and graphs that
summarize the collected data. Along with the tables and graphs are their
respective interpretations. The flow of the results section should follow the flow
of the research questions/problems/objectives. It is expected that for each
research problem or objective, corresponding results are presented.

7. Discussion – provides an explanation of all the results in relation to the


previous studies presented in the literature review.
In this section, the research problems or objectives, as well as the major
findings, are restated in the first paragraph. The succeeding paragraphs should
explain whether the study supports or rejects the previous findings and explain
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the reasons for this. New findings uncovered in the research should also be
stated. Similar to the flow of the results, the discussion part follows the flow of
the research problems or objectives.

8. Conclusion – contains the restatement of the major findings, the limitations of


the study, the recommendations, and the implications. Note that in some cases,
the conclusion is integrated into the discussion.

9. References – contain the different sources used in the study. These may be
academic books, journals, and other online sources. Its format depends on the
school, teacher, or field of study.

Steps in Writing a Research Report

Writing a research report may seem like a


daunting task, but if you break down the process
into small steps, you will be able to accomplish it
effectively. The stages of writing a research
report also follow the basic writing process, with
the few additions to accommodate and address
the different parts of the report. https://www.freepik.com/search?dates=any&format=search&q
uery=steps%20literature%20review&selection=1&sort=popular
1. Select and narrow down the topic. Use &type=vector%2Cpsd%2Cicon

any of your preferred prewriting activities to generate ideas.


2. Conduct a preliminary research by gathering the initial references.
3. Formulate the thesis statement and research questions. A good thesis
statement effectively guides and controls the flow of your paper.
4. Prepare a preliminary outline.
5. Gather additional references. Use the preliminary outline as a guide for this
stage.
6. Prepare the pre final outline.
7. Prepare your instruments, such as your questionnaire. Below are some
guidelines in preparing a survey instrument.

8. Implement the instrument and gather the data.


9. Analyze the collected data and interpret it through tables and graphs.

25
10. Write the methodology and result sections.
11. Write the introduction and literature review.
12. Write the discussion. Be sure to link the literature review to the discussion section.
13. Write the conclusion.
14. Prepare the reference list. Be sure to list all the items citied in the body of your
paper. It is useful to keep a separate word document or physical notebook where you
can list your reference as you come across them to make sure you do not leave
anything out when you have to prepare the reference list
15. Edit and format your paper. Observe
Preparing the proper
a Survey mechanics.
Instrument
A survey instrument is a document that lists planned questions used to
measure attitudes, perceptions, and opinions of the respondents. It contains
responses directly related to each specific research questions. It can either be in
the form of an interview guide or a questionnaire.
A survey instrument usually has four parts:

• Personal information section for participants/respondents (this is usually


optional since, except for disclosing the gender and age and other general
demographic information, most participants wish to remain anonymous)
• Basic questions that establish the eligibility of the participants/respondents
• Main questions that are directly linked to the research questions.
• Open-ended questions (optional)
When preparing a survey instrument, follow these steps:
a. Do a preliminary research. You may visit your library or use online
sources for this.
b. Talk to a person who is knowledgeable in preparing survey
instruments.
c. Master the guidelines in preparing a questionnaire or interview
guide.
d. Clarify your research questions. Be sure that the items indicated in
your survey instruments are directly related to each specific
research questions.
e. Write the instrument using the appropriate format. Get model
instruments if needed.
f. Edit your instrument and match it with your research questions.
g. Revise when necessary.
h. Pilot your survey instrument to further improve its quality. This
means that you have to get some respondents (colleagues or a
small sample of the target respondents) to try to answer the
instrument and give you feedback. Then, revise the instrument
accordingly.
26
Guidelines in Writing a Research Report
Now that you are aware of the steps in writing a research report, follow the writing
guidelines below to ensure that your report is well-written.
1. Fifty to seventy-five percent of the paper should be devoted to results and
discussion.
2. Be sure to cite all your sources whether they are paraphrased or directly
quoted.
3. As with the previous types of written works, use direct quotations sparingly;
paraphrase as much as possible.
4. Strictly follow the required documentation style.
5. Topics should be relevant, interesting, current, and manageable in terms of
resources, skills needed, and time. They should not be too sensitive and too
controversial.
6. Research questions should directly address the given topic or thesis statement.

Example:
Title: Effect of Facebook on the Academic Performance of Senior High School
Students
Thesis statement: Facebook has an effect on the academic performance of
senior high school students

Research questions:
(1) Does exposure to Facebook affect students’ performance during
examination?
(2) Does exposure to Facebook affect students’ attention span during class
activities?
(3) Does exposure to Facebook affect students’ participation in curricular
activities?

What is it?

Activity 8: Write a research report based on the data below.


Topic : Source: Critical Reading and Writing, Dayagbil, 2016 p. 145

Title : School Drop Outs: Fact or Fallacy


Methodology
Research Method : Descriptive method
Respondents : Grade 6 students who stopped schooling Agan

27
Elementary School, a public school in the
mountain Barangay of Zamboanga.
Procedure : Visited the homes of students who dropped out
Distributed survey instruments and conducted in-
depth interview
Results : Students dropped out from school due to the
following reasons: school is very far from home,
no money for school needs, too many
assignments, does not like the teacher

_____________________________________________
Title
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________

28
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________

Research Report Writing Rubric


Good 3 points Fair 2 points Poor1 point
The article is clearly but The article is clearly The article summary is
succinctly summarized - summarized, but some unclear or overly
only the key points of sub points are detailed, so long as to
the article are touched addressed along with appear more like a short,
Summary
upon. The article main points. The unclear article than a
summary takes up no summary is not summary.
more than one third of succinct, is too long and
the total assignment. cumbersome
Article selected is Article selected may be Article is barely related
current (<5 years), topic current (<5 years) or to task or is grossly out
is specific to task. somewhat older, topic is dated (> 10 years).
Article Choice Article published in related to task, but less Article not from
peer-reviewed scholarly specific. Article acceptable source.
journal. published in peer-
reviewed scholarly
journal.
Summary is well Paper is organized, has Paper is not well
organized, and clearly an intro, body and organized, has an
stated. The points of the conclusion. The unclear or non-existent
article are clear from the purpose of the paper intro, body and
Organization very beginning and the becomes clear within conclusion. The purpose
name and author of the the paper and the name of the paper is unclear
article is made clear and author of the article and the name and
early in the paper. is mentioned within the author of the article is
paper. not stated or stated late.
APA and page length APA and page length (2-
(1) requirements are APA and page length 3 pages) requirements
Mechanics met and there are no (1) requirements are are not met. There are
Requirements grammatical errors or met and there are 1-4 5+ grammatical errors or
typos. grammatical errors or typos.
typos.
Source: https://www.rcampus.com/rubricshowc.cfm?code=E9896B&sp=yes&

29
What I Have Learned

In writing a research report, you must


1. choose a topic that is interesting and relevant to your audience;
2. use the accepted format;
3. accomplish the purpose of each part of the report;
4. acknowledge the sources of the information you used in your report; and
5. be consistent with the citation style that you use. You must also keep in
mind the properties of a well-written text to make your writing appear
more academic.

Great job!
You are done with Lesson 3, have a break! You deserve one.

Then let’s take off to Lesson 4!


So, read on!

30
Lesson Purposeful Writing in the
Disciplines: Writing a Project
8.4 Proposal

What’s New

WRITING A PROJECT PROPOSAL


A project proposal is a highly persuasive and informative documents that aims
to address a particular problem or issue. It is a bid or offer to initiate a project for an
individual or a group. It usually ranges from 1,000 to 2,500 words depending on the
complexity of the project being proposed.
A good project proposal specifies the following:

• Goals and objectives that the project wants to


accomplish;
• Project plan that details how the set goals and
objectives will be accomplished;
• Financial, human (e.g., experts, consultants),
and technical (e.g., equipment and facilities)
resources useful in implementing the project;
and
• Budget that specifies how much money is
needed and for what purpose it will be spent. https://www.freepik.com/free-
vector/man-standing-flipchart-with-
Types of Project Proposal list_4950243.htm#page=1&query=man
%20reporting&position=49
There are four types of project proposals which vary
depending on the context of the problem and the receiver and sender of proposals.
1. Solicited internal
• It is used when the target reader is within the organization.
• It responds to a specific request within the organization.
• The problem has been identified within the organization and the decision to
solve it has been made.
2. Unsolicited internal
• It is used when the target reader is within the organization.
• It is a self-initiated proposal that no one asked for.

31
• The target reader has not yet identified that a problem exists within the
organization; hence, no decision has been made to solve the problem.
3. Solicited external
• It is used when the target reader is not within the organization.
• It responds to a specific request from someone who is not within the
company.
• The problem has been identified and the decision to solve it has been made.
4. Unsolicited external
• It is used when the target reader is not within the organization.
• It is self-initiated proposals that no one ask for.
• The target reader has not yet identified that a problem exists; hence, no
decision has been made to solve the problem.
Parts of a Project Proposal
1. Cover letter
• Introduces the proposals to the reader
• States the project proposal title, date the proposal was requested (if solicited),
general purpose and scope of the proposal, and acknowledgement of people
who have contributed to the completion of the proposals
• Includes the highlights of the proposal and directs the readers to this
highlights
2. Title Page
• Includes the project title that is concise and informative
• Includes the lead organization, place and date of project, client’s or donor’s
name, proponent’s name and the department or organization he/she
represents, and date of submissions
3. Abstract of Executive Summary
• Includes the objectives, implementing organization, major project activities and
total project cost
• Usually composed of 200 to250 words and highlights only the major points;
some abstract may be longer depending on the culture of the funding agency
• Uses a paragraph format
4. Context of the Proposal
• Describes the socio-economic, cultural, and political background in which the
proposal is situated.
• Presents data collected from other sources that are relevant to the planning
stage

5. Project Justification
• Provides a rationale for the project

32
• Includes the problem statement that specifies the problem addressed by the
project
• Points out why the problem is an issue that requires immediate attention
• Specifies the target group’s needs that arise from the adverse effect of the
described problem
• Presents the approach or strategy that will be used to address the problem
• Describes the capability of the implementing organization or group by stating
its track record
Note: When writing this section, justify why your organization or group is the
best group to implement the project.
6. Personnel Involved

• List the people involved in the project, their corresponding roles, and their
summary of qualifications
7. Project implementation

• Is divided into an activity plan which specifies the schedule of activities and a
resource plan which specifies the items needed to implement the project
• Describes the activities and resource allocation in detail, as well as the person
in charge of executing the activities
• Indicates the time and place of activities
8. Budget

• Presents the expected income and expenses over a specified time period
• Itemizes the budget
9. Monitoring and Evaluation

• Specifies when and how the team will monitor the progress of the project
• Specifies the method for monitoring and evaluation
• Specifies the personnel in charge of monitoring and evaluation
10. Reporting Scheme

• Specifies the schedule for reporting the finances and progress of the project
11. Conclusion

• Briefly describes the project, the problem it addresses, and its benefits to all
stakeholders through a summary
• Directs the readers back to the good features of the project
• Urges the readers to contact the proponent to work out the details of the project
proposals
12. References

33
• Lists all the references used in drafting the project proposal using the format
required the funding agency
Guidelines in Preparing for a Project Proposal
1. Decide what the problem is and prepare a rough idea on how this problem can
be addressed.
2. Develop or select a framework that will help you organize your ideas
systematically.

3. Identify the organization that will probably fund your project. These can be
government agencies, non-governmental organizations, private companies,
and foundations, and international funding agencies.
4. Build your project proposal team and appoint a project leader who is
responsible for coordinating activities and communicating with the funding
agency.
5. Identify the organization that will probably fund your project. These can be
government agencies, non-governmental organizations, private companies and
foundations, and international funding agencies.
6. Hold an initial meeting with your team to discuss the plans in preparing the
project proposal.
7. Allot sufficient time for planning.
8. Involve all the team members by assigning specific responsibilities to them.
9. Be realistic with your project proposal. Make sure that your objectives and
activities are within the given time and resources.
10. Contact the funding agency if some items and requirements are not clear to
you.
11. Always put yourself in the shoes of the receiver of the project proposal.
Guidelines in Writing a Project Proposal
1. The title page must be unnumbered but it is considered page I; the back page
of the title page is unnumbered as well; but it is considered page ii. The abstract,
which follows after the title page, is considered page 1 and must already be
numbered.
2. Do not use abbreviations on the title page.
3. Attach the curriculum vitae of the personnel who are part of them.
4. In the project implementation section, use a Gantt chart for presenting the
timeframe.

34
5. Write the abstract after you have completed the report.
6. Study the successful proposals that are similar to yours.
7. Be factual but use technical terms sparingly.
8. Choose a reader-friendly format
9. Use section words to make your proposal more dynamic.

Here is a sample project proposal you can refer to:

I. Project Title:
“Bote Queen”

II. Project Proponents:


This project is headed only by the Supreme Student Government.

III. Project rationale:


In line with vision-mission of the school, this project will help Promote cleanliness
and awareness of the students about the 3Rs; Reduce, Recycle.

IV. Project objectives:

• To expose students in different environmental activities


• To raise fund and support the Supreme Student Government (SSG) projects
• To promote the awareness of the students

V. Project description:
This project will be accomplished through the help of our officers, faculty and staff,
and the support of the students. Each sections will have a representative queen
and they are required to bring bottles for the first and last counting. From their
bottles and other recyclable materials, they will make a presentable costume to
be showcased by their representative and the pageant will begin.
VI. Project Duration:

• Each section will start collecting bottles on march 1,2019 (Friday)


• The first counting will be on March 5,2019 (Tuesday)
• The last counting will be on March 11,2019 (Tuesday)
• The pageant will begin on March 15, 2019 (Friday)

35
VII. Target Beneficiaries:
The five section will start collecting bottles will receive an incentive from the
Supreme Student Government (SSG) on their Christmas Party. The collected
money will be used for the LPCA battle that is proposed to be held in October.

,.

VIII. Propose Budget


The only expenses will be prize (trophy, sash, certificates) for the winning
sections and also the reigned Bote Queen. The budget for this is estimated
at Php 500-Php1500.
IX. Monitoring and Evaluation
This project will be overall managed by the Supreme Student Government
(SSG) and each adviser of the sections will assist their students for the
activities.
Source: http://www.slideshare.com

What is it?

Activity 10: Write a project proposal. Interview the people in the community
including the barangay chairman, counselors, the elderly, mothers, fathers, and
the youth regarding the needs and problems of the community. After the
interview, choose one and write a full blown project proposal.

Complete the given outline to come up a project proposal.

I. Project Title: _____________________________________________

II. Project Proponents:


__________________________________________________
__________________________________________________

III. Project Rationale:


__________________________________________________

36
__________________________________________________
__________________________________________________
__________________________________________________

IV. Project Objective:


__________________________________________________
__________________________________________________
__________________________________________________
__________________________________________________

V. Project Description:
__________________________________________________
__________________________________________________
__________________________________________________
__________________________________________________
__________________________________________________
__________________________________________________

VI. Project Duration:


__________________________________________________
__________________________________________________
__________________________________________________
__________________________________________________
__________________________________________________

VII. Target Beneficiaries:


__________________________________________________
__________________________________________________
__________________________________________________
__________________________________________________

VIII. Propose Budget:


__________________________________________________
__________________________________________________
__________________________________________________

IX. Monitoring and Evaluation:


__________________________________________________
__________________________________________________
__________________________________________________

37
__________________________________________________

Project Proposal Writing Rubric


Excellent Proficient Basic Below Basic
4 pts. 3 pts. 2 pts. 1 pt.

Student shows a Student shows an Student shows Student shows


deep understanding of some very little
understanding of the subject matter understanding of understanding of
the subject matter and it is evident in the subject the subject
Subject and its greater the execution of matter but matter and
Matter implications. the proposal or confusion is thoroughly
Proposal or plan plan. evident in some misinterprets the
shows integration aspects of the requirements for
of some advanced proposal or plan. the class.
or researched
concepts.

The project The project The project The project


proposed is very proposed is proposed is proposed is not
original, creative original, creative somewhat creative, original
and ambitious. The and somewhat creative, original or ambitious, the
Creativity/ student is highly ambitious. The or ambitious the student is
Ambition motivated, and the student is student is not uninspired,
project has a good motivated about very excited but project has a low
potential for the project, and not bored, potential for
success. the project has a project has some success.
good potential for potential for
success success.

Shows excellent Shows good effort, Shows some Shows little or no


effort, care and care and effort, care and effort, care or
creativity. creativity. creativity. creativity.

Final product is Proposal or plan is Proposal or plan Project proposal


Final Product complete and well- finished and is finished and is sloppy,
presented. Shows turned in on time. turned in, but is illegible,
excellent research, Shows good rushed and is crumpled,
careful planning, research, some poorly unfinished or
and excellent planning, vision, presented. incomplete.
execution. and good
execution.

Proposal or plan is Proposal or plan is Proposal or plan Proposal or plan


clear, concise, and well organized, makes general is vague,
Structure and
has a logical and has a sensible sense but disjointed, and
Flow
structure and flow. flow and structure. requires some shows no sense
work to organize of structure, or
Work shows deep Minor elements and structure in flow.

38
consideration of the may need a logical and
execution of the clarification but sensible manner. Confusing to
project after the otherwise well- read, difficult to
proposal's made and ready understand.
approval. for execution.

https://www.rcampus.com/rubricshowc.cfm?code=YX62W64&sp=yes&

What I Have Learned

A project proposal is basically a problem-solution text that aims to persuade


its reader to grant funding on the project or the accomplishment of the solution to the
problem. It has five basic parts, namely, title page, project summary, qualification
budget justification, and project narrative. It includes visual such as Gantt charts, for
timetable, and tables for budget justification and avoids confusing terms such as
jargons, acronyms, and abbreviations specific to a field of study.

Great job!
You are done with Lesson 4, have a break! You deserve one.
Then let’s take off to Lesson 5!
So, read on!

39
Lesson Purposeful Writing in the
Disciplines: Writing a Position
8.5 Paper

What’s New

What is a Position Paper?


A position paper is a type of academic writing that presents one’s stand or
viewpoint on a particular issue. The main objective of writing a position paper is to take
part in a larger debate by stating your arguments and proposed course of action.

Parts of a Position Paper

1. Introduction
• Write the specific issue, together with its importance and effect to the society.
• Use a lead that grabs the attention of readers.
• Define the issue and provide a thorough background.
• Provide a general statement of your position through a thesis statement.
• End the introductory paragraph with a position statement or a stand on the issue.
Keep in mind that one could take only one side of the argument.

2. Body
• The part may have several paragraphs. It may begin with short background
information or a discussion of arguments on both sides of the issue. In each
paragraph, an explanation or observation to clarify the portion of the position
statement must be written and then followed by the supporting evidence.
• State your main arguments and provide sufficient evidence.
• The evidences that can be used are the primary source- quotation, interviews
with field experts, recommendation from scholarly articles and position papers,
historical dates or events, and statistical data.
• Provide counterarguments against possible weaknesses of your arguments.

3. Conclusion
• On the last part of writing the paper, summarize and reinforce the concepts and
facts presented without repeating the introduction and its content. It is also

40
optional to include the procedure used to deal with the issue and your
suggested possible solution or recommendation.
• Explain why your position is better than any other position.
• End with a powerful closing statement (e.g., a quotation, a challenge, or a
question).

Choosing an Issue
1. The issue should be debatable. You cannot take any position if the topic is not
debatable.
2. The issue should be current and relevant.
3. The issue should be written in a question form and answerable by yes or no.
4. The issue should be specific and manageable

Guidelines in Writing a Position Paper


1. Begin the writing process with an in-depth research about the issue at hand.
2. Be aware of the various positions about the issue and explain and analyze them
objectively.
3. Reflect on your position and identify its weaknesses.
4. Establish your credibility by citing reliable sources.
5. Present a unique way of approaching the issue.
6. Limit your position paper to two pages.
7. Analyze your target readers and align your arguments to their beliefs, needs,
interest, and motivations.
8. Summarize the other side’s counterarguments and refute them with evidence.
9. Define unfamiliar terms at first mention.
10. Use an active voice as much possible. This will make your tone dynamic and
firm.
11. Arrange your evidence logically using an inductive or deductive approach.
12. Check your paper for fallacies and revise accordingly.
13. Use ethical, logical, and emotional appeals. Ethical appeals relate to your
credibility and competence as writer; logical appeal refers to the rational
approach in developing and argument; emotional appeals pertain to feelings
evoked during arguments. Make sure to check your appeals to ensure that they
are not fallacious.

41
What is it?

Activity 12: Read the sample position paper. Then answer the questions that
follow.

Committee: General Assembly


Topic: Global Warming
Country: The Kingdom of Sweden
Delegates: *****************
Global warming’s effects and influence on the global climate
is visible all around us now. As time has passed in the past century, Arctic
ice has begun to gradually melt and sea levels have started to rise. If this
situation continues, then low-lying island nations such as Vanuatu and
Maldives will sink into the sea and will simply disappear.
Also, climate is changing in many parts of the world because
of global warming. For example, acid rain damaging soils and forests,
particularly in our country, serious droughts in Australia, and abnormal
weather patterns all over the world. These things are not naturally
occurring phenomena – they were caused by human actions. Our nation is
addressing global warming on a domestic level. For example, we are
separating household waste and recycling as much as we can, and are
imposing taxes on CO2 emissions. Our carbon dioxide emissions are 0.4%
of the global total.
We are raising public awareness of the environmental
problems they will face in the future, and we hope that our people will
address this issue. But individual nations cannot succeed – the only way
to secure our future is if we can get a consensus of nations to take action
to reduce these effects. Humans caused this problem and ultimately they
must address and deal with it.
We must, as global citizens, address this problem actively.
Thank you.

Reading Comprehension
1. What is the issue taken up in the position paper?

2. Do you agree with the assertions made in the article? Explain

3. Does the writer make a strong stand about the issue presented? How did
he/she convince the reader to believe in his/her claim?

42
What is it?

Activity 13: Write a position paper. Research evidences to support your claim
on the issue provided below.

Should parents limit teenager’s use of Social Media?


Issue
______________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________

43
Source: https://www.brownsnotebook.com/uploads/3/1/4/6/31463751/positionpaperrubric_2.pdf

44
What I Have Learned

In writing a position paper, you should


1. describe the issue and your position;
2. present both sides of the issue;
3. refute counterclaims; and (4) use some figurative language and analogies to
explain a point. You should keep in mind the properties of a well-written text to
make your writing easy to read.

Great job!
You are done with Lesson 5, have a break! You deserve one.

45
Senior High School

Reading and Writing Skills


Quarter 4 - Module 3
Purposeful Writing for
Professions

Learning Competency 9: Identify the unique features of and


requirements in composing professional correspondence.
EN11/12RWS-IVhj-13
a) Resume EN11/12RWS-IVhj-13.1
b) Application for College Admission EN11/12RWS-IVhj-13.2
c) Application for Employment EN11/12RWS-IVhj-13.3
d) Various Forms of Office Correspondence
EN11/12RWS-IVhj-13.4
Semester: 2nd Semester
Quarter: 4th Quarter
Number of Hours: 10 Hours

46
Lesson Purposeful Writing for
Professions
9
What’s New

This part of the module discusses about the unique features of composing
professional correspondence. It helps you to learn the purpose, guidelines and
different parts in writing resume, application letter both for employment and college
admission, and office correspondence. Each professional correspondence is followed
by writing activities to practice and enhance your writing skills.

What I Need to Know

By the end of this lesson, you are expected to


1. identify the unique features of and requirements in composing texts that are
professional correspondence
a) Resume
b) Application for College Admission
c) Application for Employment
d) Various forms of Office Correspondence

To achieve the objectives of this module, do the following:


✓ Take your time reading the lessons carefully;

✓ Follow the directions and/or instructions in the activities and exercises


diligently; and

✓ Answer all the given tests and exercises.

47
Lesson Purposeful Writing for Professions:
Writing a Resume
9.1
What’s New

What comes to your mind when you hear the word résumé? Do you think it is
important for you to learn how to write a résumé? Why?

Résumé Formats
When you apply for a job or for any work, hiring administrators like the managers
usually require applicants to submit a résumé. To give them an overview of yourself,
you need to know the different formats in making a résumé so that it fits their standard.
Below are the three types of résumé format for you to follow.

1) Chronological Format
The chronological format is used to emphasize the applicant’s work
experiences progress. It starts with the complete work experiences, followed by
the educational background. It is best used if the applicant is applying for a job
related to his previous experiences, and has ten to fifteen years work experiences.

Heading

-----------------------------------------------
---

Objective:

Work Experience:

Educational Background:

Skills/Expertise:

Voluntary Activities/Involvement:

48
2) Functional Format

Functional format, on the other hand, focuses on the skills, not on the work
history. It is best used if the applicant changed career or if re-entering the industry
after a long absence. It is also used by the high school or college students entering
the industry.

Heading

----------------------------------------------

Objective:

Professional Summary:

Work Experience:

Educational Background:

Skills and Expertise:

3) Combination or Hybrid Format


Combination or Hybrid combines the chronological and functional
format. It works best if the applicant is aiming for a career change or wants to
present both skills and accomplishment.

Heading

-----------------------------------------------
---

Objective:

Professional Summary:

Expertise and Achievements:

Work Experience:

Educational Background:

49
Writing your Resume
Below are the important features of a resume.
1) Heading
The resume heading includes the applicant’s complete name, current
address and contact details such as cell phone number or e-mail address. The
heading can be written in the centre or on the left-side. Make sure that the formatting
style, especially the font type, looks professional.

• Example:
Ronan T. Kina-adman
Los-libertadores St. Comon, Mambajao, Camiguin
Phone: (088) 387-000
Mobile: (+63) 967 570 1927
e-mail: ronankinaadman@yahoo.com

• Explanation:
The heading contains basic information about the applicant.

2) Objectives
An objective also referred to as job objective or career objective, reflects the
applicant’s career goals and intention for applying for the job. Remember to write
a direct and specific objective that contains what you want to achieve in your career
and what the employer could expect from you.

• Example:
To land a job as hotel chamberlain, making every room a home of their own.

• Explanation:
The objective given as an example includes the position and its detailed
description.

3) Professional Summary
Professional summary, also referred to as ‘career summary’ or ‘career
profile’, showcases your knowledge and abilities. It includes short recent job
summary, together with your soft skills (e.g. problem-solving capability, adaptability to
change, etc.).

50
• Example:
Good cleaner, a flexible and hardworking. Hotelier with one year
experience in providing customer service, preparing beds and maintaining
cleanliness of the hotel rooms.

• Explanation:
This highlights the most valuable and recent job experience of the applicant.

4) Expertise and Achievement


This also refers to the ‘professional skills’ and ‘qualification’ of the applicant. It
includes personal and technical skills including the certifications and recognition
received.

• Example:
Order Taking Skills

Received recognition as best housekeeper dated October 2004


excellent in finishing room make up on time

• Explanation:
This is the part where the applicant, with or without experience, can write a
detailed description of his abilities and skills.

5) Work Experience
This is also called "employment history," "relevant experience", or "work
history." Work experience is a part of a résumé where the applicant states all
previous employment. If you have no work experience yet, write first the educational
background, and include the optional part Training and Seminar Attended.

• Example:
Housekeeper
Camiguin Highland Resort
(August 2002- October 2005)

• Explanation:
The example shows the applicant’s job title, the employer and the length of
service.

51
6) Educational Background
The educational background section can also be labelled as Academic,
Academic Qualification or Education and Certifications. Write the degree together with
your major, minor or concentration (if there is any), school and year attended.

• Example:
TESDA
Camiguin School of Arts and Trades
2001-2002

• Explanation:
The inclusion of educational background from preschool to junior high school is
not required in this part. Mentioning only the details on where and when the
applicant got his senior high school and college degree would be enough.

Tips

• Pass the resume with a cover letter. A cover letter gives the employer an
overview why they are receiving the resume, job posting the applicant is
applying for and the matching skills related to the position.
• A resume is used to apply for a job that contains a summary of an applicant’s
personal information, educational background, skills and work experiences
while a Curriculum Vitae (CV) is used to apply for an academic training or grant
that contains a detailed description of a person’s educational background,
academic credential, and achievement.
• It is optional to include the following sections on the resume: Training and
Seminars Attended, Activities and Honors and References.

52
• Here’s a sample resume you can refer to:

Sample Resume – Middle School- Minimal Work Experience

Ima J. Gaudia
Andalucia Street, Opol, Misamis Oriental
home: 904.555.5555
cell: 566.486.2222
email: studentiam@fakemail.com
Education
Currently enrolled in My Town Middle School
My Town, Florida
Work Experience
Pet Sitter
2005 – Present
• Provide pet sitting services including dog walking, feeding, and yard care.
Child Care
2005 – Present
• Provide child care for several families after school, weekends and during
school vacations.
Achievements
• National Honor Society: 2005, 2006, 2007
• Academic Honor Roll: 2005-2007
Volunteer Experience
• Big Brother / Big Sisters
• Food Drives
• Run for Life
Interests / Activities
• Member of My Town Tennis Team
• Girl Scout
• Piano
Computer Skills
• Proficient with Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint

53
What is it?

Activity 15: Fill in the following tables of your own data. After filling in the
desired information, make a formal resume based on your details.

FUNCTIONAL FORMAT

Heading

Objective:

Professional Summary:

Work Experience:

Educational Background:

Skills and Expertise:

54
CHRONOLOGICAL FORMAT
Heading

Objective:

Work Experience:

Educational Background:

Skills/Expertise:

Voluntary Activities/Involvement:

55
COMBINATION or HYBRID

Heading

Objective:

Professional Summary:

Expertise and Achievements:

Work Experience:

Educational Background:

56
What I Have Learned

Resume is a summary of your educational qualification details. It


highlights your skills and experience relevant to the field. It highlights your
objective and accomplishments. Its purpose is to get you an Interview call. A
resume should reflect more than just work experience. It has three types of
resume format: chronological format, functional format and combination or
hybrid format.

Great job!
You are done with Lesson 1, have a break! You deserve one.
Then let’s take off to Lesson 2!
So, read on!

57
Lesson Purposeful Writing for Professions:
Writing an Application for
9.2 Employment

What’s New

What is an employment application letter?


Employment Application Letter is a one-page letter, also referred to as the
"job application letter" or "cover letter” attached to the resume when applying for jobs.
The purpose of writing the employment application letter is to highlight the
applicant’s experiences and personal qualities for him to be considered for an
interview schedule, as well as with the available job position.

Different Letter Formats


The format, including the content and tone of the employment application
letter, depends on the applicant’s preference. Employment application letter or cover
letter has three different formats: full block, modified block and semi-block format.
The content in a cover letter are all the same and will vary on the format or on the
placement of each part.

1) Full Block Format


Applicant’s Address
This is the most
Date
common layout used in
writing cover letter. In this Hiring Person’s Name and Company Address
Salutation
format, all parts are justified
to the left. Body

Complimentary Close

Signature

58
Applicant’s Address
2. Modified Block Format
Date
Another common format used is
Hiring Person’s Name and Company the modified block format.
Address Modified block is a type of format
Salutation where applicant’s address,
complementary close, signature and
Body
sender’s identification is shifted to
the right side. Note that the first
Complimentary Close sentence in the body or in each
paragraph is not indented.
Signature

3. Semi-Block Format Applicant’s Address

The least used format is Date


the semi-block. It is almost the Hiring Person’s Name and Company
same as the modified block Address

format; however, the difference is Salutation


that the first sentence in each
paragraph is indented. Body (First line is indented)
Complimentary Close
Signature

59
If there is no required format, it is recommended to write it in full-block with one-
inch margin on all sides, single spaced and preferably using Times New Roman font
and twelve point font size.

Components of a Letter

1) Heading, Date and Inside Address


The heading includes the applicant’s address to make it easier for the employer
to easily contact the applicant. The date written below the heading indicates the date
when the letter was written. The inside address refers to where and to whom the
letter is addressed. Ensure that there is a line in between heading, date and inside
address.

• Example:
Jerome C. Villa
Andalucia St. Lumbia
Cagayan de Oro CIty

April 03, 2002

Mr. Chris S. Lopez


Human Resource Manager
Springhills Mountain Resort
Gitago, Cagayan de Oro City

• Explanation:
Written on the first two lines of the heading is the address of the applicant.
This includes the street number, city, state and zip code. The format in writing
the date is month-day-year. The inside address includes the name of the
employer or the human resource manager, his job title, name of the company
and address.

60
2) Greeting or Salutation
Greeting or salutation is written to indicate for whom the letter is. It should
start with the word "Dear" followed by the last name of the receiver. End the
salutation with a colon (:). If the name has not been obtained, address it as
“Ma’am/Sir.”

• Example:
Dear Mr. Rozales:
or
Dear Ma’am/Sir:

• Explanation:
The greeting or salutation addresses the person concerned with the hiring
process.

3) The Body
The most important and critical part in writing the employment application letter
is its body. It includes information on the job the applicant is applying for, where
the job posting was seen, and the skills and experiences the applicant
possesses. You can also highlight the reason for a career change, if there is any.
Finalize the letter in two to three sentences by including the reason why the
applicant is perfect for the job and the statement of the applicant’s desire to meet
the employer or human resource person.

• Example:
I am writing to express my interest in the Managerial Position posted at
Jobstreet.com last February 12, 2016. As per the qualification posted in your
advertisement, I consider myself as one of the qualified applicant for the said
position.

Aside from being a graduate of University of the Philippines, I also have five-
year industry experience in managing a local fast-food chain. I am applying in
your good office because I am seeking for a career growth which I believe your
company can provide.

My skills and experiences are included in the resume attached on this letter.
Thank you for taking time in processing my job application papers and I look
forward to meet you at your earliest convenience.

61
• Explanation:
The body of the letter contains information not seen in the applicant’s
resume. In this example, the applicant clearly indicates the desired position,
source of information, qualification and experiences and reason of career shift.

4) Complimentary Close
Complimentary Close is done to politely finish the letter. Note that the
complementary close ends with comma (,).

• Example:
Sincerely,
or
Yours truly,

• Explanation:
Writing the complimentary close shows that the letter has already ended.

5) Signature and Sender’s Identification


This is considered as the last part of the letter. Write your name on the first
line and your title (if applicable) on the second line. Then sign directly above the
first line.

• Example:
(Signature)
Shiela J. Perez

• Explanation:
It shows the name of the job applicant

Tips
• Make sure the letter is free of errors and does not contain any slang or informal
language. This should be written in a professional manner so it would be
considered as a good employment application letter.
• Limit the letter up to one page only. The employer or human resource person
will not have time to read letter longer than this.
• It is advisable to computerize the letter so that it can be read easily and print it
in a good quality paper.
• The cover letter must not repeat elaborated details written in the resume.
• The applicant must not assume that he is hired after submitting the cover letter.
• The employment application letter is attached to the resume and not the
curriculum vitae. Curriculum Vitae are submitted for academic purpose and not
for job application purpose.

What is it?62
Activity 16: Identify and label the parts of the letter Write your answers on the
blanks provided below the figure.

1. _______________________________
2. _______________________________
3. _______________________________
4. _______________________________
5. _______________________________
6. _______________________________
7. What is the format used in the sample above?
_______________________________

Great job!
You are done with the first activity, have a break! You deserve one.
Then let’s take off to more fun activities!
So, read on!

63
What is it?

Activity 18: Visualize your cover letter. Fill in the graphic organizer. After filling
in the desired information, make a formal cover letter.

Source:http://www.readwritethink.org/files/resources/30847_cover.pdf

Step 1: Step 2: Paragraph 1:


Why am I writing?
What kind of Who is my audience?
letter am I
creating?

(Job)

Step 3:

What are the 3 Fs?

Paragraph 2:
What I have to offer?

Effectivenes
Function:
Format: s:
My
I will use… To make this
purpose is
effective I
to…
need to do
the
following… Paragraph 3:
How I meet their criteria?

Paragraph 4:
How am I going to follow up?

Step 4:

What should I include in my letter?

64
What I Have Learned

Employment Application Letter is a one-page letter, also referred to as the


"job application letter" or "cover letter” attached to the resume when applying for jobs.
The purpose of writing the employment application letter is to highlight the
applicant’s experiences and personal qualities for him to be considered for an
interview schedule, as well as with the available job position. It has different letter
formats: full block format, modified block format and semi-block format.

Great job!
You are done with Lesson9. 2, have a break! You deserve one.
Then let’s take off to Lesson 9.3!
So, read on!

65
Lesson Purposeful Writing for Professions:
Writing an Application for College
9.3 Admission

What’s New

College Admission Letter and Essay

College Admission Letter also referred to as the "letter of intent," is a one-


page letter required for college and university admission. The sender writes a letter to
briefly discuss his intention for attending the college program. College Admission
Essay, or known as "statement of purpose" or "personal statement," is an essay
written by the student applicant to answer the essay topics given by the admission
office.

Pre-writing
Before you write a college admission letter and essay, you must first determine
the program you want to take, followed by a thorough research on program
structure. Then reflect on your purpose in enrolling the course, your
achievements, and future goals. Decide the format to use in writing a letter. If
there is no required format, write the letter in a full-block style, meaning all parts are
aligned to the left, with the format of one-inch margin, twelve-point font size, and
single-spaced paragraph.

Writing your College Admission Letter


1) Heading, Date and Inside Address
Write on the top left the heading that includes your complete address and zip
code. It is the address of the sender. The date should be fully spelled out. The inside
address contains the name of the college or university admission head, his job title (if
applicable) and the address of the university. It is the address of the receiver. Skip a
line between the heading, date, and inside address.

• Example:
a) Heading:

66
B15 L21 Amarillo St.
Brgy. Rizal, Makati 1218

b) Date:

February 16, 2016

c) Inside Address:

Ms. Katarina Katigbak


Officer-in-Charge, Admission Section
Office of the Registrar
University of Science and Technology of Southern Philippines
Lapasan, Cagayan de Oro City

• Explanation:
The heading is a receiver’s quick reference to the sender’s address and can
be used if the letter has to return. The date indicates when the letter is written,
and the inside address refers to whom and where the letter is addressed.

2) Greeting or Salutation
It starts mostly with the word "Dear" followed by the last name of the receiver.
End the salutation with a colon (:). If the name has not been obtained, address it
as “Ma’am/Sir”.

• Example:
Dear Ms. Katigbak:
or
Dear Ma’am/Sir:

• Explanation:
The greeting or salutation addresses the person concerned with the
admission process.

3) The Body
The body is the main part of the letter which includes the course you are
interested in, reason for choosing the university, description of academic interest,
the basis for them to consider your application, and plans, if any. Last part will be
your request to consider your application for admission and information on how to
contact you.

67
• Example:
I am writing to inform you of my interest in applying for Bachelor of Science in
Biology at your prestigious school – University of Science and Technology of
Southern Philippines.

I am enthusiastic to conduct researches in science. As shown in my scholastic


achievements and the documents attached, I am part of the team that ranked
second in the recent National Science Investigatory Project. The university
offers the best tertiary education in the country and is at its prime in research
and publication. Because of this, studying at the university would help me
improve my research skills as I deepen my knowledge of biological science.

I plan to allot most of my time, during and after my studies, in conducting


biological research. I envision myself doing research for the benefit of my
countrymen.

I hope for your kind consideration. For any questions or concern, contact me at
this number 09675701927

• Explanation:
The body of the letter entails the course chosen and the reason for choosing
the college as part of his academic career. The academic achievements related
to the course, future goal and a contact detail of the applicant are also included.

4) Complimentary Close
Complimentary Close is a polite way of finishing the letter. Remember that
it always ends with comma (,).

• Example:
Sincerely,
or
Yours Truly,

• Explanation:
Writing the complimentary close shows that the letter has already ended.

5) Signature and Sender’s Identification


This is the last part of the letter. Write your name on the first line and your
title (if applicable) on the second line. Then sign directly above the first line.

68
• Example:
(Signature)
Shiela A. Canillas

• Explanation:
It shows the name of the college applicant.

Writing a College Admission Essay


Most admission essays have a limit of two hundred to five hundred words and
usually answers assigned topic. The challenge here is to showcase you - as the right
candidate - for their university in a limited number of words. Remember that the
purpose of this essay is to know more of your personality without repeating
what is written in the profile or registration form. It should answer the question or
topic clearly.

Introduction
The introduction should catch the attention of the reader. It should contain the
main concept for your essay. You can also restate the question without repeating the
exact words.

• Example:
Topic: Explain why you would like to pursue a program in our college.

My goal is not just to finish a degree. It should be finishing a degree in this


college.

• Explanation:
This shows the main idea of the essay. It is short, but it captures the
attention of the reader.

Content
This is the part where you should answer the topic or question with clarity.
Provide justification based on the experience you have undergone. You can also
incorporate the factors that drive you into finishing your studies.

• Example:
To be enriched holistically to serve the country cannot be possible if without
the help of the college. It is because the college has the best professors in the
country – professors that are not only into teaching but also in moulding the
students.

69
• Explanation:
In this example, the applicant states the personal reason for pursuing a
degree. It answers the question or topic clearly.

Conclusion
To end the essay, write your plans after you graduate from their college.
You could also include the reinforcing statement stating that you are one of the best
applicants to their college.

• Example:
After finishing my degree, I am looking forward to working with a research
laboratory to be of aid to our country in adding more scientific knowledge of the
world around us. All of this would be possible with the help of the college.

• Explanation:
The conclusion in this example depicts the long term goal of the college
applicant.

Tips

• In writing a college admission letter, use a full-block style or the format


prescribed by the college.
• In writing a college admission essay, answer the questions directly and state
specific experiences and or achievements to support your answer.
• Make sure that it is written in a positive tone, well-written and free of errors.

70
Sample College Application Letter Writing Tips:

• As it is a formal letter, words and phrases should be chosen carefully.


• The language should be simple and easy to understand.
• The content should be short and straightforward.

__________ (Dean’s name)


__________ (College address)
__________
__________

From:
______________ (Your name)
______________ (Your address)
______________

Date __________ (date of writing letter)

Dear Sir/Madam:
I came to know through one of your college students that you are conducting a special
workshop for management students. I am studying ………………. (name of course) in
…………….(name of institute) and would like to attend it. I would like to know if there
is any application to be submitted. If so, I request you to send me the application form
to my address.
The training programs you conduct are popular in the industry and I want to take
advantage of this opportunity. I understand that several big names in the industry are
associated with the program. Many students belonging to various colleges are
interested to participate in the training program and get benefitted.
Please inform me through email or you can contact me on my telephone
number_______.
I’m looking forward to hear from you.

Yours sincerely,
___________ (Your name)

71
What is it?

Activity 20: Write your own college admission letter. Fill out the various parts of
the letter with your information. Use the blank page provided on the next page.

(Your address)

(Date)
(Address of audience)

(Salutation) Dear ____________,

(Paragraph 1: State the name of that college / university and briefly explain why you are
the best choice. You should also state where you learned about their school.)

(Paragraph 2: Describe in more detail what you will bring to this college / university or
why you are the best choice.)

(Paragraph 3: Describe your interest in what you are applying for. Show the reader that
you know what they value, why it is important, and how you meet their criteria.)

Paragraph 4: Tell the reader to contact you if they need additional information. Provide
your phone number and/or email and the best time to reach you.)

Sincerely,

Your name

Source: http://www.readwritethink.org/files/resources/30847_steps.pdf

Rubric College Admission Letter Writing

72
Needs
Excellent Very Good Satisfactory
Improvement
4 pts. 3 pts. 2 pts.
1 pt.

Format is One of the Two of the Three of the


correct, following parts is following parts following parts
including your incorrectly are incorrectly are incorrectly
address, date, formatted: your formatted: your formatted: your
Format
inside address, address, date, address, date, address, date,
salutation, body, inside address, inside address, inside address,
closing, and salutation, body, salutation, body, salutation, body,
signature. closing, and closing, and closing, and
signature. signature. signature.

Body includes Missing one Missing two Missing three or


at least three component from components from more
complete the following: at the following: at components from
paragraphs. A least three least three the following: at
Body
clear purpose is complete complete least three
(Content)
clearly stated paragraphs, paragraphs, complete
and conveyed clearly stated clearly stated paragraphs,
to the reader. purpose purpose clearly stated
purpose

Grammar Grammar and Grammar and/or Several errors in Many errors in


and spelling are spelling errors grammar and/or grammar and/or
Spelling correct. are minimal (<2 spelling (>2 spelling (>4
errors). errors). errors).

Language/ The language is One word is not Two words are More than three
Audience appropriate for appropriate for not appropriate words are not
Language is the audience. the audience. for the audience. appropriate for
formal and the audience.
appropriate.

The letter is free The letter The letter The letter


of redundant contains no more contains more contains so much
and/or than two cases of than two cases of redundant and/or
superfluous redundant and/or redundant and/or superfluous
Conciseness wording. superfluous superfluous information that
wording. wording, but they the message is
do not distract weakened.
from the
message.

https://www.rcampus.com/rubricshowc.cfm?sp=yes&code=T5478C&

What I Have Learned


73
College Admission Letter also referred to as the "letter of intent," is a one-page
letter required for college and university admission. The sender writes a letter to briefly
discuss his intention for attending the college program. College Admission Essay, or
known as "statement of purpose" or "personal statement," is an essay written by the
student applicant to answer the essay topics given by the admission office.

Great job!
You are done with Lesson 3, have a break! You deserve one.
Then let’s take off to Lesson 4!
So, read on!

Lesson Purposeful Writing for Professions:


Writing an Office Correspondence
9.4
What’s New

Office correspondence, also known as the ‘business correspondence’, is a


written exchange of internal and external communication to support all business
processes. It has three major forms including the business letter, business memo and
business e-mail that may be used for internal or external communication. Internal
correspondence means that there is a communication or agreement between
departments or branches of the same company, while external correspondence
means that the communication is between the company and another organization or

74
firm. The purpose of the correspondence is to communicate the information in a clear
and professional way.

1) Business Letter

Business letter is the traditional way of communicating information from one


company to another or used in external correspondence. The format can either be
full block, modified block and semi-block. The format used in writing a business
letter depends on the requirements set by the company. Different types of letters
are sales letter, order letter, complaint letter, inquiry letter, adjustment letter,
acknowledgement letter, follow-up letter, acknowledgement letter, cover letter,
letter of recommendation and letter of resignation.

75
Example of an Inquiry Letter

Andalucia St., Lumbia


Cagayan de Oro City

April 26, 2019

Mr. Dehren Jun L. Perez


Human Resource Manager
Springhills Mountain Resort
Cagayan de Oro CIty

Dear Mr. Perez:

I am writing to ask if you have found a person to fill up the position of Operations
Manager as posted on your website. We currently have two qualified applicants that
fit the position.

Attached herewith are the resumes of the applicants, for your perusal. We look
forward to work with you again and hope to hear feedback from you.

Thank you and more power!

Sincerely,
(signature)
Flynt Verlie L. Perez

Human Resource Manager


Welcome Travel Agency

Explanation:
The letter of inquiry as an example includes the heading, date, inside address,
salutation, body, complimentary close, signature and sender’s information. This letter
is an external correspondence between two difference companies.

76
2) Business Memo

Business memo is a written communication strictly between the company’s


offices to another, or used in internal correspondence. The difference between a
memo and a letter is that the memo has its title line and series number. The employees
tend to read the if the title line is related to their job description. It is also used to
implement internal guidelines or procedures that the employees must follow. Some
types of memos are operational memo, financial memo, request for action,
directives, trip report, field report and dress code memo among others.

Example of Announcement Memo

Happy Learning Center


Analucia St. Lumbia, Cagayan de Oro City
Series No. 17 - 261

To: All School Teachers

From: The Head Teacher

Date: February 26, 2019

Subject: School Party

In line with the approved budget for the year 2018 - 2019 is the pursuance of the
proposed company outing this coming March 21 to 22 at the San Gregorio Farms
and Leisure. We advise everyone to prepare your sports outfit and toiletries. We
look forward to see you enjoy in our two day company outing.

Thank you for your continuous support.

(signature)
Flynt Verlie L. Perez

Explanation:
The announcement memo includes information about the company outing of
the employees. The company also uses their own letterhead.

77
3) Business e-mail
Business e-mail is an office correspondence that can either be internal or
external. There is no required format in writing e-mail correspondence but it is
expected that the writer maintain a professional tone. Note that the header of the
letter is written on the blank fields including the ‘from’ and ‘to’ fields. ‘From’ contains e-
mail from the sender while the field ‘to’ contains the email of the recipient.

Example of a Business e-mail

From: Flnt Verlie P.


To: Jessa H. jessa@hr.heping.com
Subject: Re: Vacant Position for supervisorship

Dear Ma’am Jessa:

Good day!

In behalf of Areflor Funeral Homes, we extend our deepest gratitude for helping us
scout qualified applicants in the industry. We hope to work again with you.

Cheers!

Best regards,
Flynt Verlie L. Perez
Human Resource Personnel
Flora Homes Caven
Cagayan de Oro City
Tel. No. (088) 123-234-345

Explanation:
In the above example, the e-mail correspondence is informal and external. It
expresses gratitude towards the effort made by the manpower agency.

Tips

• Make sure the office correspondence is concise and easy to understand. It


is recommended for a correspondence to have brief sentences and paragraphs
for the employees tend to read it quickly.
• Controlling the tone of writing is important in any office correspondence. It
should not sound too formal or too informal.

78
What is it?

Activity 21: Rearrange the memo accordingly. Use the space provided below.

To : Lauren Simon, DSWD Regional Director


Date :
We came to know that the relief good sent for the Prime Minister’s
Emergency Fund are not being distributed properly. Instead of the real flood
victims, the relief good are going to the influential who are not at all flood
affected.
26 January, 2013
Subject : Request for Proper Distribution of Relief Goods
We hope that you will direct the authority concerned to investigate into the
matter and ensure proper distribution of the relief goods.
From : Leila Gomez, Undersecretary DSWD

What I Have Learned

Office correspondence is a written exchange of internal and external


communication to support all business processes. It is also known as the business
correspondence.

A business letter is a traditional way of communicating information from one


company to another or used in external correspondence.

A business memo is a written communication strictly between the company’s


offices to another.

A business e-mail is an office correspondence that can either be internal or


external. There is no required format in writing e-mail correspondence but it is
expected that the writer maintains a professional tone.

79
80

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