Professional Documents
Culture Documents
UNIVERSITY OF MINDANAO
College of Arts and Sciences Education
Languages Discipline
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Table of Contents
Page
Course Outline 6
Course Information 11
Weeks 1-3
Unit Learning Outcomes (ULO-a) 12
Metalanguage 12
Essential Knowledge 12
ULO-a Activities 15
Metalanguage 21
Essential Knowledge 22
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Technical Communication: 22
Its Background and Purposes
Characteristics of Effective 24
Technical Communication
ULO-b Activities 28
Weeks 4-6
Unit Learning Outcomes (ULO-a) 33
Metalanguage 33
Essential Knowledge 33
Spelling 34
Capitalization 37
ULO-a Activities 40
Metalanguage 44
Essential Knowledge 44
Subject-Verb Agreement 44
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ULO-b Activities 47
Metalanguage 53
Essential Knowledge 53
ULO-c Activities 60
Weeks 7-9
Unit Learning Outcomes (ULO-a) 63
Metalanguage 63
Essential Knowledge 63
ULO-a Activities 79
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Metalanguage 83
Essential Knowledge 83
ULO-b Activities 89
Metalanguage 93
Essential Knowledge 93
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Email: lleses_candice@umindanao.edu.ph
Mobile: 09174348262
Requisites: None
Credit: 3
Contact and Non-contact Hours This 3-unit course self-instructional manual is designed
for blended learning mode of instructional delivery with
scheduled face to face or virtual sessions. The
expected number of hours will be 54, including the face
to face or virtual sessions. The face to face sessions
shall include the summative assessment tasks (exams)
if warranted.
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pieces of evidence.
Return of Assignments/ Assessment tasks will be returned to you two (2) weeks
Assessments after the submission. This will be returned by email or
via the Blackboard portal.
Re-marking of Assessment Papers You should request in writing addressed to the program
and Appeal coordinator your intention to appeal or contest the
score given to an assessment task. The letter should
explicitly explain the reasons/points to contest the
grade. The program coordinator shall communicate
with the students on the approval and disapproval
of the request.
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Preferred Referencing Style Use the 7th Edition of the APA Publication Manual
Students with Special Needs Students with special needs shall communicate with
the course coordinator about the nature of his or her
special needs. Depending on the nature of the need,
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This course will help you appreciate more the function of English language in
the world of employment. Through this course, you will have a deeper
understanding of the necessity for excellent writing skills to make sure that success
is achieved in your chosen career or profession.
Let us begin!
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Big Picture
Weeks 1-3: Unit Learning Outcomes (ULO-a):
a. Identify the importance of writing and improvement of technical writing skills in the
professional world and
b. Develop a comprehensive understanding of the background, purposes, and
characteristics of effective technical communication.
Metalanguage
In this section, the most essential terms relevant to the study of GE 14 (Technical
Writing) and to demonstrate ULO-a are operationally defined to establish a common
frame of reference as regards the concepts introduced herein. You will encounter these
terms as we go through the study. Please refer to these definitions in case you will
encounter difficulty in understanding some of these concepts or the topic at hand.
Technical communication is oral and written communication for and about business
and industry.
Essential Knowledge
To perform the aforesaid big picture (unit learning outcomes) for the first three
(3) weeks of the course, you need to fully understand the following essential
knowledge that will be laid down in the succeeding pages. Please note that you are
not limited to exclusively refer to these resources. Thus, you are expected to utilize
other books, research articles and other resources that are available in the university’s
library e.g. ebrary, search.proquest.com etc.
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Communication skills are very significant in the workplace. Oral and written
communication skills are both needed in any workplace; thus, we are all expected to know
the foundations on how to become excellent communicators in the professional world.
1
Proofreading and Editing Skills. It is integral in anything you write to reread it before
it takes its final form. It is advisable to read aloud what is written so that you can see
and listen to your work. The more senses you use, the more effective your
proofreading and editing will be. It is essential, though, to have some journalistic
background on how editing is done, including the symbols used for correcting.
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2
Listening Skills. Of all the skills, listening is the most taken for granted. This is the
reason why so many professionals fail to give good outputs. They simply did not
listen to the instructions of their managers well. Listening requires an accurate
interpretation of messages. These skills also require comprehension, which, when
combined with accuracy, spells out a strong listening skill. For example, you need to
listen well during forums and meetings, telephone conversations, and introductions
purposefully to cull or pick out important matters that must be remembered or
recorded and to filter extraneous or unnecessary pieces of information.
3
Creativity. People with a high degree of imaginative ability can put it to work in
many ways, such as developing interesting and attractive layouts for the office,
drafting more efficient forms for work simplification, and devising innovative ways
of working with other members of the office staff.
4
Human Relations. Establishing harmonious relations in business basically centers
on the ability to react positively to co-workers and managers. If you are the
manager, you will be exposed to different forms of pressure brought about by the
demands of your job. In any case, you have to keep cool even under extreme
pressure. You have to show an ability to get along with all co-workers regardless of
their professional levels. You should display loyalty, dependability, and good
judgment. An effective person tries to foresee unusual situations before they arise.
They should also be able to become a temporary substitute for an employee who
may be unexpectedly absent.
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A person with human problems will have difficulty in performing his or her job well.
Everyone must possess human relations skills, which is the ability to work effectively with
people and to build teamwork.
Self-Help: You can also refer to the sources below to help you further understand the
lesson.
1. Aquino, F., Callang, C., Bas, H., & Capili, C. (2010). Business English & correspondence.
Mandaluyong City: National Book Store.
2. Gerson, S. & Gerson, S. (2012). Technical communication: Process and product. United
States: Pearson Education. E-book Access: https://web.uettaxila.edu.pk/CMS/UG/CK-MCT-
125/notes/TRW-%207th%20edition.pdf
3. Nadell, J., Langan, J., & Comodromos, E. (2009). The Longman Writer: Rhetoric, reader,
research guide, and handbook. United States: Pearson Education.
Let’s Check
Now that you have fully understood about technical writing and its importance, it
would be appropriate that you evaluate yourself in terms of your communication skills.
Please honestly answer each item so that you could pre-assess the things that you need to
improve as we course through this learning journey.
1. Do you think you are ready to compete in the professional world? Discuss your
answer.
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________________________________________________________________________
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Let’s Analyze
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Answer the following questions comprehensively. Please consider the given criteria for
scoring:
Substance/Discussion- 10 points
Organization of Ideas- 5 points
Language Use- 5 points
Total- 20 points per item
1. Given that most professionals do not have excellent writing skills, what do you think will
happen to most businesses or institutions? Provide concrete examples to elaborate on your
answer.
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2. Among the technical skills that every professional need to possess, choose two, and
discuss the importance of polishing these skills.
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___________________________________________________________________________
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In a Nutshell
Identify the number that corresponds to your level for each skill identified (1 being the
lowest and 5 being the highest level). After determining your level, answer the questions
below.
Proofreading and
Editing Skills
Listening
Skills
Creativity
Human Relations
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What is your rate for each of the skills, and why do you rate yourself that way? Provide a
detailed explanation below for each skill.
Listening Skills:
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
Creativity:
___________________________________________________________________________
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___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
Human Relations:
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Q&A List
Questions/Issues Answers
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Keywords Index
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Metalanguage
For you to exemplify ULO-b, you will need to have an operational understanding of the
following terms below. You will encounter these terms as you go through this topic. Please
refer to these definitions in case you encounter difficulty in understanding some concepts.
Conciseness. This quality refers to how short yet complete a technical document is.
Courtesy. This quality of effective technical communication refers to the apt use of
words that signal sincerity and respect to avoid the existence of offensive words or
innuendoes.
Essential Knowledge
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To perform the aforesaid unit learning outcome, you need to fully understand
the following essential knowledge that will be laid down in the succeeding pages.
If you are a criminologist or a law enforcer, you will be expected to write police
blotter reports or any other reports needed in the field of police enforcement.
If you are an engineer, you will be expected to draft plans and proposals for various
engineering-related projects. You will also be asked to present field reports and other
laboratory reports needed in the field.
If you are a healthcare provider, you will be expected to submit reports about a
patient or other clients. You could also be asked to submit health management reports or
any other reports in the field of healthcare.
If you are a tourism or hospitality management expert, you will be asked to create
summative and narrative reports on hotel or restaurant sales and services. Also, you will
be asked to prepare business proposals to improve small-scale or large-scale businesses 22
in
the tourism industry.
Technical writing will help you communicate your ideas effectively in the workplace.
Generally, technical communication is a major component of the work environment.
Through technical correspondence, employees…
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In the world of professionals and businesses, one cannot underestimate the help of
technical communication. Undeniably, technical communication allows not only a business
but also a professional success in a competitive world.
1. Clarity. Clearly, worded and organized messages help the receiver to comprehend the
contents and purposes of a message easily. Such messages use comprehensible sentences
free from misplaced modifiers and rambling thought patterns. These statements are
organized so that one thought grows naturally from another, and paragraphs contain one
main idea only. Paragraphs, too, must take the reader along a continuum of ideas so that
the entire message portrays an intelligible picture for the reader. In reviewing written
documents, a writer must look for these qualities.
1.1. Sentence Construction. Sentences must be constructed well so that the reader can
easily identify “who is doing what.” Related words placed in a logical and consecutive
order enable the reader to follow the writer’s thought patterns. By placing word
groups that describe other though units as closely as possible to the words they
modify, writers can avoid ambiguity and confusion. Take these sentences as
examples:
Incorrect: The contract should be signed by Mr. Aguirre on the dotted line. (Imagine, Mr.
Aguirre is on the dotted line.)
Correct: The contract should be signed on the dotted line by Mr. Aguirre. (Now, the
signature must be done on the dotted line.)
Incorrect: As newcomers to our community, the merchants of ABC Company wish to
make available to you a variety of complimentary products and services. (Here, the
merchants are the newcomers.)
Correct: As newcomers to our community, you are invited to make advantage of a variety
of complimentary products and services offered by the merchant of ABC Company. (Here,
you are one of the newcomers).
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Poor: As soon as we receive another shipment of Bunawan crystal, your order will
receive top priority. We are doing everything possible to restock our inventory. The
10-inch Agora vase is presently out of stock. We appreciate receiving your recent
order for Bunawan crystal.
Better: We appreciate your recent order for Bunawan crystal. The 10-inch Agora vase
you requested is presently out of stock. We appreciate receiving you recent order for
Bunawan crystal; filling your order will be our top priority.
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The successful business writer always provides the reader with all the necessary
details. The easier it is for the reader to react to the writer’s message, the more fruitful
the communication effort will be. During the revision process, editors must take the
place of their readers and assume they know nothing about the information contained
in the document being edited. In this way, editors can spot omissions of both major
ideas and essential details.
3. Conciseness. Too often, writers and editors equate conciseness with brevity. The
message should be as short as possible, but without any significant details or ideas being
omitted.
The message “Meet me at exactly 2 p.m.” is short, yet without knowing the date
or place, the reader would be unable to respond to the message. A more effective
version of this sentence would be, “Please meet me on Friday, June 15, at exactly 2 p.m.
in Room TEC 114 of the GET Building.” Despite the length of this sentence, it is better
because it provides all the necessary details.
Poor: Our marketing director thinks that perhaps next week or the following one,
we will find ourselves in the appropriate position to announce to the industry and to
the public our newly developed and inexpensive scanner, the All-Print Reader.
Better: Our marketing director anticipates that within the next two weeks, we will
be ready to announce our new, inexpensive scanner-the All-Print Reader.
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4. Consistency. Like the proofreader, the editor must check for consistency. Check to make
sure that courtesy titles have been used consistently throughout. If you mentioned “Ms.
Guzman,” avoid stating “Mrs. Guzman” in one place. Although both titles are correct,
there must be consistency. There should also be consistency in terms of names and
references to companies and associations. Headings and subheadings must also be
consistent with the same word format.
The use of concrete nouns and precise verbs enables the reader to picture and grasp more
easily the ideas presented.
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6. Courtesy. Words such as please, thank you, and appreciate/connote courtesy that
creates goodwill and understanding. Successful editors rid documents of offensive
words or innuendoes. These editors strive to ensure that the message reflects as much
as possible the reader’s viewpoint. Avoid antagonism in any form.
Self-Help: You can also refer to the sources below to help you further understand the lesson:
1. Aquino, F., Callang, C., Bas, H., & Capili, C. (2010). Business English & correspondence.
Mandaluyong City: National Book Store.
2. Gerson, S. & Gerson, S. (2012). Technical communication: Process and product. United
States: Pearson Education. E-book Access: https://web.uettaxila.edu.pk/CMS/UG/CK-MCT-
125/notes/TRW-%207th%20edition.pdf
3. Nadell, J., Langan, J., & Comodromos, E. (2009). The Longman writer: Rhetoric, reader,
research guide, and handbook. United States: Pearson Education.
Let’s Check
Copy and Edit
Instruction: Copy the following paragraphs on the box below; then edit them for the
correctness of expression. Locate the following errors: (a) 3 grammar errors, (b) 3
punctuation errors, (c) 4 capitalization errors, (d) 6 spelling errors, and (e) 4 number-usage
errors.
You are amoung a prefered group of Zobebel charge customers who is being invited to
save 25 to 50% on our collection of fine furniture. For two days you will have a opportunity
to chose from furniture, that has been gathered from all our stores just for this exciting
sale. This event will not e advertized to the public.
This is your chance to save hundreds of pesos on living room dinning room and bedroom
suites. mark october second and third on your calender, and join us in the Furniture
Department of Zobebel at the fiesta pavillion mall. We hope to see you their.
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Let’s Analyze
Reflect and Write
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In a Nutshell
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In each box, write a quality of effective technical communication and explain why this
quality needs to be achieved when writing technical documents.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Q&A List
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Questions/Issues Answers
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Keywords Index
Big Picture
Weeks 4-6: Unit Learning Outcomes (ULO-a):
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Metalanguage
In this section, the most essential terms relevant to the study of GE 14 (Technical
Writing) and to demonstrate ULO-a are operationally defined to establish a common
frame of reference as regards the concepts introduced herein. You will encounter these
terms as we go through the study. Please refer to these definitions in case you will
encounter difficulty in understanding some of these concepts or the topic at hand.
Grammar is the study of the classes of words, their inflections, and their functions
and relations in the sentence.
Essential Knowledge
To perform the aforesaid big picture (unit learning outcomes) for the three (3)
weeks of the course, you need to fully understand the following essential knowledge
that will be laid down in the succeeding pages. Please note that you are not limited
to exclusively refer to these resources. Thus, you are expected to utilize other books,
research articles and other resources that are available in the university’s library e.g.
ebrary, search.proquest.com etc.
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In any technical communication, grammar and mechanics are essential elements. When
writing technical documents, it is vital to consider correctness in the following: (1) spelling, (2)
capitalization, (3) punctuation, and (4) grammar usage.
Spelling
“Spelling need not be a mystery” (Nadell, Langan, & Comodromos, 2009). For
reference, it is important to have an on-hand updated copy of a dictionary. If you use a word
processor, there is an automatic “spell check” program. Another strategy to improve your
ability to correct spelling words is through keeping a personal inventory of the words you
misspell. Lastly, it is also important to know about basic spelling rules to minimize spelling
errors.
The rule does not apply if the i and e are in separate syllables: science or society. It
also does not apply to the following exceptions:
2. Doubling the final consonant. This rule applied to words that satisfy the
following conditions.
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o The word’s last three letters must be consonant, vowel, consonant and
o The word must be either one syllable (plan) or accented on the final
syllable (control).
In such cases, double the final consonant before adding an ending that begins
with a vowel (such as -ed, -er, -al, and -ing):
3. Dropping the final silent e: For a word that ends in a silent e, drop the e
before adding an ending that begins with a vowel.
cope/coping receive/receivable
cute/cutest guide/guidance
Exceptions include the following: truly, awful, argument; dyeing and singeing
(to avoid confusion with dying and singing); changeable, courageous,
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manageable, noticeable, and similar words where the final e is needed to keep
the sound of the g or c soft.
5. Words ending in -f and -fe: Words ending in -f and -fe normally change to -ves
in the plural.
leaf/ leaves life/lives
knife/ knives wife/ wives
6. Common spelling errors: Homonyms are words that sound alike but have
different spellings and meaning. Here are a few of the most troublesome:
Capitalization
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Capitals are used to (1) mark a beginning of a sentence and (2) signal a proper noun or
adjective. The following principles, lifted from Business English & Correspondence by Aquino,
Callang, Bas, and Capili (2010), describe the most common uses of capital letters.
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b. “The President denied the story,” the paper reports, “and feels the
media have acted irresponsibly.”
c. The paper goes on to say that “the President feels the media are
irresponsible.”
Rule 5: The first word of a direct question within a sentence or of a series of
questions within a sentence may be capitalized.
The question is this: Exactly what strategies should accountants make? How
much reengineering should the company undertake? How much would it
cost?
Rule 6: (a) The first word following a colon may be lowercased or capitalized if it
introduces a complete sentence; while the former is the more usual styling, (b) the
latter is common especially when the sentence introduced by the colon is fairly
lengthy and distinctly separate from the preceding clause.
Call to order
Roll call
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President’s report
b. On the agenda will be (1) call to order, (2) roll call, (3) minutes of the
previous meeting, and (4) president’s report.
Rule 8: The first letter of the first word in an outline heading is capitalized.
a) I. Manager’s tasks
II. Production responsibilities
A. Loan generation
B. Look to automation support
Rule 9: The first letter of the first word in a salutation and a complimentary close is
capitalized, as is the first letter of each main word following SUBJECT and TO
headings as in memoranda.
a) Dear Luz
b) My dear Dr. Lim
c) TO: All Department Managers
d) Sincerely yours,
e) Very truly yours,
f) SUBJECT: Vacation Leave
Self-Help: You can also refer to the sources below to help you further understand the
lesson.
1. Aquino, F., Callang, C., Bas, H., & Capili, C. (2010). Business English & correspondence.
Mandaluyong City: National Book Store.
2. Gerson, S. & Gerson, S. (2012). Technical communication: Process and product. United
States: Pearson Education. E-book Access: https://web.uettaxila.edu.pk/CMS/UG/CK-MCT-
125/notes/TRW-%207th%20edition.pdf
3. Nadell, J., Langan, J., & Comodromos, E. (2009). The Longman writer: Rhetoric, reader,
research guide, and handbook. United States: Pearson Education.
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Let’s Check
Check and Spell Correctly
Instruction: If the sentence has a spelling mistake, correct it by rewriting the misspelled
word. If the sentence has no mistake, write NE.
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Let’s Analyze
Capitalize Correctly!
Instruction: If the sentence has no error, write NE. If it has errors, rewrite the sentence to
make it correct.
A. Smoking
B. Pollution
____________ 9. dear Karen
In a Nutshell
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Instruction: Answer the following questions comprehensively. Please consider the criteria
presented below.
Content- 5 points
Language Use- 5 points
Total- 10 points
1. Do you believe that there must be a standard language to be used in technical writing?
Discuss comprehensively.
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2. Provide a scenario where mistakes in spelling and capitalization in technical writing could
have a big impact. Discuss how proper spelling and capitalization could affect the quality
and function of technical documents.
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___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
Q&A List
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Questions/Issues Answers
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Keywords Index
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Metalanguage
For you to exemplify ULO-b, you will need to have an operational understanding of the
following terms below. You will encounter these terms as you go through this topic. Please
refer to these definitions in case you encounter difficulty in understanding some concepts.
Mechanics include the rules on the correct usage of punctuation marks, correct
spelling of words, and appropriate capitalization of words.
Subject-Verb Agreement refers to the agreement of the subject of the sentence and
the verb used. This is to make sure that the number of subject agrees with the verb.
Essential Knowledge
To perform the aforesaid unit learning outcome, you need to fully understand
the following essential knowledge that will be laid down in the succeeding pages.
Subject-Verb Agreement
A verb should always match its subject in number. If the subject is singular, the verb
should also have a singular form. If the subject is plural, the verb should also have a
plural form.
Examples presented below are common situations that often lead to problems
with subject-verb agreement. To easily resolve the problem, the verb’s subject must
be determined first and make sure that its verb agrees with it. These examples are
taken from Naadell, Langan, and Comodromos (2009).
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1. When there are two or more subjects: When the word and joins two or more
subjects in a sentence, use a plural verb.
Correct: A strong quake and an unexpected storm hit the city.
However, when the word or joins the subjects, use a singular verb.
Correct: A strong quake or an unexpected storm hits the city.
2. When the subject and verb are separated by a prepositional phrase: Be sure to
match the verb to its subject- not to a word in a prepositional phrase that comes
between the subject and the verb.
Correct:
One of the students was there during the celebration.
To pass the subject, the student representative from all sections needs to submit his
report.
Correct:
Neither the students nor the professor attends the meeting.
Neither the professor nor the students attend the meeting.
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Correct:
Neither of the libraries was open.
Neither library was open.
Other indefinite pronouns (such as all, any, most, none, and some) take a singular or
a plural verb, depending on whether they refer to one thing or a number of things. In
the following sentences, some refers to a single session, so the verb is singular.
Correct: The student reported that only some of her tutoring session was helpful.
In the next sentence, however, some refers to multiple sessions, so the verb is plural.
Correct: The student reported that only some of her tutoring sessions were helpful.
5. When there is a group subject: When the subject of a sentence refers to a group
acting in unison, or as a unit, use a singular verb.
However, when a subject is a group whose members are acting individually, rather
than as a unit, use a plural verb.
If in this case, the plural verb sounds awkward, reword the sentence so that the
group’s individual members are referred to directly:
6. When the verb comes before the subject: Words such as here, there, how, what,
when, where, which, who, and why, as well as prepositional phrases, are apt to invert
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normal sentence order, causing the verb to precede the subject. In such cases, look
ahead for the subject and make sure it and the verb agree in number.
Correct:
There is always a long line of students at the library.
What are the reasons for the consumers’ complaints?
Near the guardhouse, looking for us everywhere, were our parents.
Self-Help: You can also refer to the sources below to help you further understand the lesson:
1. Aquino, F., Callang, C., Bas, H., & Capili, C. (2010). Business English & correspondence.
Mandaluyong City: National Book Store.
2. Gerson, S. & Gerson, S. (2012). Technical communication: Process and product. United
States: Pearson Education. E-book Access: https://web.uettaxila.edu.pk/CMS/UG/CK-MCT-
125/notes/TRW-%207th%20edition.pdf
3. Nadell, J., Langan, J., & Comodromos, E. (2009). The Longman writer: Rhetoric, reader,
research guide, and handbook. United States: Pearson Education.
Let’s Check
Revise the Sentences
1. There is many secretaries who do their bosses’ jobs, as well as their own.
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2. At the back of the closet, behind all the clothes, are some old pictures.
___________________________________________________________________________
3. Each of the children wear a name tag when the play group takes a field trip.
___________________________________________________________________________
4. In the garage, leaning against the back wall, are a rusty equipment and a broken
bicycle.
___________________________________________________________________________
5. Neither the sales representative nor the customers were happy with the price
increase, which is scheduled to go into effect next month.
___________________________________________________________________________
6. The human spinal column, with its circular discs, resemble a stack of wobbly poker
chips.
___________________________________________________________________________
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___________________________________________________________________________
8. Nobody in the two classes think that the exam, which lasted three hours, was fair.
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
10. The guidelines issued by the supervisor states that personal calls made during the
business day violate company policy.
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Let’s Analyze
Reflect and Write
Correct use of the English language is important in technical writing. Create a two-paragraph
essay elaborating your thoughts on the importance of knowing the grammatical rules of the
English language. In writing your essay, make sure that you follow the grammatical rules
discussed. In writing your essay, please consider the following criteria:
Content/Substance- 10 points
Grammar and Mechanics 10 points
Total 20 points
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In a Nutshell
Based on the topic discussions that we had about the importance of the English language in
technical writing, write your insights or reflections about the usefulness of the English
language in technical writing. Limit your insights on how purposeful the English language
and its grammar is in technical writing.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Q&A List
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Questions/Issues Answers
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Keywords Index
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Metalanguage
In this section, the important terms to demonstrate ULO-c are operationally defined
to establish a common frame of reference as regards the concepts introduced herein.
You will encounter these terms as we go through the study. Please refer to these definitions
in case you will encounter difficulty in understanding some of these concepts or the topic at
hand.
Criteria include the things that need to be considered when creating the conclusion
and recommendations for a feasibility report.
Essential Knowledge
To perform the aforesaid big picture (unit learning outcomes) for the three (3)
weeks of the course, you need to fully understand the following essential knowledge
that will be laid down in the succeeding pages. Please note that you are not limited
to exclusively refer to these resources. Thus, you are expected to utilize other books,
research articles and other resources that are available in the university’s library e.g.
ebrary, search.proquest.com etc.
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recommend changes.
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A good way for a company to find out whether a project is viable or not is through the
conduct of a feasibility report. Writing a feasibility report allows documentation of the
findings. Gerson and Gerson (2012) suggest the following components of an effective
feasibility report:
Criteria. State the criteria upon which your recommendation will be based.
Criteria are established so you have a logical foundation for comparison of
personnel, products, vendors, costs, options, schedules, and so on.
Analysis. In this section, compare your findings against the criteria. In
objectively written paragraphs, develop the points being considered. You might
want to use a visual aid such as a table to organize the criteria and provide easy
access.
3. Conclusion/Recommendations
Conclusion. In this section, state the significance of your findings. Conclude what
you have found in your study.
Recommendations. Once you have drawn your conclusions, the next step is to
recommend a course of action. What do you suggest that your company do next?
Which piece of equipment should be purchased? Where should the company locate
its expansion? Is there a sufficient market for the product?
Presented in the next pages is the sample of a feasibility report lifted from
Gerson and Gerson (2012).
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Source: Gerson, S. & Gerson, S. (2012). Technical communication: Process and product.
United States: Pearson Education.
Self-Help: You can also refer to the sources below to help you further understand the lesson:
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1. Aquino, F., Callang, C., Bas, H., & Capili, C. (2010). Business English & correspondence.
Mandaluyong City: National Book Store.
2. Gerson, S. & Gerson, S. (2012). Technical communication: Process and product. United
States: Pearson Education. E-book Access: https://web.uettaxila.edu.pk/CMS/UG/CK-MCT-
125/notes/TRW-%207th%20edition.pdf
3. Nadell, J., Langan, J., & Comodromos, E. (2009). The Longman writer: Rhetoric, reader,
research guide, and handbook. United States: Pearson Education.
Let’s Check
True or False. Write T if the statement is correct and F if it is incorrect.
________ 1. In writing a feasibility report, the conclusion must be based solely on the
feedback of interviewed respondents.
_________ 2. It is not important to keep proper documentation of all personnel who will be
involved in the project implementation.
_________ 3. Before deciding to write a feasibility report, know the root problem so as to
know what to address.
__________ 10. The findings of your data gathering play an important role in establishing
the conclusion and the recommendations of your feasibility report.
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Let’s Analyze
Let’s Apply. Identify one major problem existing in your school. Examine this problem and
create a simplified feasibility report about this. Expected contents of your report are the
following:
1. Introduction (Background of the Problem)
2. Discussion (Analysis of the Problem)
3. Conclusion (Summary of Analysis, Recommendations)
Please cite references that could strengthen your background of the problem, analyses, and
recommendations.
Criteria:
Comprehensiveness- 20 pts.
Recommendations- 10 pts.
Accuracy - 5 pts.
Language Use - 5 pts.
Total - 40 pts.
In a Nutshell
Reflect and Write. Create a one-paragraph reflection on the importance of feasibility
reports. Share your insights about the things you learned about feasibility reports in general.
Please observe the grammatical and mechanical rules in writing.
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
Q&A List
Do you have any questions for clarification?
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Questions/Issues Answers
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Keywords Index
Big Picture
Weeks 7-9: Unit Learning Outcomes:
Metalanguage
In this section, the most essential terms relevant to the study of GE 14 (Technical
Writing) and to demonstrate ULO-a are operationally defined to establish a common
frame of reference as regards the concepts introduced herein. You will encounter these
terms as we go through the study. Please refer to these definitions in case you will
encounter difficulty in understanding some of these concepts or the topic at hand.
Internal Proposal is a type of proposal which is used to convey ideas to the upper-
level management.
Essential Knowledge
To perform the aforesaid big picture (unit learning outcomes) for the three (3)
weeks of the course, you need to fully understand the following essential knowledge
that will be laid down in the succeeding pages. Please note that you are not limited
to exclusively refer to these resources. Thus, you are expected to utilize other books,
research articles and other resources that are available in the university’s library e.g.
ebrary, search.proquest.com etc.
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Gerson and Gerson (2012) maintain that your goal in writing a proposal is to sell an
idea persuasively. Generally, proposals could be classified into two: (1) internal proposals
and (2) external proposals.
Internal Proposal. This is used to convey ideas to upper-level management. The topic
is large and will require extensive financial obligations, time for planning, and a commitment
to new staffing. A short, informal report will not suffice. In contrast, you will have to write a
type of longer, formal report- an internal proposal for your company’s management.
Format
To guide your readers through a proposal, Gerson and Gerson (2012) suggest the
following contents of a proposal:
o Title page
o Cover letter
o Table of contents
o List of illustrations
o Abstract
o Introduction
o Discussion (the body of the proposal)
o Conclusion/recommendation
o Glossary
o Works cited (or references) page
o Appendix
Abstract. Readers do not have all the luxury of time to read everything in your
proposal. They need information quickly, and they need it presented in low-tech
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Introduction. Your introduction should include two primary sections: (1) purpose
and (2) problem. For the purpose, in one to three sentences, tell your readers the
purpose of your proposal. Your purpose statement clarifies the proposal’s context. For
the problem (needs analysis), it is a must to have the importance of the proposal
clarified.
Discussion. When writing the text for your proposal, sell your ideas persuasively,
develop your ideas thoroughly through research, observe ethical, technical
communication standards, organize your content so the audience can follow your
thoughts easily, and use graphics.
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Self-Help: You can also refer to the sources below to help you further understand the
lesson.
1. Aquino, F., Callang, C., Bas, H., & Capili, C. (2010). Business English & correspondence.
Mandaluyong City: National Book Store.
2. Gerson, S. & Gerson, S. (2012). Technical communication: Process and product. United
States: Pearson Education. E-book Access: https://web.uettaxila.edu.pk/CMS/UG/CK-MCT-
125/notes/TRW-%207th%20edition.pdf
3. Nadell, J., Langan, J., & Comodromos, E. (2009). The Longman writer: Rhetoric, reader,
research guide, and handbook. United States: Pearson Education.
Let’s Check
Instruction: Identify the part of the proposal being referred to in each item. Write the
complete name for the part.
1. This refers to the introductory letter for the recipient of your proposal.
2. This part contains a summary of the contents and the pages where you can find each of the
contents/sections.
7. This segment of your proposal is composed of the suggested solutions for the problem.
8. This is a list of all terms used in your document and their corresponding location in your proposal.
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Let’s Analyze
Proposal Writing
Instructions:
a. Think of an innovative product or service that you would like to introduce to a big
company. This product must be original. For the company to consider your product, a great
proposal needs to be written.
I. Title Page
III. Discussion (In this section, present the product or service you are proposing.
You may use figures or images to supplement your descriptive discussion.)
c. Mechanics: 1-5 pages only, Arial, 12, 2.0 spacing, default margin settings, A4-sized
Completeness- 10 points
Total- 50 points
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In a Nutshell
Instruction: Answer the following questions comprehensively. Please consider the criteria
presented below.
Content- 5 points
Language Use- 5 points
Total- 10 points
1. Why is there a necessity to write proposals in the corporate world? How can they become
so functional?
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
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Q&A List
Do you have any questions for clarification?
Questions/Issues Answers
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Keywords Index
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Metalanguage
For you to exemplify ULO-b, you will need to have an operational understanding of the
following terms below. You will encounter these terms as you go through this topic. Please
refer to this definition in case you encounter difficulty in understanding some concepts.
Essential Knowledge
To perform the aforesaid unit learning outcome, you need to fully understand
the following essential knowledge that will be laid down in the succeeding pages.
Biomedical technology. You and your team are developing a new heart monitor. This
entails researching, patenting, building, testing, and marketing. You have been working on
this project for months. What is your status? A progress report will tell your investors and
supervisors where you stand if you are on schedule, and when the project will conclude.
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Personnel. With whom are you working on this project (i.e., work team, liaison,
contacts)?
Previous Activity. If this is the second, third, or fourth report in a series, remind
your readers what work has already been accomplished. Bring them up to date
with background data or a reference to previous reports.
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3. Conclusion/Recommendations
Conclusion. Sum up what you’ve achieved during this reporting period and provide
your target completion date.
Recommendations. If problems were presented in the discussion, you could
recommend changes in scheduling, personnel, budget, or materials that will help you
meet your deadlines.
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Source: Gerson, S. & Gerson, S. (2012). Technical communication: Process and product. United
States: Pearson Education.
Self-Help: You can also refer to the sources below to help you further understand the lesson:
1. Aquino, F., Callang, C., Bas, H., & Capili, C. (2010). Business English & correspondence.
Mandaluyong City: National Book Store.
2. Gerson, S. & Gerson, S. (2012). Technical communication: Process and product. United
States: Pearson Education. E-book Access: https://web.uettaxila.edu.pk/CMS/UG/CK-MCT-
125/notes/TRW-%207th%20edition.pdf
3. Nadell, J., Langan, J., & Comodromos, E. (2009). The Longman writer: Rhetoric, reader,
research guide, and handbook. United States: Pearson Education.
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Let’s Check
Instruction: Provide a comprehensive discussion on the role or function of each of the
proposal sections indicated below. Explain the purpose of each section in a proposal.
1. Introduction
_________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________
2. Discussion
___________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________
3. Conclusion
___________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________
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Let’s Analyze
Progress Report Writing
Using the template discussed in class, create a simple progress report of the current GE 14
summer class that you have. Consider all aspects of the class and include them wherever it
is appropriate to incorporate them into the sections of a proposal. In writing your progress
report, please consider the following criteria
Content/Substance- 10 points
Completeness- 10 points
Grammar and Mechanics 10 points
Total 30 points
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In a Nutshell
Identify five important things that must be given emphasis when writing a progress report.
For each, please provide a brief discussion.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Q&A List
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Questions/Issues Answers
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Keywords Index
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Metalanguage
In this section, the important terms to demonstrate ULO-c are operationally defined
to establish a common frame of reference as regards the concepts introduced herein.
You will encounter these terms as we go through the study. Please refer to these definitions
in case you will encounter difficulty in understanding some of these concepts or the topic at
hand.
Letter of Inquiry is a form of technical document which allows the letter sender to
include questions or points of clarification about the products or services offered by
a company.
Resumé is an important technical document for people applying for a job. This
contains one’s important records, which include job history, educational attainment,
and other lists on related training.
Essential Knowledge
To perform the aforesaid big picture (unit learning outcomes) for the three (3)
weeks of the course, you need to fully understand the following essential knowledge
that will be laid down in the succeeding pages. Please note that you are not limited
to exclusively refer to these resources. Thus, you are expected to utilize other books,
research articles and other resources that are available in the university’s library e.g.
ebrary, search.proquest.com etc.
Sample: Application Letter
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Source: Gerson, S. & Gerson, S. (2012). Technical communication: Process and product. United
States: Pearson Education.
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Source: Gerson, S. & Gerson, S. (2012). Technical communication: Process and product. United
States: Pearson Education.
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Source: Gerson, S. & Gerson, S. (2012). Technical communication: Process and product.
United States: Pearson Education.
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Source: Gerson, S. & Gerson, S. (2012). Technical communication: Process and product. United States:
Pearson Education.
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Source: Gerson, S. & Gerson, S. (2012). Technical communication: Process and product. United States:
Pearson Education.
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Source: Gerson, S. & Gerson, S. (2012). Technical communication: Process and product. United States:
Pearson Education.
Self-Help: You can also refer to the sources below to help you further understand the lesson:
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1. Aquino, F., Callang, C., Bas, H., & Capili, C. (2010). Business English & correspondence.
Mandaluyong City: National Book Store.
2. Gerson, S. & Gerson, S. (2012). Technical communication: Process and product. United
States: Pearson Education. E-book Access: https://web.uettaxila.edu.pk/CMS/UG/CK-MCT-
125/notes/TRW-%207th%20edition.pdf
3. Nadell, J., Langan, J., & Comodromos, E. (2009). The Longman writer: Rhetoric, reader,
research guide, and handbook. United States: Pearson Education.
Let’s Check
Instruction: Create your application letter and resumé for an open position in a company.
Your teacher will give you the details for the recipient of your application letter. Criteria for
scoring are as follows:
Application Letter
Content/ Substance of Letter- 15 points
Language Use - 5 points
Format - 5 points
Total - 25 points
Resumé
Presentation of Details - 10 points
Completeness - 10 points
Language Use - 5 points
Total - 25 points
Let’s Analyze
Instruction: Please provide the function of each identified technical document. Provide a
brief discussion as to the very purpose of each document.
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2. Resumé:
__________________________________________________________________
4. Sales Letter:
_______________________________________________________________
In a Nutshell
Reflect and Write. Create a one-paragraph reflection on the importance of technical
documents. Share your insights about the things you learned in this class. Please observe
the grammatical and mechanical rules in writing.
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
Q&A List
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Questions/Issues Answers
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Keywords Index
(1) All teachers/course facilitators and students are expected to abide by an honor code
of conduct, and thus everyone and all is exhorted to exercise self-management and
self-regulation.
(2) All students are guided by professional conduct as learners in attending OBD
courses. Any breach and violation shall be dealt with properly under existing
guidelines, specifically in Section 7 (Student Discipline) in the Student Handbook.
(3) Professional conduct refers to the embodiment and exercise of the University’s Core
Values, specifically in the adherence to intellectual honesty and integrity; academic
excellence by giving due diligence in virtual class participation in all lectures and
activities, as well as fidelity in doing and submitting performance tasks and
assignments; personal discipline in complying with all deadlines; and observance of
data privacy.
(4) Plagiarism is a serious intellectual crime and shall be dealt with accordingly. The
University shall institute monitoring mechanisms online to detect and penalize
plagiarism.
(5) Students shall independently and honestly take examinations and do assignments
unless collaboration is clearly required or permitted. Students shall not resort to
dishonesty to improve the result of their assessments (e.g., examinations,
assignments).
(6) Students shall not allow anyone else to access their personal LMS account. Students
shall not post or share their answers, assignment, or examinations to others to
further academic fraudulence online.
(7) By enrolling in OBD or DED courses, students agree and abide by all the provisions of
the Online Code of Conduct, as well as all the requirements and protocols in
handling online courses.
Prepared by:
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Reviewed by:
Approved by:
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