English 1123

Spring 2005

Chapter 9: Proposing Solutions

ASSIGNMENT: Discover a problem, present possible alternatives for solving the problem, and argue for the best solution, using workplace format.

Specific Criteria:

• Establish the existence of a problem
• Clearly define the problem by thoroughly analyzing it
• Formulate criteria for evaluating alternatives
• Present alternatives to the problem
• Evaluate alternatives
• Propose the best solution as a recommended action

Reading, Responding and Journaling Assignments:

Read “Technology, Movement, and Sound” 438-439

JE # 1 -- Respond to questions 1-3 under Exploring Ideas and questions 1-3 under Writing Strategies 440

JE # 2-- Choose either 1 or 2 from Ideas for Writing or a topic from Point of Contact questions and write a 1 to 2 page entry discussing the problem and its possible solutions

Read “How to Say Nothing in 500 Words” 431-436

Annotate this essay following the instruction of the last sentence of the introductory information on page 431.

JE # 3 – Respond to the question in the last sentence of the introductory material on page 431 and to questions 1, 3, 4 and 5 under Exploring Ideas, and question 2 and 5 under Writing Strategies, page 437

JE # 4 – Select a problem from Point of Contact, 451 or a problem your instructor approves, and write a one to two page discussion of that problem ad its possible solutions

JE # 5 – Choose one of the problems from assignment 2 or 4 above, or another of your choice and develop it into a step by step proposal plan following the sample below:

Memo Style:

TO:

FROM:

DATE:

SUBJECT:

PROBLEM: This must be stated in a complete sentence. It will serve as your thesis.

ANALYSIS OF PROBLEM: Paragraph form

CRITERIA: Standards by which you will judge the effectiveness of the alternatives (list)

ALTERNATIVES: A list

EVALUATION: Paragraph form

RECOMMENDED ACTION: Paragraph form

The use of graphics is strongly encouraged