Chapter 1 & 2 Review

Personal Reaction: The main component that stuck out to us in chapter one was the different characteristics and expectations that are expected to effectively reach your target audience. In Chapter two we found the reading for a purpose portion to be very important. Collectively, our group often reads just to read, but having different strategies from the "preparing to read" paragraph will help us comprehend the reading the first time so we don't have to re-read the information over and over. We learned different techniques regarding reading, but for the most part, we were familiar with the content. There was nothing in this reading that angered us, but we all agreed that we wish we knew the tactics expressed in high school. 

Professional Reaction: In The Bedford Guide for College Writers, the first and second chapter introduce concepts regarding the writing process and the reading process. For the writing process, it explains three critical steps in creating an effective paper. The three steps expressed are Planning, Drafting, and Developing. After completing these steps, one must continue on to the Revising and Editing portion of the writing process. Even though the two may seem similar, there are many differences between revising and editing. Revising consists of reviewing the purpose, structure, audience, thesis, support, and the language. While the editing component explores word choice, punctuation, grammar, mechanics, and the format of the paper. After both revising and editing are complete, you must proofread the paper. Proofreading consists of finding spelling errors, incorrect words, minor details, minor errors, and missing words.Within these processes, one must also take into context the way they're presenting their information in regards to the purpose of the end paper, along with the audience they're targeting. There are four different audience characterizations: the general audience, the college instructor, the work supervisor, and a campus friend. Each audience has a unique tone, format, language, style, and amount of detail. The second chapter explains the reading process for college writers. In order to be a critical reader, one must prepare, respond as they read, and read on an analytical and literal level. To prepare, first identify the purpose, gain background information, skim the text, and plan a follow up. To respond, the reader must read deeply, annotate, and keep a journal. An analytical reader evaluates, synthesizes, and analyzes the information, while a literal reader applies, comprehends, and recalls the information they’ve read. A exceptional reader is able to incorporate both of these concepts into their everyday reads. 

Photo from: http://jkullrich.com/2015/02/05/bleeding-pages-the-strange-dichotomy-of-revision/

Emily LeMasters, Clayton Peppler and Elizabeth Victorio