Over one hundred short examples demonstrate writing concepts and strategies throughout the instructional chapters so that information is introduced and followed by a real-world example of the concept in practice. These short, often paragraph-length examples generate immediate “a-ha” moments and better enable students to recognize writers’ strategies in longer, full-length readings.
Each rhetorical modes chapter has a parallel and predictable structure, opening with a discussion of rhetorical purpose, an investigation of key elements commonly considered to define that mode, and an examination of ethical considerations before then walking students step-by-step through the writing process.
An emphasis incorporating outside sources into writing prepares students to succeed on assignments throughout their college courses. Each modes-based chapter closes with a “Stepping up to Synthesis” instructional section with ideas and guidance for incorporating sources as well as several Suggestions for Writing to help students practice critical academic thinking and writing skills.
Copious exercises and discussion questions appear throughout the book, and longer writing assignments are placed at the ends of the chapters.
Flow Charts offer at-a-glance instruction through the writing process for each rhetorical mode and include suggestions and reminders that summarize chapter content for easy reference.
Full length readings that model strategies in practice include one student sample in each rhetorical mode chapter as well as an professional readings anthologized at the end of the book so that if instructors assign only a few, students aren’t skipping around content as they work through the main rhetorical modes instructional chapter.
The Handbook offers a refresher on grammar, style, mechanics, and punctuation and contains exercises for these concepts. Also included is a list of commonly misspelled words and a usage glossary.
A unique chapter on business letters and resumes is available online in the Pearson e-Text and contains fourteen case-based writing scenarios for those instructors who include business writing.
The Ebook offers increased flexibility for students who prefer to study online.
