Technical Writing I: HW Assignment

This was my first homework assignment for my Technical Writing I class. Students had to define technical communication, along with evaluating a flyer that was handed out in class. This assignment was to exercise our critical thinking, writing, and organization skills. 

To: Dr. Cella

From: Kayla Morales

Date: September 1, 2016

Re: Definition of Technical Communication and Summer Lunch Flyer

The definition of technical communication is the process of conveying information efficiently and effectively, which encompasses reading, writing as well as listening skills. Technical communication also consists of important characteristics and style. The characteristics include knowing what particular audience to address, assist readers in problem solving, expose the objectives and philosophy of the organization, gain insight and information from outside sources, using a professional design and format, and to collaborate with both pictures and words. Also, there are eight measures of excellence in technical writing that include honesty, clarity, accuracy, comprehensiveness, brevity, accessibility, professional appearance, and grammar correctness.

As introduced in class, the Shippensburg Summer Lunch Program flyer was designed to bring awareness to the Shippensburg community about this program that is being offered to children for ages five through eighteen. Although, the flyer does give general information about the program and is professionally well done, there are a few adjustments that should be made to make it more comprehensive.

1.     The flyer does a good job in incorporating pictures, but it does a poor job in including healthy foods. Instead of including a hotdog, the flyer should try to include more fruits and veggies in order to reassure the community that the program is not promoting and serving an unhealthy diet to children. This makes honesty important in a flyer.

2.     Also, what makes this flyer appealing is the choice of vivid colors that is used. This makes the flyer stand out and has the potential in catching the community’s attention while exhibiting a professional and appropriate appearance. 

3.     There is a lack of important information, such as the other activities, the goals of the program and what it has to offer to the children in the Shippensburg community.

4.     The flyer does include the location and dates of the program’s availability that is written in a big and bold font, thus making it accessible, but it lacks contact information. Even though the flyer includes the website address, it does not include the program’s phone number and email address in case the community has any concerns or questions they want to ask. Also, the website is located at the bottom of the flyer and is typed in a small font, which makes it hard for people to see it.

5.     Clarity is very important, parents and the Shippensburg community may believe that the program is affiliated with the town’s local church, due to its location. By adding and including the word “camp” may clarify that the program is a summer camp offered to Shippensburg’s youth for the season.

 I have defined technical communication as well as discussed its characteristics and the eight measures of excellence. In addition, I also went over what needs to be changed and improved on the Shippensburg Lunch Program flyer.