Chris Martin In-Class 1

1. Q: How is "Reading like a Writer" similar and/or different from the way(s) you read for other classes?
One of the major differences between reading like a writer and the way I’ve read previously is the importance of rereading material. In other classes I used the skim method often to locate a central point or idea. A definite other difference is the specific label of genre, in other classes, we were somewhat allowed to drift between different types of writing. Some similarities RLW carries with the way I’ve read before relates to editing papers or reading comprehension sections on tests. Those methods as well as RLW involve rereading and perusing for central arguments in a body of work. And though I haven’t done it so often, the analysis of the paper mimics RLW.

2. Q: What kinds of choices do you make as a writer that readers might identify in your written work?
Personally, my use of amplified voice and word choice coins my writings. I use those techniques to identify my point, as well as distinguish myself as a writer. Another aspect of my writings is the use of basic quantitative textual based research. I feel as though this bolsters my paper, and exemplifies that I know the numbers surrounding the topic. And finally, a reader may notice my attempts to connect the ideas mentioned in the beginning of the paper to the end.

3. Q: Is there anything you notice in this essay that you might like to try in your own writing? What is that technique or strategy? When do you plan to try using it?
A definite idea I’d use in my writing is the increased focus on audience. The idea behind it is being knowledgeable of whom you are speaking to, and to know at what level is best to convey your point. I believe this is exceptionally useful when giving speeches or presentations. Instead of speaking above or below an audience’s level, this technique allows you to include or involve every audience member.

4. Q: What are some of the different things that you can learn about the context of a text before you begin reading it?
There are many techniques that are useful before you actually read an article to provide context to how it was written. You could ask yourself about the intended audience, the genre, or the purpose of the paper to gain clues as to the context of the paper. These questions help to shed light onto what how the paper was actually constructed, therefore allowing you to understand it even better.