NORTHWEST RANKIN HIGH SCHOOL
TECHNICAL WRITING
COURSE OUTLINE
The Technical and Workplace Writing course is the writing component of the Senior Project at Northwest Rankin High School and challenges the student to examine the variety of kinds of written communication currently occurring in a variety of workplaces and careers. In this course, students examine actual examples of written materials produced tocommunicate within the workplace as well as outside the workplace for the customer and general public. Through reviewing examples and through instruction, students will gain a sense of general principles of communication, learn how audience and purpose shape the form and content of the written piece, and discern how organization, wording, accuracy and specificity of details, , grammar, usage, and mechanics contribute to effective communication. Students will apply what they have learned by creating a variety of kinds of written communication. Since conveying information is at the heart of much of workplace and technical writing, students will practice gathering information through research as well as communicate information through various kinds of writing.
As a key component of the senior project at Northwest Rankin, the Technical Writing course also emphasizes time management, responsibility, and problem solving skills.
1. Determine the kinds and purposes of
writing used in different careers and
workplaces.
2. Identify principles of communication,
including factors that help or hinder
clear communication.
3. Analyze what is effective and what is not
in different kinds of writing, such as
business letters, reports, memos, brochures,
etc.
4. Communicate thoughts, ideas, information,
and messages in writing.
5. Gather and use information as part of
research conducted in completing a piece of writing.
6. Produce effective business letters,
reports, memos, a resumé, and either a brochure or newsletter.
7. Understand the dynamics of producing
written communication when working
with or for others.
III. Course Procedures
All Technical Writing students will be required to complete the senior project component.
§ Bell Ringers – Each class period will start with a bell ringer which will count as class work.
§ Daily Class Work and Homework – Grades may be taken each day on material that is covered in class.
§ Tests, writing assignments, and quizzes – Tests will be divided up by units and will include a variety of questions and question format. Various technical writing assignments, including letters, resumes, and proposals will be assigned. Quizzes will be given as well. Semester exams will be given and will count 20% as indicated in the RCSD Student Handbook.
§ Projects and Presentations – Each student will be assigned a variety of projects throughout the year. Some will be completed individually, while others will be done within a group. Each student will be assigned at least one oral presentation per nine weeks. The presentation itself will be graded according to the rubric used for Senior Project. The final Senior Project presentation is a defense of the student’s research and product before a committee consisting of an expert, a member of the community, a faculty member, and an administrator.
V. Assessment Plan
Grades will be determined using a point system. Homework, some class work, and minor quizzes will carry a smaller point value than major tests, oral presentations, writing assignments, projects, and portfolios. Students’ averages are determined by dividing points earned by total possible points for the term. The total points earned by the end of the term counts 80%, and the exam counts 20%.
In addition, the following will help you determine how that work will be graded:
|
Grade |
Scale |
Description
of Work |
|
A |
90-100
|
Consistently
demonstrates and exceptional level of quality and effort. Having all work in on time and completed
to exceed expectations. Mastery in
evaluating, synthesizing, and applying the principles of Technical Writing |
|
B |
80-89 |
Consistently
demonstrates proficient knowledge with a good effort and quality of
work. All assignments are complete
and on time. Demonstrates the ability
to evaluate, analyze, synthesize, and apply the principles of Technical
Writing |
|
C |
70-79
|
Demonstrates
proficient knowledge and the ability to apply and analyze Technical Writing
principles. Work shows average
effort. A few assignments may be
missed or late. |
|
D |
60-69 |
Work
shows minimal effort and some assignments are late. Demonstrates a basic understanding of recalling or
comprehending the principles of Technical Writing |
|
F |
Below 60
|
Understanding is below basic in relation to the principles of Technical Writing. Work is of poor quality and does not meet standards or expectations. |
Teachers are available each morning before school and after school each day to help you with any problems you may be having in this course. Free tutors are also available from organizations such as National Honor Society, Mu Alpha Theta, and Beta Club. Teachers will have a copy of this information should you be interested.