Assignment 4

Chapter 5

Q1. Writing: Communicating with Sensitivity and Tact: Substitute a better phrase for each
of the following: (Each part is of 0.5 marks)
5-16. You claim that: You mentioned that
5-17. It is not our policy to: Our current practice is to
5-18. You neglected to: It seems that you may have overlooked
5-19. In which you assert: Where you express
5-20. We are sorry you are dissatisfied:
We appreciate your feedback and understand your concerns
Q2. Writing: Demonstrating the “You” Attitude: Rewrite these sentences to reflect your
audience’s viewpoint: (Each part is of 0.5 marks)
5-26. Your email order cannot be processed; we request that you use the order form on our
website instead.
To ensure your order is processed smoothly, please use the order form available on our website.
5-27. We insist that you always bring your credit card to the store.
For a seamless shopping experience, please remember to bring your credit card when visiting our
store.
5-28. We want to get rid of all our 15-inch LCD screens to make room in our warehouse for
the new 19-, 23-, and 35-inch monitors. Thus, we are offering a 25 percent discount on all
sales of 15-inch models this week.
Enjoy a 25% discount on all 15-inch LCD screens this week as we make space for our exciting
new range of monitors!
5-29. I am applying for the position of accounting intern in your office. I feel my grades
prove that I am bright and capable, and I think I can do a good job for you.
I am excited to apply for the accounting intern position in your office, as my academic
achievements reflect my dedication and capability to contribute positively to your team.
5-30. As requested, we are sending the refund for $25.
As per your request, we are pleased to process your $25 refund.
Q3. Writing: Emphasizing the Positive: Revise the following sentences to be positive rather
than negative: (Each part is of 0.5 marks)
5-36. You have not filled in every section of the questionnaire we sent you.
It would be helpful if you could complete all sections of the questionnaire we sent you.
5-37. It’s clear that you have not understood the question.
Let’s clarify the question so that it’s easier to address
5-38. It is very obvious that you are doing everything you can to avoid your responsibility
for refunding all my costs.
I appreciate your efforts; let’s find a way to resolve the refund process together.
5-40. You must understand that by using the mower without reading the instructions
carefully means that you are very likely to damage the mower or possible cause injury to
yourself through incorrect operation.
To ensure safe operation and maintain your mower's condition, please take a moment to read the
instructions carefully before use.
Q4. Writing: Using Unbiased Language: Rewrite each of the following to eliminate bias:
(Each part is of 0.5 marks)
5-41. For an Indian, Maggie certainly is outgoing.
Maggie certainly is outgoing.
5-42. He needs a wheelchair, but he doesn’t let his handicap affect his job performance.
He uses a wheelchair but continues to excel in his job performance.
5-43. A pilot must have the ability to stay calm under pressure, and then he must be trained
to cope with any problem that arises.
A pilot must have the ability to stay calm under pressure and be trained to handle any problems
that arise.
Q5. Writing: Choosing Powerful Words: Write a concrete phrase for each of these vague
phrases: (Each part is of 0.5 marks)
5-49. Sometime this spring: In April
5-50. A substantial savings: A savings of Rs 200
5-51. A large number attended: Over 500 people attended
Q6. Writing: Choosing Powerful Words: Suggest short, simple words to replace each of the
following: (Each part is of 0.5 marks)
5-65. Inaugurate: Start
5-66. Terminate: End
5-67. Utilize: Use
5-68. Anticipate: Expect
5-69. Assistance: help
Q7. Critique the Professionals (7.5 marks)
Locate an example of professional communication from a reputable online source. Choose
a paragraph that has at least three sentences. Evaluate the effectiveness of this paragraph
at three levels, starting with the paragraph structure. Is the paragraph unified and
cohesive? Does it have a clear topic sentence and sufficient support to clarify and expand
on that topic? Second, evaluate each sentence. Are the sentences easy to read and easy to
understand? Did the writer vary the types and lengths of sentences to produce a smooth
flow and rhythm? Is the most important idea presented prominently in each sentence?
Third, evaluate at least six word choices. Did the writer use these words correctly and
effectively? Using whatever medium your instructor requests, write a brief analysis of the
piece (no more than one page), citing specific elements from the piece and support from the
chapter.
Make sure to attach the screenshot of the paragraph chosen and do site the source as well.
To critique an example of professional communication, I selected a paragraph from the article
titled "4 Tips to Practice Effective Professional Communication" on Practice. The paragraph
reads:
"Good communication skills are fundamental to a positive work environment, but writing 'Kind
Regards' at the end of emails isn’t enough. Effective professional communication extends past
common courtesy and involves active listening, clarity in messaging, and understanding the
audience's needs. By focusing on these aspects, professionals can foster better relationships and
enhance collaboration within their teams." ( (4 Tips to Practice Effective, Professional
Communication, 2022).
Evaluation of Effectiveness
Paragraph Structure
The paragraph is unified and cohesive, with a clear topic sentence that establishes the importance
of good communication skills in a work environment. The subsequent sentences provide
sufficient support by elaborating on what constitutes effective professional communication. Each
sentence logically follows the previous one, creating a smooth flow that enhances understanding.
Sentence Evaluation
Each sentence is easy to read and understand. The writer employs a mix of sentence lengths,
which contributes to a rhythmic flow. For example, the first sentence is straightforward, while
the second sentence introduces more complex ideas without becoming convoluted. The most
important ideas—active listening, clarity, and understanding the audience—are presented
prominently, ensuring that readers grasp the key components of effective communication.
Word Choices
1. Fundamental: Used effectively to convey the essential nature of communication skills.
2. Common courtesy: This phrase clearly identifies a baseline expectation in professional
interactions.
3. Active listening: A precise term that highlights a critical skill in effective
communication.
4. Clarity: This word is impactful as it emphasizes the need for straightforwardness in
messaging.
5. Understanding: This term effectively conveys the importance of empathy in
communication.
6. Foster: A strong verb that suggests nurturing relationships rather than merely
maintaining them.
Overall, the word choices are appropriate and enhance the clarity and effectiveness of the
message.
Conclusion
The paragraph effectively communicates its message about professional communication by being
well-structured, employing clear and varied sentences, and using precise word choices. By
focusing on key elements such as active listening and clarity, it provides actionable insights for
improving workplace communication