Definition: The First Step in the Thinking/Writing Process

Richard T. Brucher

doi:10.2190/c8ax-2qu0-ld0j-ucpr

Journal of Technical Writing and Communication Jul 1980

Definition: The First Step in the Thinking/Writing Process

Richard T. Brucher

Abstract

Practicing the forms of definitions may not produce writing that satisfies the informational needs of readers. This paper discusses definition as a method for engaging students in the process by which thinking and writing test and clarify one another. By first saying all he can about the theoretical and practical meaning of a term, the student can analyze his writing to discover the significances the term has for different readers and the rhetorical devices that best express the meanings. The writer then can compose a series of redefinitions of the term for different readers according to their needs.

Journal: Journal of Technical Writing and Communication
Published: 1980-07-01
DOI: 10.2190/c8ax-2qu0-ld0j-ucpr
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Topics: rhetorical criticism
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References (7)

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The Teaching of Technical Writing
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A paper delivered at the Special Session: Teaching Technical Writing
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↗
Glidden H. K., Reports, Technical Writing, and Specifications, McGraw-Hill, New York, p. 66, 1964.

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Souther J. W. (1976)

A paper delivered at the Special Session: Teaching Technical Writing
Smith D. M., The Practice of Silviculture, 7th edition, John Wiley and Sons, New York, pp. 389–418, 1962.

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Definition: The First Step in the Thinking/Writing Process

Abstract

Citation Context

Cited by in this index (0)

References (7)

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