Synopsis
Popular with all audiences. The eight chapters in Part 1, “Improving Immediately,” provide opportunities for rapid and dramatic improvement in both writing and speaking skills. The book concludes with Part 4, Quick Reference, equally popular with Part 1 among students, teachers, mass media professionals and reviewers. It gives them more than 1,500 fast-check answers for words frequently confused, words frequently misspelled, irregular verbs, wordiness and trite expressions.A thorough review. Parts 2 and 3 provide a thorough review of grammar and punctuation, the tools of a communicator’s trade. These 22 chapters are filled with detailed explanations, examples and advice on parts of speech, punctuation, sentence functions and structures, and syntax.Speed and convenience are enhanced by the comprehensive table of contents, the index and cross-references throughout the text.Free student workbook and an instructor’s manual. Teachers may obtain a workbook for students and an instructor’s manual free upon request. They can be used to supplement writing and editing courses or to provide a complete language skills course. (Email requests to gtarnold@comporium.net.)The workbook contains 30 class lessons and 64 exercises. The manual has 30 quizzes – one for each of the 30 class lessons – and answers and explanations for each of the 64 exercises. In addition, the 30 lessons are divided into three 100-point tests and are combined in a 300-point comprehensive final examination. Half of each of the three tests and all of the final examination can be graded by computer.“Test Yourself” questions and answers for applicable chapters are placed at the end of the textbook.Sensitivity in language. Writing effectively requires not only strong grammar and punctuation skills but also sensitivity. Mass communicators who use language that discriminates against race, religion, ethnicity, age, gender, marital status or physical and mental ability rarely do so from a mean spirit. They are either careless with the language or unaware of what is or is not contemporarily acceptable. The “Sensitivity in Language” chapter provides illuminating examples, insights and explanations. For use as needed. This book does not have to be read from beginning to end. Although that approach is recommended for those with fundamental language skills needs, the organization permits “sampling” by writers and broadcasters who use the language well but are nagged by little uncertainties. By design, some sections provide more explanations and examples than many users will need. This arrangement gives everyone an opportunity to work through the book at his or her own pace without feeling either bogged down or inadequately informed.
"About this title" may belong to another edition of this title.
