Modules 15 & 16

Modules 15 and 16 talk about using the right words and revising sentences and paragraphs.  Module 15 explains how using the right words is very important for conveying the right message to your reader.  There are three different definitions at the beginning of the chapter: accurate words, which are the appropriate words, appropriate words, which convery the attitudes you want, and familiar words, which are easy to read and understand.  Making sure that all of these fit together is very important for giving the right message, and what you really mean to say.  The book also mentions denotation, which is the actual dictionary meaning of the word, and connotation, which is the emotional part of the word.  It is crucial that both parts match when using any words because if it does not make sense, the person will not get the message.  It is also important that any jargon that is used is understood by the reader, or they will not get the message that you are trying to convey either.  Module 16 talks about revising sentences and paragraphs.  The module gives different pieces of advice.  The first is to use active verbs most of the time.  This means use verbs at the beginning of sentences, instead of who the action what done by or for.  The second goes along with that to say that verbs should carry your sentences.  The third says to tighten your writing, as in the be less "wordy" and get straight to the point in sentences and paragraphs.  Also, it says to vary sentence lengths.  In paragraphs it says to let your reader know the point of the writing in the intro sentences, as well as to use transitions in the paragraphs and when going to a new one.

The most important thing I think that I learned in these modules was about using verbs before the person who did them or who they were done for.  This will make the reader think that the action was taken quickly and that it was actually done.