For this assignment, you will introduce yourself to me in a1-2 page, single-spaced memothat follows the guidelines below.  Turn in one typed, thoroughly revised copy at the beginning of class on Monday, August 31.  This assignment is worth 20 points toward your final grade.

 

Introduce Yourself

The purpose of this assignment is to let me know what you are bringing to the table in this class.  Although English 202D is designed to help you become a better business writer, your past writing experience will still be an important resource.  Describe your prior writing experience, whether as a student, an employee, or simply a participant in day-to-day life.  What do you feel are your strengths as a writer?  How might you be able to apply these strengths to business writing specifically?

 

Next, tell me what you hope to gain from this course.  Be specific; don’t rehash the syllabus and tell me what you think I want to hear.  What do you perceive to be your weaknesses as a writer?  How do you wish to improve?  What are your educational and professional goals?  How might this class help you achieve those goals?

 

Guidelines

Use memo format as described in the section on “Memos” in The Business Writer’s Handbook. (Note: This assignment sheet is an example of memo format.)  When appropriate, use headings, lists, and white space to make your document reader-friendly and easy to navigate (see Handbook pgs. 317-18 for more information on these techniques).

 

This will be my first impression of you as a writer, and first impressions are very important.Revise and proofread your document carefully.  As always in this class, you will be graded on formatting, organization, grammar, and spelling, as well as on content.  Sloppiness in any of these areas reflects negatively on you, and in the business world it reflects negatively on the company you represent.

 

 

Business writing does not have to be boring, but neither should it be flashy or silly.  Try to find a balance between personality and professionalism.