Project 3 and it's related blog posts will be probably the largest undertaking of this semester for English 109H. There is a great deal of information that needs to be researched. That is why I am making a schedule for myself so that I can stay on track to complete everything.
Sunday, April 3rd:
Have all of the Pre-Production blog posts and research done.
I don't want to have to worry too much about finding additional sources and information for the project at this point. So, I want to have Pre-Production all wrapped up by Sunday.
Monday, April 4th:
Begin the introduction section of my essay (introduce hydraulic fracturing, or fracking, explain arguments for and against, introduce a great idea to make fracking safer, cleaner and more efficient).
I want to get at least something done on Monday so that I can write my first production report on Tuesday. As well, I want to see if my issue is actually a viable one and writing the introduction, to me, is the point of no return. I either pick a new topic and start over or I continue onwards.
Tuesday, April 5th:
Begin the first body section (explain this new, great idea for making fracking better).
I don't want to go right out of the introduction and explain why the idea is so great from the get go. First, I want to explain more in depth the idea so that the audience understands what I am talking about.
As well, on this day, I want to get my first production report done. If possible, I will try to complete my first peer review on Tuesday.
Wednesday, April 6th:
Begin the second body section (explain WHY this new idea is so great).
This is the most important section of the body portion of my paper. As a result, I may spend two days on it to make sure that it is as perfect as possible.
Also, I want to complete my second peer review on this day.
Thursday, April 7th:
Finish the second body section.
Complete my second production report.
Friday, April 8th:
Begin the third body section (explain that there will still be opposition to this idea).
Although I am trying to state that the idea is great, I also want to point out that there will still be some opposition to the idea.
Saturday, April 9th:
Complete the conclusion section (reiterate about fracking, it's pros and cons, what is being done to make it safer, and why that idea is great).
Finalize Works Cited section.
Sunday, April 10th:
Complete the Reflection on the Production.
Go over my rough draft one final time for errors, convention mistakes, etc.
Submit my rough draft.
Thursday, March 31, 2016
Wednesday, March 30, 2016
Blog Post 10.1, Rhetorical Analysis of Project 3
Project 3 will be both a hard but interesting Project to do. For one, it will require a great deal of research and writing/filming/recording. However, we also have the opportunity to write about something that we are passionate about. Before the Rough Draft is even started, however, I must look at the Rhetorical Situation behind Project 3.
Author:
1.
My major, Geosciences, and my interest in it has a huge effect on what kind of issue I am going to research. I plan on writing about hydraulic fracturing, or "fracking", for oil and the pros/cons surrounding it.
I feel as if the issue of fracking is actually a rather hot button topic with very passionate camps either in support of, or opposing. As well, it is an issue that ties directly in to my major of Geosciences. Many Geology majors chose to go into the oil and gas business. It will be interesting to see if this project affects my career aspirations at all.
2.
Some preconceptions and bias does come into this project. I tend to lean conservative on some issues. One issue that I feel I am passionate about is energy. I hold mixed views on the topic, however. I do think that greener energy sources are the wave of the future. However, I also believe that if the United States is to be energy independent (that is, producing most of, if not all, of our energy without outside sources), we must tap into our huge reserves of oil and natural gas. Fracking has certainly expanded that field. Though, I do have concerns over the safety and environmental effects of fracking.
Audience:
1.
I am going to make this project for myself (to test my values) and for those who are interested in energy controversy. These people could be environmentalists or business professionals trying to get both sides of the issue.
2.
Environmentalists might see fracking as unnecessary, dangerous and polluting.
Those in the field or in business, however, might see fracking as a booming industry that will improve itself over time.
3.
For this project, I am thinking of identifying a new way that fracking is being done and identify how that idea is a great idea.
That argument might upset some who think of fracking as bad. However, it could also open their eyes to see that, with significant changes, fracking might be a viable way to tap into oil and gas.
Some in the industry might scoff at the idea that change is even necessary in the business. However, many more environmentally friendly ways of doing industry also tend to increase output (e.g Germany using wind turbines to generate huge amounts of electricity).
Overall I expect a mixed reaction from both sides.
4.
To connect with those in the industry, I might mention that I am in the field of Geosciences.
For those opposed to fracking, I might write a short section detailing some cons of fracking as it stands now.
In order for both sides to agree with me, I would need to create a "win-win" situation for both sides: cleaner, safer versions of fracking that also keep output where it is now or even increase output.
5.
I know of two people from both sides that I could try to write this paper for.
One of them is a friend from high school that is involved with Environmental Studies here at the University of Arizona. I could write the paper to try and convince her about safer forms of fracking.
As well, I know of a family friend that it interested in Geology and the oil and gas industry. I could write to convince him that new forms of fracking do not cut down on output and actually help the business overall.
Purpose:
1.
I want to show that fracking, despite the bad reputation it has amongst many critics, is still a viable form of energy procurement. Also, I want to illustrate the advances made in the field of fracking and how they will impact the future of the industry.
2.
What needs to be accomplished is, as I mentioned in the Audience section, a "win-win" situation for fracking and those concerned about the environment. It is true that fracking has some negative consequences on the environment. Those need to be addressed.
However, fracking can also be an incredibly useful tool for securing more energy independence for the U.S.
Context:
What genre?
1.
I will be writing a Standard College Essay for this project.
2.
The audience expects to see a plethora of sources and large blocks of texts. No images and no fuss.
3.
I have written many papers in high school (especially in MLA format!). As well, I have written a couple of papers so far at the University of Arizona in a Geography class.
4.
I feel somewhat comfortable writing an essay. I've done it dozens of times before so I know what, generally, to expect. I am worried that my sources or explanations might fall a bit short.
5.
Use of many sources because it establishes that the writer knows what he/she is talking about and is invested in the issue.
Also, MLA or APA formatting because it keeps the text clean, tidy and easy to read.
When?
1.
Congress, I am sure, has debated and voted on issues surrounding fracking. Such debates and information will not be hard to find and may prove useful in the project.
2.
Oil Milestone, CNN
Waterless Fracking, Fox
Fracking: The Pros and Cons, BBC
Fracking Fact-Finding, Australian Broadcasting Corporation
3.
Fracking is dangerous because it creates earthquakes.
Fracking pollutes groundwater.
The fracking industry hasn't been following correct laws and regulations.
Author:
1.
My major, Geosciences, and my interest in it has a huge effect on what kind of issue I am going to research. I plan on writing about hydraulic fracturing, or "fracking", for oil and the pros/cons surrounding it.
I feel as if the issue of fracking is actually a rather hot button topic with very passionate camps either in support of, or opposing. As well, it is an issue that ties directly in to my major of Geosciences. Many Geology majors chose to go into the oil and gas business. It will be interesting to see if this project affects my career aspirations at all.
2.
Some preconceptions and bias does come into this project. I tend to lean conservative on some issues. One issue that I feel I am passionate about is energy. I hold mixed views on the topic, however. I do think that greener energy sources are the wave of the future. However, I also believe that if the United States is to be energy independent (that is, producing most of, if not all, of our energy without outside sources), we must tap into our huge reserves of oil and natural gas. Fracking has certainly expanded that field. Though, I do have concerns over the safety and environmental effects of fracking.
Audience:
1.
I am going to make this project for myself (to test my values) and for those who are interested in energy controversy. These people could be environmentalists or business professionals trying to get both sides of the issue.
2.
Environmentalists might see fracking as unnecessary, dangerous and polluting.
Those in the field or in business, however, might see fracking as a booming industry that will improve itself over time.
3.
For this project, I am thinking of identifying a new way that fracking is being done and identify how that idea is a great idea.
That argument might upset some who think of fracking as bad. However, it could also open their eyes to see that, with significant changes, fracking might be a viable way to tap into oil and gas.
Some in the industry might scoff at the idea that change is even necessary in the business. However, many more environmentally friendly ways of doing industry also tend to increase output (e.g Germany using wind turbines to generate huge amounts of electricity).
Overall I expect a mixed reaction from both sides.
4.
To connect with those in the industry, I might mention that I am in the field of Geosciences.
For those opposed to fracking, I might write a short section detailing some cons of fracking as it stands now.
In order for both sides to agree with me, I would need to create a "win-win" situation for both sides: cleaner, safer versions of fracking that also keep output where it is now or even increase output.
5.
I know of two people from both sides that I could try to write this paper for.
One of them is a friend from high school that is involved with Environmental Studies here at the University of Arizona. I could write the paper to try and convince her about safer forms of fracking.
As well, I know of a family friend that it interested in Geology and the oil and gas industry. I could write to convince him that new forms of fracking do not cut down on output and actually help the business overall.
Purpose:
1.
I want to show that fracking, despite the bad reputation it has amongst many critics, is still a viable form of energy procurement. Also, I want to illustrate the advances made in the field of fracking and how they will impact the future of the industry.
2.
What needs to be accomplished is, as I mentioned in the Audience section, a "win-win" situation for fracking and those concerned about the environment. It is true that fracking has some negative consequences on the environment. Those need to be addressed.
However, fracking can also be an incredibly useful tool for securing more energy independence for the U.S.
Context:
What genre?
1.
I will be writing a Standard College Essay for this project.
2.
The audience expects to see a plethora of sources and large blocks of texts. No images and no fuss.
3.
I have written many papers in high school (especially in MLA format!). As well, I have written a couple of papers so far at the University of Arizona in a Geography class.
4.
I feel somewhat comfortable writing an essay. I've done it dozens of times before so I know what, generally, to expect. I am worried that my sources or explanations might fall a bit short.
5.
Use of many sources because it establishes that the writer knows what he/she is talking about and is invested in the issue.
Also, MLA or APA formatting because it keeps the text clean, tidy and easy to read.
When?
1.
Congress, I am sure, has debated and voted on issues surrounding fracking. Such debates and information will not be hard to find and may prove useful in the project.
2.
Oil Milestone, CNN
Waterless Fracking, Fox
Fracking: The Pros and Cons, BBC
Fracking Fact-Finding, Australian Broadcasting Corporation
3.
Fracking is dangerous because it creates earthquakes.
Fracking pollutes groundwater.
The fracking industry hasn't been following correct laws and regulations.
Sunday, March 27, 2016
Blog Post 9.5, Reflection Post-Production
Overall, the Post-Production phase was very eye-opening and stressful. I feel as if it was harder and more constrained than in project 1 due to the distractions of spring break. While I think the finished product is good, I am sure that I did not follow the QRG format correctly (Which I will explain below).
- What were some of the successes (or, things that went right) during this week’s process work? Explain, with evidence.
I was able to complete my works cited and change the format of my QRG significantly. Where before there was long, indented paragraphs and walls of text, there are now more pictures, shorter paragraphs, numbered and bulleted lists, and a faster read overall.
- What were some of the challenges (or, things that went wrong) during this week’s process work? Explain, with evidence.
I honestly feel that despite my best efforts, my QRG still has more of a College Essay feel to it. While I did try to include pictures on just about every page, my QRG runs rather long: 11 pages including Title Page and Works Cited! As well, I feel that perhaps more hyperlinks should have been included in the QRG. However, I really could not find much else to link in to my QRG.
- How do you think next week will go, based on your experiences this week?
Next week will certainly be a bit more relaxed; now that Project 2 is over. However, I will also need to be prepared to write Project 3. Arguably, that project will be harder since I need to take a side in the debate discussed in Project 1.
- How are you feeling about the project overall at this point?
I feel that while my QRG is far from perfect, it is still a serviceable document for its purpose. I was supposed to explain the genres of writing that exist in Geosciences and elaborate on what sets them apart. I feel like I accomplished this goal; albeit accomplished in a rather lengthy document.
Blog Post 9.4, Editorial Report 2
For this report, I will focus on the Works Cited section of my QRG. In the Rough Cut, I left the section blank and decided to fill it in later. While this was, admittedly, a bit of an unorthodox approach, I wanted to get the Rough Cut done quickly.
Selection from Rough Cut:
Selection from Rough Cut:
Works Cited:
(1)
(2)
(3)
(4)
(5)
(6)
Obviously, a blank Works Cited for the Final Cut would be unacceptable. So, I finally completed it!
Re-Edited Selection:
Works Cited:
(1) Mariah C. Romero-Armenta, Barbara Carrapa and Peter DeCeiles. Timing of Exhumation of Laramide Ranges in Montana Constrained by Detrital and In-situ Apatite Fission Track Thermochronology. University of Arizona Geosciences Department. Date unknown. Poster.
(2) Stephen Meister, et. al. Imaging of Plasmodium Liver Stages to Drive Next-Generation Antimalarial Drug Discovery. Science Magazine. December 9th, 2011. Journal Article.
(3) Fukashi Maeno, Setsuya Nakada, and Takayuki Kaneko. Morphological evolution of a new volcanic islet sustained by compound lava flows. University of Tokyo Earthquake Research Institute. February 24th, 2016 (Published online). Journal Article.
(5) Dr. Robert Bowen. Geothermal Resources. Applied Science Publishers LTD. Date unknown. Scientific Paper.
With a complete Works Cited section, my QRG is almost ready for final publication!
Saturday, March 26, 2016
Blog Post 9.3, Editorial Report 1
Thus far, I have made or planned a few small edits to my rough draft. Obviously, more will be done by tomorrow. So far, I have edited the section of my QRG titled: "Journal Articles". Below is the original, rough cut.
Selection from Rough Cut:
Journal Articles are different from Posters in that more emphasis is placed upon written words rather than visual aids. Articles are typically anywhere from four to maybe a dozen pages long, depending on research type. As well, Journal Articles use much more technical language than posters. An excellent example of a Journal Article is this article (2) that appeared in the latest edition of Geology magazine. Also, a good visual example of Journal writing can be seen on the right (3).
Since Articles are limited by the length of the scientific magazine, data must be communicated
quickly but efficiently. According to Dr. George Gehrels (4), one of the Geosciences faculty at the
University of Arizona, researchers must pay per page to have their research featured in journals (if
selected, of course). This means that authors may have to revise their articles several times before
they are finally accepted.
Although their length is limited a bit, Journal Articles are typically longer than Posters. Also, compared to posters, there are not a great deal of bulleted or numbered lists.
Journal Articles are used to share scientific research and data quickly with less visual data than
Posters. As well, Journal Articles tend to reach a larger audience than Posters or even Scientific
Papers do. Lastly, Journal Articles are usually longer than Posters, but shorter than Papers.
On the QRG done by my group member, Chase, I noticed that he added several hyperlinks to academic journal sites talking about the medical profession. I chose to do the same for this section of my QRG. As well, I clarified an issue brought up by my other group mate, Ben. He stated that the highlighted section above was confusing because Articles have more technical language and should, therefore, reach a smaller, more defined audience. I made changes to this section and clarified that Articles do not reach a larger audience, but rather, a more experienced audience. Finally, I created shorter paragraphs from the larger blocks of text that I had and broke up the Article structure paragraph into a numbered list.
Re-Edited Selection:
An excellent visual example of Journal writing can be seen on the right (2).
Selection from Rough Cut:
Journal Articles:
The second genre to be discussed is Journal Articles in scientific magazines. Like Posters, Articles communicate research from field work or a project and try to do so in a short but concise manner. Because space for visual data may be limited, however, the kinds of projects that can be put into Article form may be limited.
Although articles can vary greatly, most follow similar structure. There is usually a short introduction including a hypothesis, body paragraphs or sections to describe research or data, and a concluding section to touch upon the hypothesis. As well, after the actually writing, there is a references/works cited section.
Journal Articles are different from Posters in that more emphasis is placed upon written words rather than visual aids. Articles are typically anywhere from four to maybe a dozen pages long, depending on research type. As well, Journal Articles use much more technical language than posters. An excellent example of a Journal Article is this article (2) that appeared in the latest edition of Geology magazine. Also, a good visual example of Journal writing can be seen on the right (3).quickly but efficiently. According to Dr. George Gehrels (4), one of the Geosciences faculty at the
University of Arizona, researchers must pay per page to have their research featured in journals (if
selected, of course). This means that authors may have to revise their articles several times before
they are finally accepted.
Although their length is limited a bit, Journal Articles are typically longer than Posters. Also, compared to posters, there are not a great deal of bulleted or numbered lists.
Journal Articles are used to share scientific research and data quickly with less visual data than
Posters. As well, Journal Articles tend to reach a larger audience than Posters or even Scientific
Papers do. Lastly, Journal Articles are usually longer than Posters, but shorter than Papers.
On the QRG done by my group member, Chase, I noticed that he added several hyperlinks to academic journal sites talking about the medical profession. I chose to do the same for this section of my QRG. As well, I clarified an issue brought up by my other group mate, Ben. He stated that the highlighted section above was confusing because Articles have more technical language and should, therefore, reach a smaller, more defined audience. I made changes to this section and clarified that Articles do not reach a larger audience, but rather, a more experienced audience. Finally, I created shorter paragraphs from the larger blocks of text that I had and broke up the Article structure paragraph into a numbered list.
Re-Edited Selection:
Journal Articles:
The second genre to be discussed is Journal Articles in scientific magazines. Like Posters, Articles communicate research from field work or a project and try to do so in a short but concise manner. Because space for visual data may be limited, however, the kinds of projects that can be put into Article form may be limited. Listed below are some examples of scientific journals dealing mostly with Geosciences.
Although articles can vary greatly, most follow similar structure:
- Short introduction including a hypothesis
- Body paragraphs or sections to describe research or data
- Concluding section to touch upon the hypothesis.
- As well, after the actually writing, there is a references/works cited section.
An excellent visual example of Journal writing can be seen on the right (2).
Journal Articles are different from Posters in that more emphasis is placed upon written words rather than visual aids. Articles are typically anywhere from four to maybe a dozen pages long, depending on research type. As well, Journal Articles use much more technical language than posters. An excellent example of a Journal Article is this article (3) that appeared in the latest edition of Geology magazine.
Since Articles are limited by the length of the scientific magazine, data must be communicated quickly but efficiently. According to Dr. George Gehrels (4), one of the Geosciences faculty at the University of Arizona, researchers must pay per page to have their research featured in journals (if selected, of course). This means that authors may have to revise their articles several times before they are finally accepted.
Although their length is limited a bit, Journal Articles are typically longer than Posters. Also, compared to posters, there are not a great deal of bulleted or numbered lists.
Journal Articles are mostly used to share scientific research and data quickly with less visual data than Posters. As well, Journal Articles tend to reach a more experienced and technical audience than Posters do. Lastly, Journal Articles are usually longer than Posters, but shorter than Papers.
Friday, March 25, 2016
Blog Post 9.2, Peer Review for Chase Nicholson
Chase did a QRG for his second project; it can be found here.
Seeing as Chase and myself are both doing QRGs, I thought it would be good for us to peer review each other. Although QRGs are, by definition, shorter than the other projects, they can still be difficult to write.
Overall, Chase did a very good job on his first draft of the QRG considering that he was pressed for time. I especially like that he put several hyperlinks to medical journals in his QRG.
However, some work still needs to be done. For this Peer Review, I am going to make a content suggestion for Chase:
The last bit of his QRB (Interview) appears to be unfinished. There are only a couple of sentences and a brief description of the outline of medical Interviews.
I would highly recommend adding more content and research into this section of the QRG. It will help explain how Interviews are an important genre in medical writing.
As for citations and hyperlinks, they all work very well in Chase's QRG. He supplied several hyperlinks to medical journals. I will certainly try to include more hyperlinks in my own QRG.
Seeing as Chase and myself are both doing QRGs, I thought it would be good for us to peer review each other. Although QRGs are, by definition, shorter than the other projects, they can still be difficult to write.
Overall, Chase did a very good job on his first draft of the QRG considering that he was pressed for time. I especially like that he put several hyperlinks to medical journals in his QRG.
However, some work still needs to be done. For this Peer Review, I am going to make a content suggestion for Chase:
The last bit of his QRB (Interview) appears to be unfinished. There are only a couple of sentences and a brief description of the outline of medical Interviews.
I would highly recommend adding more content and research into this section of the QRG. It will help explain how Interviews are an important genre in medical writing.
As for citations and hyperlinks, they all work very well in Chase's QRG. He supplied several hyperlinks to medical journals. I will certainly try to include more hyperlinks in my own QRG.
Wednesday, March 23, 2016
Blog Post 9.1, Peer Review for Ben Meyer
Ben Meyer, Rough Draft:
Opening
Claim 1
Claim 1 cont.
Claim 2
Claim 3
Ben Meyer did a Podcast for his second project. Overall, the project was done well. Ben did post a blog post describing that there were quite a few pauses in the podcast. This was indeed the case.
While the pauses can distract a bit from the overall claims and what is being said, they can also be easy to fix. When I (Joshua) did a Video Essay, I often found that my narration was not very solid or sounded forced and/or choppy. As a result, I had to go back and re-do some sections.
Overall, I am going to give Ben a re-design recommendation:
First and foremost, some of the narration would benefit from a re-do; especially in the opening section. Take some time to think about, or maybe even write down, what you are going to say. There will be less pauses this way.
Also, the addition of transition, opening, and ending music would certainly help this project. Any kind of audio project should have some sort of music or sound effects to entice the audience into listening to what is being said.
Finally, if anything should be eliminated, it should be the section of "Claim 1, cont". Both sections of Claim 1 should be combined to cut down on the amount of segments the podcast is in. This will make it look like the podcast has only four segments instead of five, thereby increasing audience engagement.
Opening
Claim 1
Claim 1 cont.
Claim 2
Claim 3
Ben Meyer did a Podcast for his second project. Overall, the project was done well. Ben did post a blog post describing that there were quite a few pauses in the podcast. This was indeed the case.
While the pauses can distract a bit from the overall claims and what is being said, they can also be easy to fix. When I (Joshua) did a Video Essay, I often found that my narration was not very solid or sounded forced and/or choppy. As a result, I had to go back and re-do some sections.
Overall, I am going to give Ben a re-design recommendation:
First and foremost, some of the narration would benefit from a re-do; especially in the opening section. Take some time to think about, or maybe even write down, what you are going to say. There will be less pauses this way.
Also, the addition of transition, opening, and ending music would certainly help this project. Any kind of audio project should have some sort of music or sound effects to entice the audience into listening to what is being said.
Finally, if anything should be eliminated, it should be the section of "Claim 1, cont". Both sections of Claim 1 should be combined to cut down on the amount of segments the podcast is in. This will make it look like the podcast has only four segments instead of five, thereby increasing audience engagement.
Sunday, March 13, 2016
Blog Post 8.3, Production Reflection
Writing my QRG rough draft was not particularly challenging. No video or audio recording equipment was necessary; which made content making as easy as logging into Google Drive and bringing up my paper. Some challenges did occur, however.
- What were some of the successes (or, things that went right) during this week’s process work? Explain, with evidence.
The main thing that went right during this week was I got the rough draft finished! I procrastinated a bit and didn't finish until Sunday night; when I was already on vacation. Despite the distractions around me, I finished my work on time.
Another success was that I found several good images for use in my draft. I feel that these visuals will help readers understand what each genre looks like.
- What were some of the challenges (or, things that went wrong) during this week’s process work? Explain, with evidence.
Although the rough draft is a decent first try, there are some missing pieces. I did not add a works cited, opting instead to finish that process in the final edit. This emission may cause some confusion for peer reviewers!
- How do you think next week will go, based on your experiences this week?
I think that the next couple of weeks will go rather well. Correcting papers tends to be easy. At least, easier than correcting video or audio clips!
- How are you feeling about the project overall at this point?
I feel that while my QRG is decent, my video that I did for the first major project was better. Writing about the genres in Geosciences may seem a bit dull. Watching a video about a major controversy in the same field, however, is much more exciting. Overall, I feel as if the context surrounding project 2 may be boring to readers.
Blog Post 8.4, QRG Rough Draft
Below is my Rough Draft of my QRG:
Writing About Our Planet
(I will add Works Cited later, in the final edit)
Writing About Our Planet
(I will add Works Cited later, in the final edit)
Friday, March 11, 2016
Blog Post 8.2, 2nd Production Report
For this Production Report, I want to focus on my first body section dealing with Scientific Posters:
Outline Item:
Outline Item:
- Body Section 1: Posters
Briefly describe Scientific Posters. Point out main parts of the poster (Introduction, conclusion, etc.). Explain how posters are different from other genres.
Main idea: Posters are used to communicate a great deal of scientific data and conclusions through mostly visual effects (graphs, data sheets, etc.). Shortest of the genres and uses the least technical language.
Evidence 1: Take a picture of a scientific poster in Gould-Simpson building. Point out that much space is used for visual effects.
This piece of evidence is important because it backs up the main idea statement that posters are mostly visual based.
Evidence 2: Take a picture of the actual writing used on the poster.
This evidence is important because it will prove that writing on posters is typically short and doesn't used a great deal of technical language.
Adaption of Outline Item:
Adaption of Outline Item:
Scientific Posters:
The first genre that will be examined is the Scientific Poster. Posters are typically made to communicate research from a scientific project. The setting for this research can vary. It may have been gathered in the field, in a lab, or through observations made over time.
Regardless of where the data came from, most scientific posters have more or less the same structure: An introduction section to explain where the research was conducted, the context for doing the project and introduce the hypothesis for the research, a background section discussing the kinds of materials, tools and work that was needed to complete the project, a large section open in the middle of the poster to display graphs, charts and other visual data, a conclusions section to describe what happened during experimentation and whether the hypothesis was supported by evidence, and, finally, a references and acknowledgements section.
Scientific Posters are also unique in scientific writing in that more emphasis is placed on the visual effects (graphs, charts, etc.), rather than what has been written. Most research communication is done through analyzing the visual data on the poster and reading the conclusions, rather than pages or even chapters of text being used to describe what happened. Because of this, scientists making Posters will attempt to make their graphs and data charts stand out against the words written. An excellent example of this is the poster pictured above (1). Much of the poster space is dedicated to graphical and numerical data visuals.
As well, Posters are usually the shortest form of scientific writing. The writing pictured on the right came from the same poster that was discussed in the last paragraph (1). Writing on Posters is typically formatted in this way; with numbered or bulleted lists, short paragraphs or sentences, and somewhat limited use of technical language compared to the other genres.
Overall, Posters are used for sharing data quickly and without a huge amount of technical jargon. The audience for Posters is broader than other scientific writing genres because a Poster can be read and understood quickly. Finally, Posters rely heavily on visual aids to disseminate important data points and research.
Thursday, March 10, 2016
Blog Post 8.1, Production Report
So far, production on my QRG is going well. I have several images in place, a working title, and the introduction and first body section complete! For this report, I will focus on my introduction progress.
Outline Item:
Explain the kind of writing style that is prevalent in geosciences. Briefly introduce each genre: Poster, Article, and Paper.
Main idea: Writing in geosciences is technical and requires mastery of technical language and concepts within the field. There are three major genre types in geosciences: Scientific Posters, Scientific Articles, and Scientific Papers.
Attention Grabbers: Interesting title and pictures of volcanic eruptions or other action-packed geologic events.
Adaption of Outline Item:
The main genres that exist are Scientific Posters, Scientific Articles (Journals), and Scientific
Papers. While all three are types of scientific writing, each genre has differences varying from
context to audience to the length of the writing used to the use of technical language.
Outline Item:
- Opening:
Explain the kind of writing style that is prevalent in geosciences. Briefly introduce each genre: Poster, Article, and Paper.
Main idea: Writing in geosciences is technical and requires mastery of technical language and concepts within the field. There are three major genre types in geosciences: Scientific Posters, Scientific Articles, and Scientific Papers.
Attention Grabbers: Interesting title and pictures of volcanic eruptions or other action-packed geologic events.
Adaption of Outline Item:
Writing About Our Planet
Joshua Smith
English 109H
Genres of Writing in Geosciences:
Writing in Geosciences is very much different from writing in other fields or majors. Those writing literature must possess a varied and colorful vocabulary, people in business must be able to use persuasive language to entice others to buy or retail a product and historians must be able to describe an event in rich detail. Scientific writing, however, typically involves the use of highly technical and concise terminology (use of important terms and vocabulary within the field. E.g. For Geosciences: Plate Tectonics) and structure.
While those outside of Geosciences understand that the structure, purpose and terminology of scientific writing is roughly the same throughout the field, they might not understand that there are actually at least three separate genres of writing for Geosciences.
Papers. While all three are types of scientific writing, each genre has differences varying from
context to audience to the length of the writing used to the use of technical language.
Tuesday, March 8, 2016
Blog Post 7.3, Pre-Production Reflection
Although Pre-Production week was technically turned into two weeks, it was still done without much confusion. As usual, there were some ups and downs to contend with. I will outline my experiences on this post.
- What were some of the successes (or, things that went right) during this week’s process work? Explain, with evidence.
While not exactly "this week", I'd have to say my biggest success was getting both of my interviews done on time. As well, both interviews provided me with a wealth of information. For example, I learned that Dr. Gehrels explained geosciences writing as technical, concise, and accurate. This statement will certainly help me write my project.
- What were some of the challenges (or, things that went wrong) during this week’s process work? Explain, with evidence.
The biggest roadblock during this week was gaining access to scientific journals and papers. Many sites, including the one I looked at the most: Geology, require one to pay for access. Luckily, as a student, I was able to enter my credentials and gain some access. However, some access is still limited.
- How do you think next week will go, based on your experiences this week?
I think that I will be able to get at least a working draft done by Sunday. One issue may be finding secondary examples of my genre. I had really only planned on sharing one example from each genre that I selected. Now, I must be prepared to share more information. As well, I still need to search for relevant images to my project.
- How are you feeling about the project overall at this point?
Monday, March 7, 2016
Blog Post 7.1, Content Outline
Before actually starting production on my QRG, I should be sure to outline what the content will look like on the project. To this end, I made a content outline below:
Explain the kind of writing style that is prevalent in geosciences. Briefly introduce each genre: Poster, Article, and Paper.
Main idea: Writing in geosciences is technical and requires mastery of technical language and concepts within the field. There are three major genre types in geosciences: Scientific Posters, Scientific Articles, and Scientific Papers.
Attention Grabbers: Interesting title and pictures of volcanic eruptions or other action-packed geologic events.
- Opening:
Explain the kind of writing style that is prevalent in geosciences. Briefly introduce each genre: Poster, Article, and Paper.
Main idea: Writing in geosciences is technical and requires mastery of technical language and concepts within the field. There are three major genre types in geosciences: Scientific Posters, Scientific Articles, and Scientific Papers.
Attention Grabbers: Interesting title and pictures of volcanic eruptions or other action-packed geologic events.
- Body Section 1: Posters
Briefly describe Scientific Posters. Point out main parts of the poster (Introduction, conclusion, etc.). Explain how posters are different from other genres.
Main idea: Posters are used to communicate a great deal of scientific data and conclusions through mostly visual effects (graphs, data sheets, etc.). Shortest of the genres and uses the least technical language.
Evidence 1: Take a picture of a scientific poster in Gould-Simpson building. Point out that much space is used for visual effects.
This piece of evidence is important because it backs up the main idea statement that posters are mostly visual based.
Evidence 2: Take a picture of the actual writing used on the poster.
This evidence is important because it will prove that writing on posters is typically short and doesn't used a great deal of technical language.
- Body Section 2: Articles
Describe Scientific Articles. Point out main parts (Abstract, data, conclusion, etc.). Explain how articles are different.
Main idea: Articles are a longer version of scientific writing that puts less emphasis on visual data and more emphasis on actual written data and concepts. There is a great deal of technical language used. Most scientists find articles to be crucial for gathering research into an area of study.
Evidence 1: Japan Volcano Article
Evidence is crucial because it illustrates that articles are mostly text based with some visual back-ups. Also backs up the idea that technical language is used.
Evidence 2: Interview with Kate Metcalf
In this interview, Kate stated that one of the harder parts of writing in geosciences was getting caught up on new research, articles, and papers that are being put out. Reading articles in major publications may help narrow the search for relevant info greatly.
- Body Section 3: Papers
Describe Scientific Papers. Main parts (Abstract, major chapters, conclusions, etc.). Explain how papers are different.
Main idea: Papers are the longest and most technical genre to write in. Usually measured in tens or even hundreds of pages! However, they are typically the most rewarding for a researcher.
Evidence 1: Find hard or online copy of a Paper.
This evidence is important because I can count the number of pages within and get pictures of the text itself to prove that papers are incredibly long and have the most technical language of all three genres.
Evidence 2: Interview with Dr. Gehrels
In his interview, Dr. Gehrels stated that his favorite scientific publication was a paper he wrote about the geology of the Grand Canyon. He stated that this paper received major attention due to it's interesting conclusion and was overall a rewarding paper to write. This evidence will support the claim that researchers are rewarded most heavily for papers.
- Closing
Review the three genres again and what separates them. Throw in some more statements from interviews if necessary to drive home the point. Explain that while writing in geosciences is hard, the researchers I interviewed still enjoy the field greatly.
Main idea: Each genre has pros/cons to it. Although writing in the field of geosciences is hard in any genre, the researchers still enjoy doing it and advancing the field.
Significance idea: Dr. Gehrels stated that he enjoys the field because he gets to conduct his own research and write on his own.
Sunday, March 6, 2016
Blog Post 7.2, Production Schedule
My second project will be a QRG on the writing styles and genres contained within the field of geosciences. Although the QRG is typically the shortest of the projects to write for, a great deal of work must still be done. To ensure that a working draft is done on time, I made a work schedule for myself, contained below:
Tuesday, March 8th: Try to complete the title heading along with the introduction paragraph. As well, I will attempt to find relevant images for the QRG.
Wednesday, March 9th: Complete body paragraph #1: scientific poster genre. Search for more images if necessary.
Thursday, March 10th: Complete body paragraphs 2 and 3: scientific articles and scientific papers.
Friday, March 11th: Complete conclusion and references.
Saturday, March 12th: Look over draft and submit.
Most of this work will be conducted while I am still at the University of Arizona. However, on Saturday I will be flying out to Pennsylvania. While I am waiting in the airports, I will look over my draft and ensure that it is ready for submission.
All of the writing will be done on my desktop/laptop. Since it is a QRG, no audio or video recording devices are necessary.
Since Saturday is my semi-revision day, I might make significant changes to any work done on Tuesday-Friday.
Tuesday, March 8th: Try to complete the title heading along with the introduction paragraph. As well, I will attempt to find relevant images for the QRG.
Wednesday, March 9th: Complete body paragraph #1: scientific poster genre. Search for more images if necessary.
Thursday, March 10th: Complete body paragraphs 2 and 3: scientific articles and scientific papers.
Friday, March 11th: Complete conclusion and references.
Saturday, March 12th: Look over draft and submit.
Most of this work will be conducted while I am still at the University of Arizona. However, on Saturday I will be flying out to Pennsylvania. While I am waiting in the airports, I will look over my draft and ensure that it is ready for submission.
All of the writing will be done on my desktop/laptop. Since it is a QRG, no audio or video recording devices are necessary.
Since Saturday is my semi-revision day, I might make significant changes to any work done on Tuesday-Friday.
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