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Peggy Elliott

Len Serafino 

Webmaster

 

Written Communications Syllabus, Eng. 225

Instructor: Ms. Peggy Elliott
peggyelliott@comcast.net; peggye@wcs.edu


http://www.brentwoodtoastmasters.org/homepage-Elliott.htm

Phone: 615-497-5296

I. Course Description

This course is designed to give students a comprehensive view of communication, its scope and importance in business. Students will practice both written and oral communication with the heavier emphasis on the written communication skills. Various types of business communication media are covered. The assignments are to be keyboarded, unless otherwise instructed.

II. Textbook and Other Materials

Foundations of Business Communication; Dona J. Young; 2006 ed., McGraw Hill Publishing Company, New York, New York

Personal Dictionary

Suggested Online dictionary: Website: http://www.ldoceonline.com/

Pen, paper, and flash drive.

III. Course Objectives

By the end of this course, students should be able to:

  • Understand and demonstrate the use of basic and advanced proper writing techniques that today's technology demands, including anticipating audience reaction,

  • Write effective and concise letters and memos,

  • Prepare informal and formal reports,

  • Proofread and edit copies of business correspondence,

  • Complete an accurate resume and cover letter,

  • Practice interviewing skills.

  • Plan successfully for and participate in meetings

  • Conduct proper techniques in telephone usage,

  • Use e-mail effectively and efficiently,

  • Develop interpersonal skills that contribute to working in an off-site environment, as well as in a traditional office setting.

  • Utilize electronic presentation software.

  • Understand office etiquette and accepted business practices.


 

IV. Attendance Procedure

Punctuality and regular attendance in classes is of prime importance for successful completion of this course, just as the same punctuality and attendance is important in the business world. Students will be expected to arrive for class on time and to remain in class until the end of the class session. Leaving the class early requires a check out with me.

Note: If you miss a class, it is your responsibility to e-mail me (Ms. Elliott), or leave a phone message to find out what was covered in class and to find out your assignments for the following class. Check the webpage for updated assignments. You also need to state how you will make up the missed work. If no contact is made, late assignments will not be accepted, and a grade of “0” will be entered in the grade book.

If you are in class, you are expected to submit your homework or assignment at the beginning of the class period.  If you are not in class, you must submit your homework, assignments, and lab assignments by the beginning of the next class. Your grade will be lowered one grade letter for each week it is late.

Reward for Good Attendance:

If you have perfect attendance, your final grade will be increased 5 points.

Attendance Watch:

You will be automatically dropped from the class if your absence from class exceeds 14 hours. That is the equivalent of missed 3.5 classes

 VII. Methods of Evaluation

Acceptable vs. Unacceptable

Business Communication skills to master:      

Any work that is not ready to be mailed to supposed customers is unacceptable and must be redone.    (70% grade)

Spelling, Punctuation, Grammar, Sentence structure, Business format, organization, vocabulary, logic, tone, intent, clarity, correctness, completeness, courtesy, conciseness, timeliness, legibility, inter-personal group work, ability to follow instructions, understanding research process, and adhering to classroom/workplace policies.

      Tests                                                    (0-100) Test score     (15% grade)

      Research project                                    (0-100) Based on rubric  (15% grade)

       National College Grading Scale Final Scores:      

                              A  94-100                      B  84-93            C  74-83         D  64-73         F   0-63           

 


 

VIII. Course Outline  (subject to change, based on time and skill levels)

 Week 1            Chapter 1          Communication and the Writing Process

                        Chapter 2          What is Good Business Writing

Week 2             Chapter 3          Developing and Revising Short Business Messages

Week 3             Test chapters 1-3

                        Chapter 4          Office Communications

Week 4             Chapter 5          Persuasive Communications

Week 5             Chapter 6          Verbal Communications

                                                Research project guidelines

Week 6             Chapter 7          Global Communication and Technology

Week 7             Test chapters 4-7

                        Chapter 8          Team Communications

Week 8             Chapter 9          Getting a Job

Week 9             Chapter 10        Communicating on the Job

Week 10           Test chapters 8-10

                        Review of Writer’s Handbook

Week 11           Final Exam