Where Good Ideas Come From

Proposal Outline

Problem Statement

goal: prove that a pressing problem exists for the audience—which implies…

· exigence: urgency, connection to the present time—why a problem NOW?

· remember the audience—explain how problem affects them—how do you know?

· Briefly, but specifically, proposes a solution to the problem that is fitting for both exigence and audience.

Proposed Solution

goal: to prove that the document will alleviate the problem for the audience and client

· tie to problem: in problem section, identified various elements of problem, consequences of problem—in solution section, show HOW solution will alleviate each one

· in plans for document, talk about audience’s and commissioner’s needs and how you plan to accommodate—describe what you know about audience and how you know it, and how it will affect what you write

Work Plan

goal: to prove your plan will produce the desired result on time

· include as much detail as possible—all the steps you’ll take, what you hope to gain from them, division of labor, research questions, precautions against delays

· schedule your work—deadlines for intermediate tasks (can use table format)

Qualifications

goal: to prove you are prepared

· relevant experience—classes, previous work of this kind, etc.

· people who have agreed to help

· position relative to audience and how it will affect document, your work, etc.

Don’t forget to include a title that is specific to your problem and solution.

Problem Statement Workshop

As always, start with the writer’s questions before moving on to the questions you have as a reader. Then, if these haven’t already been discussed, consider the following:

Structure: Is it appropriate? Would a different structure be more persuasive? Make specific suggestions for revision.

Specificity: Is the PS specific enough about the problem(s), the proposed solution, and how the solution will address the problem? Make specific suggestions for revision.

Language: Is the language clear, concise, and precise? Make specific suggestions for revision.

Genre as Social Action Questions

· How does Miller define genre? How does this definition differ from other definitions of genre? Refer to specific passages in the article.

· How does the idea of “rhetorical situation” figure into Miller’s conception of genre? On what points does she agree with Lloyd Bitzer and on what points does she disagree? How do these points of agreement and disagreement help her build her conception of genre? Refer to specific passages in the article.

· Now that you’ve read both Bitzer and Miller now, whose model of the rhetorical situation do you prefer (e.g. find most accurate and useful)? Why?

· As a group, think of one or more examples that would meet Miller’s conception of genre. Be prepared to defend your example(s) using passages in the article.