By Wednesday's class, reflect on the "playhouse" letter I supplied in class. Based on the advice given in the text and in class, what are the strengths of the letter? What are its weaknesses?
You don't have to blog it, but also take a look at Ex. 5.2 in the text and please come prepared to discuss it, as well.
The letter is effective by starting out with the common ground. In a persuasive letter like this it is important to start with common ground between the person writing the letter and the person reading the letter. In this case, the beginning of the second paragraph serves as an introduction with the common ground. The end of the second paragraph introduces the problem, which is that the playground is causing several problems for the neighbors. Then the letter continues to be effective by specifically detailing each problem. I also think that this is effective because the writer of the letter numbers each problem. The numbering will be important later in the letter. Not only are the problems proposed in an organized manner, but also they are very detailed. Each paragraph starts out with the problem stated clearly. Then the writer delves into why each of the problems exists with specific examples and circumstances. Then after each problem is presented, the writer adds a personal touch to the letter. The writer mentions that they didn’t want to have to write the letter, but under the current living situation in the neighborhood he had to. The letter concludes in an effective manner as well. Since the problems were so detailed and those paragraphs were pretty lengthy it is important to reiterate in simple terms, what each of the problems were. The writer does this successfully by saying the problems again and using the same numerical organization as earlier in the letter. Finally, the last paragraph not only asks for action, but also it shows the writer is willing to further discuss the situation with the reader. Overall, I think that this persuasive letter was effective. However, I did notice one weakness. In a persuasive letter it is important to mention possible solutions and any additional benefits for the reader. This letter does not really mention either of those topics.
ReplyDeleteThe letter starts out with a good opener. It mentions the common ground (neighbors).The second paragraph sets up the problem without actually describing what it is. The middle paragraphs give detailed, factual and story based explanations of the problems. The problems were listed and numbered to make them easily seen as separate and set apart.The last paragraph asks for action. It numbers out the different actions that the writer wants taken care of and mentions that they can meet to further discuss action. The only thing that I feel is a negative of the letter is the fact that it has a strange tone. The tone throughout the whole letter was slightly off. The letter is easy on the eyes and easy to read overall
ReplyDeleteStrengths- Details in the problems and suggestions. They do keep communication open in the end, to an extent.
ReplyDeleteWeaknesses- I feel that the tone of the letter would really put the audience off. If I received this letter, I would be pissed and just give them a big eff you and leave the playhouse there. Also, it seems that using numbering lessens the audience's abilities. Again, the tone there is negative.
This letter is very effective in its detail, its organization, and its establishment of common ground. The specific times and dates are important to making the complaint immediate. I also think that since it is from two people, it makes the complaint more legitimate and will make the Jones family more likely to act. I'm glad they left communication open, though the tone is fairly final.
ReplyDeleteI feel like the tone is a little negative and could be made a little more positive seeing as they are neighbors. I think it is effective in getting the point across, it is good that they give specific times. The writer probably should not say things like we feel, shouldnt express your feeings.The letter is also pretty easy to follow.
ReplyDeleteThe letter makes several suggestions which are relevant to the neighbor and the community, not just to the writer. The letter begins by trying to strike common ground with the audience to suggest that they are both interested in a safe and pleasant community. I find it interesting that the letter states early that you regret having to write this--projecting upcoming bad news and setting a negative tone for what will be asked of the audience. Perhaps this is a weakness of the letter by highlighting this negativity and expressing negative emotions early in the letter. The letter suggests several alternatives which are reasonable and explains how each would help the situation.
ReplyDelete