EDIT504
Plain Language Principles
Plain language is the key to effective communication, allowing communicators to get the most important information to the right people as clearly and as effectively as possible.
As we learn to use plain language, we must adhere to standards and practices in writing outlined by the plain language field. We also need to be sensitive to the issues of literacy and empower people who may have been discriminated against or sidelined by a tangle of “bureaucratese.”
This course will introduce you to the basics of preparing materials that are clear and understandable. Whether you work on public documents, books, articles, forms, or web material, the process is the same.
Topics include understanding your purpose and audience, doing the research, writing and editing skills for plain language, and plain language design.
This course is available at the following time(s) and location(s):
| Section | Session(s) | Date/time* | Campus | Instructor(s) | Cost** | Registration |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| EDIT504-VA11371 | 3 | Thursdays Nov 21–Dec 5, 2013 9:30 am–12:30 pm |
Van | Ruth Wilson | $310 | Register |
* This course involves 9 instructional hours.
** Members of the Editors' Association of Canada are eligible for a 10 percent discount. Please contact us to confirm your membership and register. You may not combine discounts.
What will I learn?
By the end of the course, you will be able to do the following:
- Understand how and why written communication can break down
- Define and understand the importance of plain language
- Identify problematic words and phrases and test documents for plain language effectiveness
- Develop a process for plain language writing and editing on the job
- Recognize and use design elements that can contribute to plain language, including effective headings and subheadings, point form, and lists
- Define the audience and purpose of a document
- Organize information clearly for readers
- Write clear, direct, and short sentences and paragraphs, eliminating unnecessary words and phrases
- Use active verbs and words with clear meaning
How will I learn?
- Lectures
- Class discussions
- Group assignments
- Exercises (in-class)
- Independent in-class writing assignments
- Extra reading
How will I be evaluated?
Your grade will be based on the following:
- Self and peer evaluation exercises
- Assignments, reports, and projects
- Participation
- Final exam (100%)
Textbooks and learning materials
We will provide custom course materials.