Unit 7 Lesson 7 Evaluating formal writing
What elements should be included in formal writing? (hint: page 8/11 in Lesson 7!)
The elements that should be included in formal writing are:
1. Clear and concise language: Formal writing should use specific and precise language to convey ideas effectively. It should avoid jargon, slang, and colloquialisms.
2. Proper grammar and punctuation: Formal writing should be free of grammatical errors and follow the rules of punctuation. It should use complete sentences and appropriate sentence structures.
3. Formal tone: The tone of formal writing should be professional and objective. It should avoid personal opinions, emotions, and informal language.
4. Consistency: Formal writing should maintain consistency in writing style, verb tense, and formatting. It should use the same tense throughout the piece and follow consistent formatting guidelines.
5. Subject-specific vocabulary: Formal writing should incorporate specialized vocabulary relevant to the subject matter. It should use terminology that is commonly understood within the field of study.
6. Citing sources: If using outside sources, formal writing should include proper citations and a bibliography or works cited page. It should follow a recognized citation style such as APA or MLA.
7. Logical organization: Formal writing should present ideas in a logical and coherent manner. It should have a clear introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion, with each paragraph focused on a single main idea.
8. Avoidance of slang and biased language: Formal writing should avoid the use of slang and biased language that could potentially alienate readers. It should strive for inclusivity and neutrality.
9. Attention to detail: Formal writing should be carefully proofread and edited for spelling mistakes, typos, and other errors. It should demonstrate attention to detail and a commitment to producing high-quality work.