Instructions in Assignments

Instructions in assignments are usually given with imperatives (command forms). Moreover, you may be given limits on how many subtopics you can have. Pay attention to such expressions as "two or three," "areas," "reasons," "causes," "effects," "similarities," differences," and other rhetorical terms which signal the method of development. Also, pay close attention to the use of and and or. And directs you to address all of the assignment tasks, but or directs you to make a choice. If the assignment is to make a choice, you must do so.

Here are some examples:

Discuss two or three reasons for ...

(You have a choice of two or three reasons. Do not discuss four.)

Analyze the causes and effects of ...

(You must discuss both the causes and effects.)

Discuss the advantages or disadvantages of ...

(You must choose advantages or disadvantages. Do not discuss both.)

Define "pecking order" and give examples ...

(You must not only define the term; you need to give examples as well.)

Read the model essay and answer the questions that follow.

(You must do both tasks: read the essay and answer the questions.)

Example of Assignment Analysis:

Because the laser is such a powerful device, some people used to fear it. However, recently, scientists have found that the laser has a variety of applications (lead-in). Discuss four important areas where lasers have been used to the benefit of society. Use specific and convincing examples and details to support your discussion (assignment task).

The lead-in in the above assignment shows two opinions about the laser:

• Some people fear the laser because it is powerful.

• The laser is a good device which has several uses.

The assignment task limits the focus to the second opinion, the benefits of the laser to society. The essay must explore four areas of life in which the laser has helped people, not why people may fear the laser. There must also be specific and convincing examples and details.

Ex. 7. Analyzing longer writing assignments.

On a separate sheet of paper, analyze each of the following assignments.

• Which part is the lead-in?

• Which part is the assignment task?

• What does the assignment require?

1. Self-respect is the respect people have for themselves. People’s success in life may depend on how much self-respect (self-esteem, self-regard) they have. How will having (or not having) self-respect help (or hinder) students in their academic pursuits? Discuss two or three ways self-respect (or the lack of it) can affect students' success. Provide specific support.

2. Studying in a university is challenging. Some students excel, some do an adequate job, but others fail. Why do some students do well? Discuss two or three major characteristics (qualities) of good students. Provide specific details, examples, and your own personal experience or that of someone you know.

3. Languages are living as long as they are spoken. Thus, they gradually change over time. Despite the fact that the English spoken today reflects current popular usage, contemporary grammar books still prescribe formal, standard rules which do not seem to apply to current usage. What problems, if any, does this create for you as a language learner? Discuss two or three problems with specific examples and details.

Ex. 8. Watch video aided instructions. Disk 9 «Avoiding Common Mistakes».

Ex. 9. Analyzing students’ essays.

Use the assignment and the Student Essays to answer the following questions.

Assignment: Computers have become an important part of educational process. Write convincing illustration to this statement. Use specific and convincing examples and details.

Student Essay 1