Identifying Purpose and Audience
When you sit down to begin any writing task, there are two questions to ask yourself. The first is: What is the purpose of this writing task? (You could also think of this as, "Why am I writing?" or "What am I hoping to achieve by writing this?") The second question is: Who is my intended audience? (You could also think of this as, "Who is going to read this?"). These two factors are central to effective writing because they will shape how you approach the task. Follow the instructions to complete the activity on identifying your audience and purpose.
Look at the following writing scenarios. For each, determine the purpose of the writing. What is the writer wanting to accomplish? Then determine the audience. Who is this piece of writing intended for? What expectations and knowledge levels does this audience have? Lastly, for each scenario, discuss how purpose and audience are going to shape the task of writing. What sort of language should be used? What sorts of things need or don't need to be in the writing based on the expectations of the audience? How long should the piece of writing be to achieve your purpose? What else might you consider about the following writing tasks based on their purpose and audience?
- A sociology assignment to write a one to two page response that summarizes an article you read for class
- A letter to your Grandma
- A text message to a friend about plans for the night
- A cover letter for an internship you are seeking
- A history assignment to write an eight to ten page research paper that presents your position on a historic event
- A letter of complaint to a company that has ripped you off
- Lyrics to a song you hope to practice and perform with your band
- An English assignment to write a one page informal journal that can be about anything
- Notes for a college skills class assignment to put together a five minute presentation about how your strengths have helped you succeed in an activity from your past
- Directions to be printed on the invitations to your wedding
- A letter to a politician expressing how you would like them to vote on an upcoming bill
- A Facebook status update about a promotion at your job
Source: Erin Severs
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