Introduction:
Editing is not merely messing with someone else’s work; it’s an integral part of making sure that the written product is accurate, clear, and impactful. Bell (and I) divide editing into two phases: microediting (critiquing words and sentences for grammar, mechanics, and impact) and macroediting (critiquing paragraphs and story sections for coherence, logical flow, structure, and impact). And fact-checking is critically important. We will be studying peer edits as a means of learning how to edit ourselves.
Learning objectives:
- Refreshing knowledge of grammar, mechanics
- Understanding style, both conceptually and practically
- Editing peers with respect for their voice but commitment to clarity and coherence
- Perfecting one’s own work
Steps to completion:
Background:
- Bell, introduction and chapter 1
- Bell, chapter 2
- Microedit a classmate’s (I will assign) profile in a new file and share with me and the author. Try one of the techniques suggested by Bell. Did it make a difference? Would you do it again or try something else? Write a short blog post about the experience by Nov. 4 in the Module 9 category using the “microediting” tag.
- Macroedit a classmate’s (I will assign) profile in a new file and share with me and the author. Use the principles suggested by Bell as well as the checklist I will give you. Write a short blog post about the experience by Nov. 11 in the Module 9 category using the “macroediting” tag.
Reflective:
- Class discussion Nov. 1: Microediting
- Class discussion Nov. 3: Microediting practice
- Class discussion Nov. 8: Macroediting
- Class discussion Nov. 10: Macroediting practice
Exploratory
- Final drafts of news analysis and pick-em stories due Nov. 18.