Analyzing Academic Writing Sources

This assignment focuses on the critical evaluation of academic writing sources. Students are tasked with examining a provided list of references, assessing their credibility, identifying key structural elements, and analyzing the writing styles employed. The analysis should demonstrate an understanding of how to effectively evaluate and utilize academic sources for research and learning.

Business skills

TABLE OF CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION ..........................................................................................................................3
Task 1...............................................................................................................................................3
TASK 2 ...........................................................................................................................................6
a) Preparation of a CV in the relevant format .............................................................................7
b) Suitable cover letter ................................................................................................................8
TASK 3 .........................................................................................................................................10
CONCLUSION .............................................................................................................................12
REFERENCES .............................................................................................................................13
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INTRODUCTION
A diverse set of skills is to run a successful business. The various business skills include
communication skills, time management, delegation, goal setting, public speaking, relationship
building etc. (Dolton, Bondibene and Wadsworth, 2012). The present report consists of three
separate tasks. In the first task, a comparison has been done of two styles of newspaper articles.
While comparing the two articles, various criteria have been used. These include target audience
in each case, effect of writing style, effect of use of quotations and images on reader etc. Apart
from that, relative usefulness of each article has also been compared as a source of evidence in
support of an essay on Mediterranean refugee crisis. The second task comprises of a professional
CV and covering letter. In the third task, response to a newspaper article has been produced.
TASK 1
Article 1: refugees welcome? How UK and Germany compare on migration
Article 2: The human tide moving this way: Fury and fighting as rail station is closed to migrants
Writing styles of the two articles can be compared and contrasted.
Target audience
News styles encompasses vocabulary, sentence structure, information in terms of relative
importance, tone and intended audience. The two articles can be compared and contrasted on the
basis of these aspects. Apart from this, various characteristics are present in news articles which
are related to the intended audience. These include prominence, proximity, human interest,
consequence, timeliness. All aspects of a news paper article are influenced by the intended
audience (Evaluating Articles, 2015). The length and difficulty of article is determined by the
people who will be reading them (Carpenter, 2010). Both Article 1 and Article 2 are news
articles which are intended to cover a general audience with an interest in the news. Article 1
assumes that the audience has an awareness of the current events though not in – depth
knowledge of it. It focuses on the the issue of help required by refugees. Similarly, Article 2 also
focuses on the European migrant crisis. Both the articles assume that their intended audience has
awareness about the current migrant crisis in the world. Hence, these articles aim to provide
more information about the issue and highlight the extent of its severity.
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However, Article 1 uses more technical language and seems to be intended for an
audience that is well informed in the field of politics, legislations and other aspects such as
private engagement of refugees. It covers the conditions of refugees in two countries, United
Kingdom and Germany. The state of refugees in the two countries, their political and legal
aspects, all have been presented. As compared to this, Article 2 is intended to a general audience
with a interest in the news about refugees. Hence, it is more focused on a generalized audience as
compared to Article 1 which is focused on a specialized audience. Article 2 has been written in
an easy to understand language which could be interpreted by the general audience. However, in
contrast to this, Article 1 has been written in a more advanced and technical language.
Effect of writing style as a result of targeting the audience
Article 1 uses headline and subheadings. Each of the subsections of the article contains a
heading. In contrast to this, Article two makes use of only a headline. There are no subheadings
in the article. However, both the articles did not use billboard. Article 1 consists of lead. It is the
most important structural element of the article (Turabian, 2013). Essential facts of the story
have been presented in the lead. Similarly, lead is also present in Article 2. it is effective and
balances the ideal of maximum information. However, Article 1 uses a hard lead where a
comprehensive thesis has been presented which informs the reader about what the article will
cover. As compared to this, Article 2 uses a soft lead in which the topic has been introduced in a
more creative and attention seeking manner. It provides a brief summary of facts.
There are generally two styles of writing news paper articles namely, broadsheet
journalism an d tabloid journalism (Styles of Writing, 2015). Broad sheet articles is composed of
considered points of view. However, it conforms to an editorial style and perspective. It also
comprises of a political bias (Tomlinson, 2011). Article 1 uses broadsheet style of writing in
which the deductive style of reasoning as been used. There has been a logical progression of
points which are effective at conforming the original statement. Broadsheet articles play on
prejudices of the belief system of public (Schultz, Utz and Göritz, 2011). In contrast to this,
Article 2 comprises of tabloid style of writing. Tabloid newspapers are generally of two pages.
Article 2 contains photographs which are lacking in Article 1. also, the discussion in Article 2
seems to be less serious as compared to Article 1. in article 2, the news has been boldly stated
however, there is not much evidence provided to back it up. Moreover, as compare to Article 1, a
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less deductive language has been used in Article 2. also, the point of view has also been blatantly
stated.
It can be analysed that Tabloid style of writing used in Article 2 has a more
sensationalized impact on the target audience. It exaggerates the information about the refuges.
As compared to this, in Article 1 , the use of Broadsheet style of writing has a different impact
on the audience which is factual and formal (Birz and Lott, 2011). As Article 2 with a tabloid
style uses a catchy heading, it attracts the general public and arouses their interest in the news.
As compared to this, Broadsheet style of writing used by Article 1, attracts the groups in the
upper bound of the hierarchy.
Effect of use of quotations and images on reader
A number of quotes have been used in Article 1 as compared to Article 2. quotes are
written form of words which people have spoken (Biber and Gray, 2010). Use of quotes arouses
the interest of the intended audience in Article 1. this is because it reduces the risk of
misreporting. At the same time, it also makes the news reported by Article 2 more clear.
Moreover, reality is incorporated into the newspaper article as quotes allow to put the lively
language spoken by people directly into the story. It can be seen that article 1 uses a number of
quotes some of which are also partial quotes. It is not a good practice to put defamatory words in
quotes. This is because it does not offer legal protection (Richards and Schmidt, 2013).
Moreover, descriptive words can stand by themselves without using quotation marks. Moreover,
use of repetitive quotes in Article 1 tends to kill the story.
Images also effect the audience by increasing the readership of the article. As images are
used in article 2, it is more effective in engaging the readers. Images effect the reader by
communicating newsworthy messages (Bollegala, Okazaki and Ishizuka, 2010). It is able to
connect with the readers more by bringing them a feeling of what the issue was really like. Image
in the Article 2 also informs, educates and enlighten the readers. It depicts reality and hence
increases the capability of story. However, no images have been used in Article 1.
After comparing the two articles, it can be said that article 1 is nearer to the style of
writing which is used in Academic literature. Essential points have been clearly justified in this
Article. It is tedious to read as academic style however, at the same time it ensures that essential
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points are correctly interpreted (Reiff and Bawarshi, 2011). A clear and logical manner has been
used for writing the text in Article 1 which closely matches Academic style of writing.
Relative usefulness of each article
Both the articles are useful as a source of evidence in support of an essay on
Mediterranean refugee crisis. Article 1 provides evidence of the violent incidents that are
happening in Germany in relation to refugees. It provides information on various aspects related
to the refugee crisis. As compared to this, Article 2 also seems to be useful as a source of
evidence in support of Mediterranean refugee crisis.
TASK 2
A job search is to be conducted for the position suitable for the profile. For this, the
position of writer has been chosen for which I might apply. In this regard, the following have
been done:
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a) Preparation of a CV in the relevant format
CUURICULUM VITAE
Katherine P. Riley
PROFESSIONAL WRITER:
Technical writing, Business writing, Academic Writing
SUMMARY:
Talented and versatile writer, proficiency in technical communication, knowledge of
generating memos, press releases, manuals, reviews, letters, proposals, presentations and
business materials
CORE COMPETENCIES:
Proposal development, presentations, direct mail, sales promotions, editing, lead generation,
research reports, graphic design, brochures and newsletters
EDUCATION:
 Bachelor of Science, ABC College
▪ Double major in technical and Professional writing
▪ Minor in business
 Associate in Arts, XYZ University
▪ Honors every semester
▪ Concentration in business administration
ADDITIONAL EXPERIENCE
 Advertising director
 Desktop publishing programs
AWARDS AND CERTIFICATIONS
 National Scholars Honor Society
 Certificate for Achievement for completing education courses
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b) Suitable cover letter
Subject: Writing Position- Katherine P. Riley
I read your job posting with interest. Please find enclosed my CV with regards to the
application for the post of writer.
The nature of my degree course has been helpful in preparing me for this position. A
great deal of independent research was involved in this. Along with that, it also involved self
motivation, requiring initiative and a wide range of skills. For the course (Bachelor of Science)
there was a requirement of understanding of technical sector. This subject proved to be very
stimulating.
While working as representative for the college, I wrote feature articles for the website.
Along with that I also managed the content, presentations, manuals and reviews.
I also have experience as an advertising director. During the work period, I demonstrated
proficiency in technical communication. I also possess the skills for direct mail and sales
promotion. I managed the work of conducting press releases.
While gaining experience in Desktop publishing programs, I designed brochures and
newsletters. I also have experience in graphics design. I was also responsible for office
communications as well as correspondence.
Apart from that, I possess extensive experience in writing on a freelance basis. This, I
feel, would be an ideal match for this job position.
I am a fast and accurate writer. I possess a keen eye for detail. I am also quick at picking
up new skills and early learn from others. I would be very grateful to get an opportunity to
progress a a professional writer. I am capable of taking on the responsibility of the position
immediately. I also have the required enthusiasm and determination to ensure that I fulfil my
duties corresponding to this post.
I would be delighted at discussing any possible vacancy with you as per your
convenience.
If I can provide any further information about my background and qualifications, kindly let me
know.
I am looking forward to hearing from you.
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Thank you for taking the time and considering this application.
Yours sincerely
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TASK 3
According to Tory minister, workers who are under the age of 25 years do not deserve
living wage. The reason given behind this statement is that they are not productive. The
minimum wage details were announced in the summer budget. The minimum wage for the
workers under 25 years of age remain at £6.70 an hour. However, argument can be presented
against the views of Mr. Hancock. It would not be fair to detain the workers under the age of 25
years from living wage. Workers under 25 years of age are as entitled to pay rise as the rest of
the workforce (Bell and Blanchflower, 2011).
It should be noted that young people no longer remain dependent on their parents. They
set out to work and earn for themselves. This is a step taken by the young people to become self
dependent. Detaining them from the living wage would act as a demotivating factor for the youth
of the nation (Hock and Weil, 2012). During the course of becoming self dependent, young
people take up the responsibility of their expenses including the student fees. Most of the young
people hold on a job, whether full tine or part time. This is to obtain fund for their studies or for
getting extra pounds to enjoy beyond having the bare necessities of life. Cutting on their
minimum wage would prove to be an unfair and unjust step towards their growth and
development as a responsible citizen. Moreover, young people under 25 with families face great
deal of problems. This is because they are not only denied a pay rise but are also subjected to
planned cuts to tax credits (Ottaviano and Peri, 2012).
Young people below 25 years of age begin with their careers during this period. At this
point of time, the step of excluding them from the new higher minimum wage would give the
impression that they are less worthy as compared to the older adults (Dolton, Bondibene and
Wadsworth, 2012). This will be bad for their productivity. De-motivation emerging from this
step would bring huge costs to the nation in the form of uninspired youth, lack of dedicated
workforce, reduction the the strength of the manpower.
The step taken by the government is unfair on various grounds. Young people are as
much productive as the older people. It is worth noticing that a young home care worker has to
do the same job of caring for the client as is done by an older worker. The work also involves
giving the client medicines, helping him in his daily activities and protecting him from any harm.
It can be analysed that this work is as stressful for the young worker and involves as much risks
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as it is for any older care worker (Fowler, 2014). But, the young worker is not even getting the
minimum wage for the hard work, dedication and determination. Furthermore, the employment
rate of people under 25 years of age are growing twice as much as that of the older adults. On the
basis of this fact, they should not be excluded from the new higher rate. Doing so would be a
form of discrimination against the people below 25 years.
It is evident that a country grows and becomes creative with the hard work, determination
and new ideas of the young minds. Older workers dedicate their time, energy and knowledge for
building up the nation. They are also more experienced and help in the development of the
nation. However, these attributes can not be used for neglecting the contribution that young
people make to the workforce of the nation (Settersten and Ray, 2010). Young people are filled
with enthusiasm and bring new systems and processes of working within the organization. They
also believe in team work and are as effective in bringing coordination as are the older workers.
All these factors are important for the success of organizations. Contra opinion can be given
against the statement of Mr. Hancock because young people are capable of handling the same
responsibilities as older workers. They also have a learning attitude and can prove to be an asset
for the organization as well as the nation.
Living wage refers to an independent calculation of the amount that should be paid to a
person according to the basic cost of living in United Kingdom (Baten and et.al., 2010). The
government will set an example of age discrimination if it only includes people above 25 years
of age in the living wage. This is because if the other workers are being paid according to the
basic cost of living in the country, why are the younger workers not being paid the same when
they perform the same job as an older worker.
Moreover, in order to drive the nation forward towards the path of success, growth and
prosperity, it is necessary that the younger people become capable as the older adult. This can
only be possible if they are allowed to learn from the skills and experience of the older workers
(Ahituv and Lerman, 2011). By passing on their valuable experience and knowledge to the
younger workers, growth of the nation can be sustained. However, it can be critically evaluated
that as per the decision taken by Tory minister, the young would not be willing to work as
before. This is because they will not be paid enough for their hard work by excluding them from
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the minimum wage. Therefore, it will be a loss for the nation which will lose its productive
workforce.
CONCLUSION
From the report, it can be concluded that Article 1 is nearer to the Academic style of
writing. Article 1 depicts broadsheet style of writing. As compared to this, tabloid style of
writing has been adopted in Article 2 which consists of images as well. A number of quotes have
been used in Article 1 as compared to Article 2. Both the article seem to be useful as a source of
evidence in Mediterranean refugee crisis. Contra opinion has been presented towards the views
of Tory minister. Therefore, young workers under the age of 25 years should be included in the
living wage because they are as productive as the older workers.
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REFERENCES
Journals and Books
Ahituv, A. and Lerman, R. I., 2011. Job turnover, wage rates, and marital stability: How are they
related?. Review of Economics of the Household. 9(2). pp.221-249.
Baten, J. and et.al., 2010. Evolution of living standards and human capital in China in the 18–
20th centuries: Evidences from real wages, age-heaping, and
anthropometrics. Explorations in Economic History. 47(3). pp.347-359.
Bell, D. N. and Blanchflower, D. G., 2011. Young people and the Great Recession. Oxford
Review of Economic Policy. 27(2). pp.241-267.
Biber, D. and Gray, B., 2010. Challenging stereotypes about academic writing: Complexity,
elaboration, explicitness. Journal of English for Academic Purposes. 9(1). pp.2-20.
Birz, G. and Lott, J. R., 2011. The effect of macroeconomic news on stock returns: New
evidence from newspaper coverage. Journal of Banking & Finance. 35(11). pp.2791-
2800.
Bollegala, D., Okazaki, N. and Ishizuka, M., 2010. A bottom-up approach to sentence ordering
for multi-document summarization. Information processing & management. 46(1). pp.89-
109.
Carpenter, S., 2010. A study of content diversity in online citizen journalism and online
newspaper articles. New Media & Society. 12(7). pp.1064-1084.
Dolton, P., Bondibene, C. R. and Wadsworth, J., 2012. Employment, Inequality and the UK
National Minimum Wage over the Medium‐Term*.Oxford Bulletin of Economics and
Statistics. 74(1). pp.78-106.
Fowler, D., 2014. The first teenagers: the lifestyle of young wage-earners in interwar Britain.
Routledge.
Hock, H. and Weil, D. N., 2012. On the dynamics of the age structure, dependency, and
consumption. Journal of population economics. 25(3). pp.1019-1043.
Ottaviano, G. I. and Peri, G., 2012. Rethinking the effect of immigration on wages. Journal of
the European Economic Association. 10(1). pp.152-197.
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Reiff, M. J. and Bawarshi, A., 2011. Tracing discursive resources: How students use prior genre
knowledge to negotiate new writing contexts in first-year composition. Written
Communication. 28(3). pp.312-337.
Richards, J. C. and Schmidt, R. W., 2013. Longman dictionary of language teaching and applied
linguistics. Routledge.
Schultz, F., Utz, S. and Göritz, A., 2011. Is the medium the message? Perceptions of and
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Settersten, R. A. and Ray, B., 2010. What's going on with young people today? The long and
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Tomlinson, B., 2011. Materials development in language teaching. Cambridge University Press.
Turabian, K. L., 2013. A manual for writers of research papers, theses, and dissertations:
Chicago style for students and researchers. University of Chicago Press.
Online
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<http://www.li.suu.edu/research-tips/Evaluating-Articles.html>. [Accessed on 19
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Styles of Writing. 2015. [Online]. Available through:
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