Research Activity 1: Identifying a Rhetorical Opportunity

Wow, I didnt know how hard selecting a topic for this would be. My first choice is not recommended. I believe everyone should take Judo and learn their falling techniques in order to prevent injuries. I personally have had several injuries; most of which could have been significantly less severe if I had understood and applied the falling techniques taught in Judo properly. This information would be beneficial to all age groups; because everyone walks and everyone has stumbled. Therefore, the rhetorical situation I would specifically address is how to prevent injuries by falling properly. I bet most people didnt even know there was a better way to fall! I suppose that my research should begin with the Founder of Judo, Jigoro Kano and how he developed such effective techniques. Then, I would expand that to the dojo I attend and speak with other Judokas and our Judo Professor. The specifics I would be looking for are the helpfulness of the falling techniques. Do people use them outside of the dojo? How helpful are they in the dojo? How young/old could someone be to learn and practice these techniques? I have been a volunteer instructor for our kids classes for a while. I feel that I know the answers to these questions, but I am always interested in the input of other people. I feel very lucky to have walked into a dojo specializing in Judo. I had no idea the many ways that the sport would transform my entire life. Now, when the ground trips me, I dont let it smack me in the face, too! Before and after practicing Judo or engaging in a match, opponents bow to each other. Bowing is an expression of gratitude and respect. In effect, you are thanking your opponent for giving you the opportunity to improve your technique. Jigoro Kano

Write for five P. 296-297

The first reaction that I have when I receive a writing assignment is worry. I worry about how long its going to take me to finish, or if I will finish or feel good about the final product come the due date. I worry that my grade will not accurately reflect my efforts because I was unable to accurately convey the material, regardless of my comprehension. I worry that an emergency will happen and I wont be able to finish at all. I worry about the subject matter. If I can select my own topic or subject, this is usually another cause for concern. In the past I have selected topics that have been completely contrary to what my professors have expressed with regards to their beliefs and opinions. This doesnt happen on purpose, we just have had differing opinions. The bottom line, however, is that I write for me. I have not and do not plan to write a paper just to placate a professors stance or opinion. Therefore, I worry that this difference in opinion (at times) could result in a lower grade regardless of the quality of work. What I look for in a writing assignment are the required parameters. The questions I ask are: when is it due, is there a required minimum length, formatting or font size requirements and most importantly the topic; has the topic been selected for me or can I select my own. I would dare to say that I start on a paper the moment I find out about it. This is usually the time that I start stressing about it. Once all of the above mentioned questions have been resolved I try to start the

outward work (the actual typing, researching & formatting) right away. I have two kids, so you never know when something is going to happen. If Im not ahead on my coursework, I will end up behind. The Kinds of writing I do regularly: Work Related: I write inner office e-mails I write instruction sheets on how to complete tasks. School Related: I write letters to my kids teachers I write assignments for school. Each professor requires a different style & format. Personal: I text when I have to, but I tend to prefer Voxer or my talk to text feature. Almost all of these require some type of electronic delivery. There are few exceptions. One of my professors requires that I type my assignments, but hand deliver them and provide a verbal explanation. The other, is when I write a letter to my kids teachers. I actually like to do that. I have black stationary and I write with a white pencil. Then I seal the envelopes with a red wax seal. Needless to say, regardless of what the letter inside says, I already have their attention!