Alexis Vasquez-Morgan

Prof. Malcolm Campbell

UWRT 1103
September 14, 2016
SLO Translations
Rhetorical Knowledge
Having rhetorical knowledge is understanding how to utilize rhetorical and literary strategies in
writing consciously. This means choosing the proper words to form a description, taking time to
recognize differences in connotation and denotation, and placing these words into a sentence
with a structure conducive to the same meaning. As the original paper states, it is essential to
developing the flexibility that enables writers to shift voice, tone, formality, design, medium,
and layout intentionally to accommodate varying situations and contexts. This ties directly into
Critical Reading, which involves identifying the use of rhetorical and literary strategies while
reading in order to discern the writers intentions and understand the material on a deeper level.
Comprehension increases as critical reading increases. These skills work together to create a
more attentive writer and reader.
Composing Processes
When writing, it is essential to take the process in steps. It may seem effective to write one draft,
skim over for grammar mistakes, and then submit, but writing is greatly improved through the
addition of drafting and editing steps. The steps, however, will not be the same for everyone.
Some people prefer hand-written drafts and editing, while some prefer to do all the work on a
computer. Either way, writing a draft and allowing time for rereading is key to creating a
powerful piece of work. It allows for a deeper engagement with source material.
An example of this is this document. Because I needed to re-vamp my Rhetorical Knowledge
section for another part of the assignment, I had to reread and form the sentences into another
paragraph that portrayed the same idea. In all honestly, I think the second version encompasses
my ideas better, as I have given myself more time to become familiar with the topic.
Knowledge of Conventions
In writing, it is essential to understand the proper conventions that pair with a certain genre in
order to keep with its formality or informality. That is, using correct grammar and punctuation,
spelling correctly, and citing sources properlywhich is one of the most important in terms of
legal rights. All of these structural components influence content digestion, style, organization,
graphics, and document design.

Critical Reflection
Lastly, it is important to look back over writing and be able to point out where and why these
various strategies were used. This helps the writer grow through understanding, and reflecting on
work ensures that the thought is communicated effectively. Writers should be able to assess their
choices past simply saying that it sounded nice or that it looked like it fit. This is best done
through writing, because it allows for the reflection to tie directly into the current writing, which
cements it further into the writing process of the writer.