Email Writing

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One Last Reflection on the Course

Dear Dr. Henry,

I hope this email finds you well.

At the beginning, I thought that since I took the International Baccalaureate program, Rhet 1010 would be a walk in the park. What I was yet to realize is that I still had a lot to learn when it came to the basics of writing. Throughout the course, I learned how to better structure my essays. My introductions were weak but I understand now that the more I organize my thoughts and ideas, the stronger my introduction will be. I was never really a person who brainstormed; I would just sit down and write what I was feeling or thinking. This was probably why most of my previous papers lacked coherence and flow. Modal plans are truly great. They just make the writing process so much easier.

I have also learned that I have been doing in-text citations incorrectly all this time. I had a hard time accepting that, because I could not believe that my high school teachers were wrong. In the end, I think my biggest takeaway is a huge improvement in my writing skills. I am going to need to know how to write a paper for the rest of my college years, so this strong foundation that you have helped me build will definitely prove useful. If I choose a career that requires a lot of writing, these skills will be of great help. Who knows?

I can go on and on about the things I learned in this course like not using contractions in a paper or what an open thesis is, but the most important thing is that this course has made me aware of the importance of the small details. The tiniest details in one’s writing can make the biggest difference, and I have you to thank for teaching me that.

All the best,

XXXXXXX

Michelle Henry <mhenry@aucegypt.edu>

Dear XXXX,

I appreciate your willingness to engage in the writing process, an approach different from what you had been taught.

I reviewed your email according to the following criteria:

1. Demonstrates understanding of effective academic email writing overall (conventions): 15/15

2. Demonstrates good rhetorical choices (understanding of purpose, reader/writer position, and rhetorical appeals): You clearly expressed skills/knowledge that you will take with you: the importance of brainstorming, structuring, and proper citation in writing and attention to details. Your tone is also relaxed but respectful which is appropriate for this context. 15/15

3. The language is clear, concise, and appropriate: 15/15

4. Practices effective grammar/mechanics: (Some minor errors noted: had yet to realize instead of "was yet to realize"; comma needed between two independent clauses joined by "and"; no comma before "because") 4/5

Total Score: 49/50 or 98%

I just want to add that learning rhetoric is not just about teaching students how to write a paper for a class or for a job, but it is actually teaching you a habit of mind. If you have taken away the need to be precise and attend closely to details, and give yourself time to structure and process your ideas, then this is applicable to more than just writing in life.

Best of luck to you!

Michelle Henry

Department Chair

Rhetoric and Composition Department

Office Waleed P081 Phone Ext. 2067

The American University in Cairo

"Hardships often prepare ordinary people for an extraordinary destiny.

-C.S. Lewis.

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