ENCS 282 - Coursepack

Technical Writing
and Communication
Mary Silas
FSC
www.fsc.org
MIX
Board from
responsible sources
FSC® C084334
coursepack #
CONCORDIA UNIVERSITY
FACULTY OF ENGINEERING AND COMPUTER SCIENCE
TECNICAL WRITING AND COMMUNICATION
ENCS 282
COURSEPACK
(c) copyright
authorized by:
Professor M. Silas
1
TABLE OF CONTENTS, NOTEPACK ENCS282
Areas of style 3
Presentation styles 11
Hard copy styles 17
Electronic styel 21
Technical writing style 25
Report writing procedure, six questions 29
Organization and transition 31
Beginning and ending reports 40, 104
Definitions 45
Mechanism description 51
Process description 71
Instructions 85
Dedicated/designated informal reports 91
Solution reports 103
Proposals 110,119
Formal reports 115
Referencing 129,135
Library orientation 141
Abstracts 142
Visuals 149
Risk 153
Oral reporting 155
Press release 163
Letters and memos 173
Resumes 183
Interviews 187
Sample pages 195
2
AREAS AND PRESENTATION STYLES
3
4
STYLE
TYPES
informative
affective
LEVELS
formal
informal
colloquial
USING STYLE AS A STRATEGY
diplomatic style which appeals
negative style which repels
AUDIENCE
CONSIDERATION IN CONTENT
highly technical
semi-technical
non-technical
5
TECHNICAL WRITING STYLE
Demonstrates
appropriate, expository tone, business style, elegant, precise

appropriate level, formal or informal depending on audience
specific, concrete words that cannot be misinterpreteq
emphasizes fact, stats, measurable data
mechanical perfection
objectivity
Avoids
"emotion and emotionally charged words

sarcasm, irony, humour
liberal use of first and second person pronouns
contractions
slang, jargon, colloquialisms
sentence fragments, run-ons, mechanical errors
unsubstantiated personal opinions and bias
6
CONTENT, LEVELS OF TECHNICALITY
Highly technical message
Specialized readers expect highly technical data with technical terms

"auscultation and electrocardiogram revealed a massive cardiac infarction and
pulmonary edema marked by pronounced cyanosis"
Semi-technical message
Less qualified or specialized readers expect data to be explained and interpreted

"examination by stethoscope revealed a massive failure of the heart accompanied by
fluid buildup in the lungs producing a cyanotic discolouration of the lips and fingertips"
Non-technical message
Readers with little or no training in the field expect technical data to be translated into the
simplest terms
"heart sounds were abnormal indicating a massive heart attack; lungs were swollen with
fluid and lips and fingertips showed a bluish discolouration"
7
STYLE LEVEL
FORMAL suggests expertise
Long involved sentences

Rhetoric, rolling parallels, periodic phrasing
Extensive vocabulary
Impersonal tone
Conservative grammar
Serious, dignified attitude toward subject and reader
"respected dignitaries"
INFORMAL suggests forthrightness
Less involved sentences without looseness of colloquialisms

Informal without familiarity
Conventional language, elegance, simplicity
Serious
No contractions or slang
"very important persons"
COLLOQUIAL suggests neighbourhood friendship
Used for speaking informally to equals

Short simple sentences
Fragments, contractions
Avoidance of learned words
Simplified grammatical construction
Personal or familiar tone
"big shots"
8
FORMAL INFORMAL colloquial
Vocabulary Often abstract. The language of Casual. everyday";
technical. educated persons; usually concrete;
specialized; no .nonspecialized; some slang. collo-
contractions or balance of ab- quial expressions.
colloquialisms stract and con- and contractions
crete; readily
understood
Sentence All sentences Complete sen- Short. simple
·and complete; sentences Df varying sentences; some
Paragraph teilces usually length; para- sentence frag-
Structure long. complex; graphs vary in ments; short
par~graphs fully length, put often paragraphs
developed. often short
at length
Tone Impersonal, Varies to suit Conversational,
serious; often message and pur- casual; sounds
instru ctional pose of writer . like ordinary
speech
Typical Legal documents; Most of what we Personal letters;
Uses some textbooks; read: newspapers, some fiction;
academic writing; magazines. some newspapers;
scientific reports novels, business much advertising
correspondence
9
Legal Responsibility ------- Precluding Litigation
Truth and sales. Tell the truth and lose a sale? Tell 'selective' truth and land up in cowi?
Describing any product and omitting a small detail may be libellous. Employing
camouflage language may be libellous.
Avoid language that may land you in court.
Be aware of the rights of others and of your own rights. Be aware of laws.
Investment information:
Laws exist to protect investors.
Any messages, letters, pamphlets, reports, must be free of misleading information,
exaggerations, half truths. Even inadvertent misinformation is liable. No company can,
for example, ensure that their funds are guaranteed to bring a certain percent, or are
recession proof; hence, no matter how deeply an investment fIrm believes in its product,
and no matter how badly the fIrm wants to market the product, the brochure may not
promise specifIc returns.
Safety information:
A manufacturer is responsible for injury by a product with a defect caused by either the
manufacturing process· or the product's design.
Potentially dangerous products: manufacturers are obligated to wam consumers of any
risks involved in their products. These warnings must not only suggest danger but must
clearly indicate how the product must be used safely.
In composing warnings, the writer should concentrate on major points and omit non-
critical items. Describe potential problems and indicate how to solve them.
Clearly written safety messages use simple language and non-technical terms or terms
with defmitions or explanations attached.
Effective safety messages can include bullets, highlights and bolding to improve
readability .
Marketing. information:
Sales and marketing messages are illegal if they exaggerate quality or performance or
falsely advertise prices, or pretend the product has features that are not there. Marketing
messages cannot deceive the buyer in any way. The law says that misleading advertising
is publicity that is materially misleading; that is, if an ad suggests untruths or half truths,
it is material. The courts look at the general impression of the publicity as well as the
literal meaning. The language must not promise more than intended. Before the courts,
letters and reports that describe products or services are viewed as contracts.
Human resources information:

The workplace with employee evaluations and reviews, is full of potential litigation.
When evaluating employees avoid unsubstantiated negative comments; avoid subjective
judgements. Concentrate on specifIc incidents, like late arrivals, missed deadlines.
Avoid promissory phrases in job ads and application forms and offer letters; phrases that
suggest pelmanent employment, guaranteed job security, promotion, even casually given,
can be interpreted as contracts.
10
PRESENTATION STYLES
11
12
EXAMPLES OF TECHNICAL WRITING AND READING PERTINENT TO
ENCS 282 STUDENTS
WRITING PRESENTATION STYLE READING
1. ACADEMIC
exam questions informal and formal reports texts, journals

academic papers
2. BUSINESS
letter applying for job letter, memo, informal and letter reply
letter applying for formal reports requirments
graduate study
letter accepting interview
periodic report, progress report inter-office memo
job description for department head meeting or
conference agenda
description of product being manufactured
for company records (mechanism description,
informational report)
description of product or process for evaluation industrial journals
(mechanism or process
description, informational manuals
report) accompanying
comparison study of products (feasibility study) products
recommendation for mayor or city council or environmental groups
3. INTERFACE
article for newspaper informal reports newest developments

ad
explanation for buyer
description of product for publicity
4. TOOLS
notes from 282 informal and formal dictionaries

reports specifications
282 requirements
government specs
13
14
HARD COpy STYLES
15
16
GUIDELIHES FOR CHOOSIHG THE APPROPRIATE FORM FOR YOUR
PROJECT REPORTS
Form Frequency Audience Content
Memo or Frequent intervals Your immediate Brief lists or the tasks
Letter (weekly or sll(1ervisor or your accomplished du ri ng the
monthly) customer work period and any
associated costs. (Limited
comments included.)
Informal Whenever some Your supervisor Overview of the current
Report discussion of the or your customer status of the project.
project and tasks (Normally, formal report
undertaken during components are not
the work period is required.)
required
Formal At the completion Upper manage- Detailed discussions of work
Report of.a major project ment or your completed and undertaken,
customer's any problems encountered,
management and the general outcome of
the proJect. (Formal report
components ·and headings
included..)
17
18
ELECTRONIC PRESENTATION STYLES
19
20
WEB PAGE DESIGN
Although the basic rules of typography are much the same for both web pages and
conver:Jtional print documents, type on screen and type printeQ on paper are different in
crucial ways:
Printed Document computer Screen
Content
Tabs, dividers, indexes, No need for tabs, indexes, etc.,
pagination or pagination;
give direct, parallel access hyperlinks and search capabilities
to sections/subsections give access
introduction and clear organization organize material to expose maximum
and conclusion number of hyperlinks, especialy
at the top level:
Links should be dearly visible when
page is loaded, or
top page should give clear indication
that other links exist through scrolling
Form
clear to read lower resolution, harder to read
one strength margin to margin long lines of text become
blurred at the edges
original appears in true form no guarantee how print will appear
on reader's screen, as different
browsers and different computers
project images differently
Therefore:
use same typeface and font 1. keep choice of type simple and readable
for the same level of heading 2. do not mix and match too many typefaces
3. anything under 12 is hard to read
4. links serve the purpose of headings, so
use same typeface and font for the same
level of heading
21
22
CHARACTERISTICS OF TECHNICAL WRITING
23
24
TECHNICAL WRITING
DEFINITION
Technical writing is the branch of literature that communicates scientific or technical

matter, from a thesis to a news article.
CHARACTERISTICS
Tone is expository
Centers around an unknown
Tends to be fonnal or elegant informal
25
26
REPORT WRITING PROCEDURES
27
28
SIX BACKGROUND QUESTIONS
1. WHAT is the subject and WHAT are the conditions surrounding the subject?
2. WHY is the subject considered important to investigate? WHY did the subject
develop?
3. WHO is concerned with the subject?
4. WHERE is the subject located?
5. WHEN did the subject become of interest? WHEN did the situation originate?
WHEN did the situation terminate?
6. HOW did the situation develop? HOW will the subject be used
29
REPORT WRITING PROCEDURES
I.RESTRICTION
Out of the broad subject area, like nuclear physics, the environment, oceanography, select
one, narrow, significant, subject for.treatment, like lead aprons, the use of hair spray, sea
moss. WHAT
2. PURPOSE
Decide for what reason you are examining the subject, and indicate, in a thesis statement,
which often becomes sentence one in the text, precisely what the report purposes to do.
WHY
3. DIVERSlFICATION
Jot down ideas, in any order,supporting the thesis statement, by one or more methods of
development, alsoanswering the six background questions.
WHAT, WHERE, WHEN, WHO, HOW
4. CLASSIFICATION
Decide headings; arrange ideas under headings in logical sequence or order; correct
imbalances. Number into outline; convert to formal outline if necessary.
5. TITLE AND DRAFf
30
ORGANIZA1"ION AND METHODS OF TRANSITION
31
32
HEAT TRANSFER
Heat is energy. It is the energy that warms our bodies and our
houses and our food. The process of heating is the movement of
energy from a warmer uni t to a cool er uni t. This transfer of
energy happens in one of three ways. Transference of heat may take
place by conduction, by convection, or by radiation.
Conduction is the method of heat transfer that takes place when
there is a difference in temperature between two touching objects
or two ends o~ parts of a long or large object. Molecules in the
warmer unit or part move faster than molecules in the cooler unit
or part, causing adjacent molecules to speed up and thus heat,
until the temperatures are equal. When the tip of a metal poker in
a fireplace becomes hot, the heat will soon travel up the shaft and
into the handle which is not touching the fire at all. All
substances conduct some heat, but some are better conductors than
others. Metals are good conductors because heat transfers readily
from one molecule to another. Water is a conductor but generally
liquids and gases make poor conductors because the molecules make
little contact to pass on the energy. Glass, plastic, and wood act
as insulators because their molecules transfer energy slowly.
While molecules in liquids and gases do not conduct heat very well,
liquids and gases transfer heat very successfully by convection.
Convection is the upward flow of mases ·of liquid or gas as they are
heated from below. Air· rises above a hot radiator because the hot
radiator causes the air above it, to expand, to become less dense
and thus lighter, and therefore to rise. Hot air furnaces warm by
convection because air is heated and forced into a room in which
the air is cooler, forcing the cool out and replacing it with
warmed ai r , and drawing the cool er ai r into the furnace to be
heated. Winds and ocean currents are examples of convection
working in nature.
Radiation is the emission of energy. All objects emit or give off
radiation. When two objects are near each other but not touching,
the one that is warmer will give off more energy than the one that
is cooler, transferring energy until the temperatures adjust. Rays
from the sun carry warmth to the earth and when they hit·it, they
heat it. In heat transfer by radiation, not all the radiated heat
is absorbed; some is reflected. Light colours reflect more energy
than dark colours. Shiny surfaces reflect more energy than dull
ones. Unlike conducted and convected heat, radiated heat passes
through a vacuum.
Temperature affects matter. Heat transfer occurs by conduction, by
convection, or by radiation. This transfer is subject to two
conditions. Heat is transfered only when there is a disparity.
The flow of heat is always from hot to cold.
33
ORGANIZATION
PARAGRAPH TITLE SHORT REPORT
INTRODUCTION
One sentence announcing idea, attracts reader One paragraph announcing

point, purpose intent idea, point and purpose of
report,
WHAT? overviewing body of details
(itself formed of intro, body
and closing)
BODY
Several sentences supporting educates reader several paragraphs supporting

Introductory sentence with content point and purpose introduced
Specifics in paragraph one, each paragraph
HOW itself composed of intro, body
And closing
CONCLUSION
One sentence briefly reviewing directs reader One paragraph briefly reviewing
point and purpose announced outcome point and purpose introduced
in intro; NO NEW IDEAS. in paragraph one, briefly reviewing
SO WHAT material in body; itself composed
of intro, body, closing. thus ending
with a closing sentence giving the
point of the report. NO NEW
IDEAS.
34
INTERNAL ORGANIZATION OF BODY OF MATERIAL
The details within the body of a paragraph must run in a logical sequence or order.
1. General to specific! specific to general: general statement to specific detail or specific detail to
general statement
2. Spatially: from inside to outside, left to right, near to far, etc.
3. Chronologically: like a process
4. Frequency of occurrence
5.. Cause to effect: like a lab report
6. Classification: all details about the Compaq, then all details about the Mac; or details about
diskettes in both, then details about hard drives in both, then details about printers in both, etc.
7. Size: large to small or small to large
8. Importance, most to least or least to most
9. Logical sequence, grad studies, then u[Jdergrad studies, then pre-requisite studies, etc.
10. Others
35
TRANSITIONS
METHODS OF TRANSITION
Transitions offer relations between ideas
Four ways exist to link ideas within a paragraph; these may also be used between paragraphs
1. PUNCTUATION: ? : -
2. REPETITION OF IDEA: The habits of animals are fascinating. Most wild beasts ...
3. REPETITION OR WORD OR PHRASE: Many fur-bearing beasts hibernate. Fur is a great

insulator. Animal hides protect. ..
4. TRANSITIONAL WORDS OR PHRASES: Transitional words or phrases indicate a link:

and, but, furthermore, because, if, first, next, last... these terms carry no information but indicate
what to do with the information following
A void putting transitional words and phrases first in the sentence

Offer the particular transitional word or phrase that gives the relationship you want.
36
TRANSITIONAL WORDS AND PHRASES
Signal the reader
Time: as soon as, while, immediately, after, before, when, at that time, then, etc.
Order: first, second, next, second to last, last, final
Restatement (for clarity, for emphasis): this, these, that is, such as, in other
words, indeed, in fact, etc.
Cause-effect: because, as a result of, for this reason, therefore, reasons for,
causes of, consequently, etc.
Concession: even though, although, despite, nevertheless, however, etc.
Adding-on: moreover, also, another, one interesting feature, etc.
37
4.a)Tnmsitional sentences - opening
The opening sentence of a paragraph introduces the point
the paragraph is making; it may also serve to tie a new paragraph to the
preceding one.
ego -Montreal universities serve their community. They offer a

wide range of academic interests, they encourage participation in healthy
physical acticities, they lend themselves to social functfons, and they open
the'ir doors to the community at lerge.
Montrealers from the whole city are fortunate that a greet

variety of acedemic programs exist. Arts, science, commerce engineering,
education, linguistics and many, many others offer a range of programs.
Degrees are, moreoyer, eYai1eble through day end evening courses and
different entnJ programs facilitate registration into higher learning.
Besides meintaining high academic standards, Montreal"s academia

is interested in developing members of a community healthy in mind and
body. It permits students a range of individual or team sports where
coaching and good facilities promote joining.
4.b)Transitional sentences - closing

The last sentence of e paragraph serves as summing up: it
may olso sert'e to prepare the reader for the up coming paragraph.
ego ... It permits students a range of indiYidw~l or team sports where

coaching and good facilities promote joining. Good company has always
been a hallmark of university poracurriculer activities.
Campuses have always encouraged a healthy social atmosphere.

Clubs, SOCieties, dances, lounges create an tamosphere conduciye to
meeting and making friends.
38
5.Transitional paragraphs
Ordinary paragraphs should not contain fewer than five
sentences. Once in a while a dramatiC, unusual, one-sentence paragraph
may be used to link two widely divergent paragraphs that must for various
reasons follow each other.
ego ·Something else however was coming my way.-
-I· was little prepared for what was to come.-
-rhese plans fai1eed. The next succeeded:
-So this phase of our trip proved to be a cpomplete waste of our

time and of company money. A phase that was definitely not a waste of
time was our tour of the Good Samaritain Clinic's radiology department:
Ihe 244 spray must be considered effective in controlling

butter print and hogweeds. The final spray tested, 337, is apparently even
better.-
-In chapter 1 and other early chapters we have given blief

accounts of the fusion process, pile operation, and chemical preparation.
We shall njl_w review these topics from a somewhat different pOint of view
before describing the plutonium production plants themselves:
39
:WAYS TO OPEN INFORMATIONAL BUSINESS REPORTS
1. GENERAL SUBJECT-NARROWED TO.SPECIFIC
Bank mergers are an irreversible trend. The merger of the
Scotia Bank with the National, Victoria and ·Grey Trusts was to be
expected. The amalgamation offers assets in excess of ...
2. SPECIFIC BROADENED TO GENERAL
The pothol e at the corner of Peel ·and Ste. Catherine is more
than an inconvenience; it is a danger. Potholes in Montreal have
reached the point where traffic accidents due to their dimensions
are inevitable.
3. A DEFINITION OF THE CONCEPT TO B~ DISCUSSED
Partition is the concept of separating from a secessionist
sta:-te with the "goal "of remaining in the original dominion.
4. A STARTLING STATEMENT
Cregi- t .s;:..a.l:d__ cOT[Qanj ~~. are .sociall v orient"ed. benevol ent
i.nswti!:u\.) 9ItS. of
The 'pra9tice ofcllar'gi"nq hundreds ()fp';-r - ceI}.~s
interest is offset by their point of view that without 'credi t a
great segment of the population would fail to enjoy many of the
comforts they nOH do ..
5. A WIDELY HELD POINT OF·VIEW STATED THEN DENIED OR DISPUTED
We Quebecers think we are a technologically advanced people.
In actuality we are a third world country selling our' na·.tural
resources for the high technology of the industrialized world
6. A .~~ILIAR QUOTAT~o.~
A fool and his money are soon parted. The commercial failure
of Offshore Investment Inc. was widely forecast.
7. DESCRIPTION LEADING TO THESIS
~he mumicipality had already lost a major professional sports
team and. was in danger of losing still another. Discussions to
~uild various sports installations had been going on for years. In
1'9'98 Montreal was offered the chance to build a key oUtd.oor
~~adium, one that would keep the Expos in the city. The matter of
tax dollars to support a .private stadium is both a fiscal and a
social matter.
8. A QUESTION THE REPORT WILL ANSWER
Will Quebec even consider a flat tax? The flat tax, a new
concept, is a basic tax for all wage earners, with no deductions,
except the personal one, and that one greater for low wage earners.
40
ENDING A REPORT
1. FULL CIRCLE
"To be or not to be" reflects man's cry of desperation.
2. SUMMARY, REPETITION OF MAIN POINTS OF BODY
The new breed of mother values her freedom. She works and
manages job and horne satisfactorily. She is young enough to be
energetic and old enough to act with experienced discretion. She
has no intention to compromise.
3. DEMONSTRATION OF SIGNIFICANCE OF THESIS BY PREDICTION,

WARNING, ADVICE, OFFER OF SOLUTION, SUGGESTION OF ALTERNATIVE,
HYPOTHESIS OF RESULTS
If we value the high quality of our live we had better be

prepared to make a profound attitudinal shift.
41
WAYS TO OPEN SOLUTION REPORTS
PROBLEM-SOLVING REPORT& RECOMMENDATION, PROPOSAL,

FEASIBILITY, INVESTIGATIVE. OTHERS
1. States problem, rejects one solution, proposes another
The spread of AIDS among teenagers indicates an increase in

sexual activity, not a decrease. We have not reversed the process
so we must concentrate on a cure.
2. States problem, proposes complex solution
Computer viruses cause billions of dollars worth of losses.

Experts are trying to create a "cure" virus which will find and
eliminate the "bug".
3. Problem is a request for knowledge.
Global warming is not proceeding as expected. No one

understands why, least of all meterologists.
4. States problem but report is solution oriented, signals the

solution.
Prevention of lung cancer by legislation and education is our

goal.
5. States problem, report is solution oriented, emphasizes the

solution by position and signal.
By educating our youth we can control AIDS.
6. States problem, solution oriented, different emphasis by

position and signal.
To control AIDS we must educate.
7. Solution oriented, signals the problem.
A systemic analysis will enable biologists to identify mutant

decomposants.
(Signal.s of sol utions suggest "how" ... "helps, enables, triggers,

causes, results in."
CAUSE-ORIENTED
(ANALYTICAL)
8. States problem, analyses causes.
Analysts are - beinning to understand the causes - of this

recession.
42
OBSERVATION· REPORTS
(FIELD REPORTS, LAB REPORTS, MEDICAL REPORTS, OTHERS)
9. Giv~s observation, analyses.
Conversion of fores~ed land to agrlcuiture is often the result
of severe economic pressure.
RESEARCHED REPORTS
10. Gives research data, contrasts still more researched data.
A variety of theories exist as to whether man descended from
the ape or with the ape. Newly ~iscovered. fossils suggest one of
these theories may have a broader scientific basis than previously
supposed.
43
WAYS TO CLOSE SOLUTION REPORTS
1. Full Circle
AIDS is a disease that has reached 910bal numbers. I t is
always fatal. If education has not achieved prevention the
solution has to come from research.
2. Summary
'AIDS is a global disease of epidemic proportions. It is
always fatal. Educational programs have not achieved their desired
results. Teenagers ,are more sexuallY ac~ive ~nan ever since ~ne
prevention programs began. Funding has been poured into services
to little avail. Focus must be directed to a cure.
3. Suggestion/Directive
AIDS is a disease of global proportions and prevention
programs have not resul ted in contro'll ing the sexual acti vi ty of
teenages. Funding for such programs should be diverted into
searches for a cure.
to
44
Definitions
45
46
Mechanism Definitions
Article Class Aggearance Function
plywood material thin sheets of building

wood glued
together
hyperdermic medical composed of a to introduce
needle device hub, cannula medication
and a point into the body
Plywood is a building material composed of thin sheets of wood glued together.

Anaesthetics of drugs of various appearances causing unconsciousness or insensibility
to pain.
Hypertext connects related pieces of information in a computer so that the user can
move to new locations in the information space by following the connecting liks.
47
Technical Process Definitions
Name Class Description/Appearance Purpose/Function
Navigation electronic clicking on indicated moves to new locations

manoevre links
Navigation is the electronic manoevre by which a user moves to new locations in the
information space by clicking on indicated links.
Double poling is a skier's raCing movement characterized by identical poling motions on

both sides of the body.
Selecting is the office management process of retrieving only certain records in a table in
a relational database system.
Kerning is a typesetting practice of nudging letters together selectively to improve

spacing giving the illusion of equal spacing between letters.
Solar heating employs sunshine to warm liquid stored in solar collectors.
Boiling meat is food preparation involving submersion of ingredients in water heated to

212 degrees Fahrenheit.
Alignment is the adjustment of the four wheels on a car so that they track in the same
direction
48
TECHNICAL VARIATION
Formal definition: a screwdriver is a shaftlike tool with a shaped

tip used to torque screws.
By aposition: a screwdriver, a shaftlike tool with a shaped

tip used to torque screws, forms an essential
part of a carpenter's tool box.
By relative clause: a screwdriver, which is a shaftlike tool with

a shaped tip used to torque screws, forms an
essential part of a carpenter's tool box.
49
Definitions
Examples:
Hypertext connects related pieces of information in a computer so that the user can
move to new locations in the information space by following the connecting links.
Fish eye vieWs increase the user's sense of location in an information space by showing
great etail for those part of the spce close to the user's current location of tnterest and
gradually diminishing amounts of details for those parts progressively further away.
Deep frying is food preparation in which ingredients are submerged in boiling' oil.
Definition Assignment
Write definitions for the following terms:
A ballpoint pen
A sheet of paper
A table
A keyboard
A pair of pliers
Painting a wall
Washing a car
Booting a computer
Completing a census form
Taking an exam
50
MECHANISM DESCRIPTION
51
52
TECHNICAL WRn-ING
in all its forms - informal reports, formal reports, letters, memos- is either about
GOODS -------------------------------------------------TH INGS
or
SERVICES -------------------------------------------- ACTIONS, ACTIVITI ES
GOODS -- concrete things like bridges, pens, dams, ladders, birdhouses
-- abstract things like standards, insurance, seniority, absence
SERVICES -- concrete procedures like changing oil, filling cracks, booting a computer
opening a dam, building a bridge
-- abstract procedures like solving a problem, making a decision
THE DESCRIPTION OF GOODS IS CALLED MECHANISM DESCRIPTION
even when the goods are abstract concepts
THE DESCRIPTION OF SERVICES OR ACTIONS IS CALLED PROCESS
DESCRIPTION
even when the actions are mental procedures
53
Technical Description
ENCS 282 -- Technical Description
The purpose of this assignment is the development of skills in presenting technical information in
an organized manner. Technical descriptions are an important component of the writing you will
do on a regular basis as an engineer. They require you to observe an object or process closely and
determine the best way to describe it.
A technical description explains an object, a mechanism, substance, organism, or system. The
information contained in a description should be verifiable and objective. Titles of technical
descriptions must be clear and limiting, and the format must conform to designated standards.
A. Technical Description of a Mechanism at Rest

Mechanism: An apparatus or device that has several identifiable parts which function
together as a system.
This description emphasizes physical characteristics and is written in precise, specific, and
technically accurate terms. For this assignment you will be provided with a mechanism which has
at least three parts. Only parts are to be numbered, not introduction or conclusion.
Some general guidelines:
Title: Physical Description of a (mechanism) at Rest
Introduction: Give a formal sentence definition of the mechanism, purpose and some
background information.
Parts Breakdown: A numbered parts breakdown must be provided giving the major and minor
parts, appropriately titled according to their functions. Parts Description: Each part heading will
be then described according to the following list of characteristics: Function, Placement, Color,
Texture, Measurements, Shape, and Material. Use full sentence form when describing each
characteristic.
Visuals: your description must be accompanied by visual material. Physical description
emphasizes the parts and their placement. Action statements are kept to a minimum.
B. Technical Description of a Mechanism in Operation

Oper-ati()n:-A-p~ocesS-in-whick-a-mechanism-fitnctions-tO-achieve.desir.ed-e.ffect.
An operational description emphasizes the interaction between the parts of the mechanism.
Movements or processes may be sequential and/or concurrent. Text should include description of
one full cycle of operation. Only steps are to be numbered.
Title: Physical Description of a (mechanism) in Operation
Introduction: Define the mechanism, including any theoretical material necessary for readers to
understand the concept of the mechanism's action. Include the purpose, function, operation and
major steps of the mechanism's operation.
Description: Identify each step in sequence, providing a logical definition of the step in question,
together with a reasonably detailed description of the equipment, material and/or concepts
involved in that step. Describe what happens in the step. Provide a transmission statement to the
next step.
Conclusion: Summarize the mechanism's function and the major steps of its operation.
54
C. Technical Description of Instructions
Instruction: Directions for human actions to affect a process to achieve a desired end or
consequence.
Instructions describe the operation of a mechanism or process in such a way as to enable others to
complete the process or task themselves (e.g., a cooking recipe).
Title: Instructions for (process or task)
Introduction: Define the overall process and its purpose. Explain necessary theory or principles.
Materials: List materials, equipment, ingredients, etc. required for the process.
Notations: Warnings, such as "Caution," "Danger"and "Note" must be placed before the step in
which they apply.
Steps: Using the imperative verb form, list all steps required to execute this task in numbered
sequence. Provide essential information necessary to this step and specific directions for its
execution. Describe the expected or desired result of the step, if relevant.
Conclusion: Summarize the steps of the instructions, and advise where additional information
can be found.
D. Technical Description of a Process

Process: a naturally occurring or designed sequence of operations or events, producing some
outcome or change in the properties ofone or more objects under its influence. This description
emphasizes a sequence of events producing change and is written in precise, specific, and
technically accurate terms. Processes are differentiated between processes of nature (e.g., a
volcanic eruption), and those initiated by humans, specifically, those without an operator (e.g.,
the operation ofa machine) and processes with an operator (e.g., painting a wall, repairing a
flaw). It is written in the third person, narrative style.
Title: Process Description of (process)
Introduction: Provide a technical definition of the overall process and its results. Explain
necessary theory or principles.
Steps: Each step is titled (normally in a separate paragraph) and discussed in reasonable,
adequate detail. Describe the function and purpose of each step and what happens during it.
. 1nolcate Its relationshIP to the following step.
Conclusion: Summarize the steps of the process.
55
Technical Description allows the audience to visualize something that is not there, a
mechanism or a process.
Mechanism description explains the arrangement and shape of an object in space.

What is it? What is its function?
What does it look like? (material, colour, surface, etc.)
What are its principal parts? How many? How are they related? What are the
specific details of its construction?
Process description explains a sequence in chronological order.

What is it? What is its function? Where is it used? When is it used?
Who or what perfonns it? How does it work? What m~es the process happen?
What are the numbered principal steps? What is its effect when the steps are
accomplished Z
56
TECHNICAL DESCRIPTION OF AN OBJECT
Enables experts to review plans for a mechanism to ensure they are sound
Enables technicians in construction, maintenance and repair, to do their work on the
mechanism
Enables consumers: investors, purchasors, students, to know how a thing looks and how
it works
THE MECHANISM OR OBJECT MAY BE
a small object like a flashlight in a flyer

a place like a warehouse, in a bid
a person like apollster, or an interviewee
a state of existence like capitalism
a situation like absence
57
TECHNICAL DESCRIPTION
starts with
TECHNICAL DEFINITION
usually sentence one
Technical definition: names the mechanism, gives its class,
appearance, and prinicipal characteristic or function
A hypodermic needle is a slender, hollow, steel instrument used to
introduce medication into the body.
Anaesthetics are drugs causing unconsciousness or insensibility to
pain.
PI ywood is a bui lding material composed of thin sheets of wood
glued together.
A periodic report is a technical paper" wri tten to record tasks
accomplished during a specified period of time.
A rectangl e is a foursided figure having all its angl es right
angles and, thus, its oppostie sides equal and parallel.
A mouse is an electronic device that looks like a small box and
pI ugs into the computer operating system to allow the user to
interact with the information on the screen.
58
METHODS OF DEVELOPING A TOPIC
1. Definition Brazing is a method by which a fi 11 er metal

joins two other metals.
2. Explanation The process of brazing involves ...
3. Analysis and synthesis Metals are joined by brazing because

the heated metal forms a
4. Cause-effect Railroads caused a shift in population as ...
5. Example Soddering is one example of brazing; another

is ...
6. Anecdote, Incident The carpenter used a soddering gun on a ...
7. Proof, data The juvenile crime rate stands at 81\.
8. Comparison and contrast A screwdriver is 1 ike a kni fe in

that ... but unlike a knife since the shaft ...
9. Principles and theories A magnet attracts because ...
10. Physical description The overhead projector is box-shaped ...
11. Negativism Mushrooms are not all poisonous ...
12. Hypothesis If there were no torque devices, would we be ...
59
TYPES OF INFORMATION TO CLARIFY A TOPIC
Definition Parking facilities refers to areas designated for personal vehicles not exceeding
household van size·
Explanation What Parking for Stadium users. Other details, safety, etc.
Where Vicinity within 1- mile, precise locations
When Hours open, precision
How Pedestrian, streets and/or walkways; or shuttle bus for ticket holders
Why Visitors, alternative·to Metro
Who Visitors, employees
Data· Statistics, may be raw score count, results of polls, etc.
Example 1240 S1. Jacques, 1100 St. Antoine, 854 Notre Dame
Anecdote User's particular example. The President of the company parked ten minutes
from Skydome, Atlanta; ten minutes is maximum walking time acceptable
Comparison and Contrast Superdome in Toronto pa~ks one fifth, alternate parking within 1
mile; no shuttle
Negativism Indicates what the subject is not; clears awayfal~e notions. Parking facilities
are not meant to encourage users to come iii their own vehicles; they are provided for
users who would not attend games by any other transportation means.
Hypothesis An educated guess..... If... ... If parking is not available and easily a9cesslble;
potential guests will· be diS90uraged (may be phrased as a question)
PhYSical description __ .. 1100 St. Antoine is paved flat, 1000 x 900 metres, fenced; 129 St. Marc
is sloped, earth surface, one side skewed, etc.
Cause and effect parking space will draw users
60
SIGNALING THE METHOD OF DEVELOPMENT
Definition punctuation
is, are, means
Brazing is a welding process by which a filler metal joins two
other metals.
Christmas, a religious holiday commemorating a holy birth,
occurs the 25th of December.
Explanation this, these, in other words, regarding, concerning,

as far as
prime position
During this period ... Regarding the.costs ...
Physically, she is well.
Cause and effect. because, as a result, due to, therefore
Example for example, for instance
Prophets, for example, foresaw doom
Anecdote operator
The carpenter, the photographer
Comparison and contrast
in contrast, in comparison
while, whereas, on the other hand, however, like,
unlike, just as, more, less, etc.
Physical Description
sense words, colour, smells, etc.,
weight, length, area, etc.
Negativism not, never
Television was never intended ...
Hypothesis if
If there were no television, would we be ...
61
Introduction:
Definition
Overall paragraph
Function of overall unit in specific detail
Overall description of unit in specific detail
Body:
Parts Breakdown
Each part:
Function
Placement
Colour
Texture
Measurement
Shape
Material
Conclusion:
Summary of definition, overall description, function of unit as a whole
62
SMALL MECHANISM DESCRIPTION (one paragraph)
INTRODUCTION INTENT 1-sentence or 2, maybe 3
Definition of mechanism: name, class, appearance and function WHAT, WHY

Theory or principle
Preview: referral to main parts
BODY CONTENT several sentences, one per part (plus)WHAT
Sentence 1+ overall appearance HOW

overall physical description
detailed list of parts
suggestion of purpose WHY, WHO
Sentence 2 (as needed) explanation of theories or principles
Sentences 3,4,5, etc. definition and description and amplification WHEN

of each part, one part per sentence (plus) WHERE
relationship· of parts
Sentence # description of use or function HOW
CONCLUSION CONSEQUENCES I sentence or 2 or 3

Referral to opening remarks WHAT, WHY
Resume of appearance and main parts HOW
Statement of consequences and direction SO WHAT
63
INTRODUCTION INTENT
-definition of mechanism: appearance & function what?
-overview of body of paper what? why? who?
-overall appearance in brief
-referral to main parts what? where? when?
-referral to synthesized operation
BODY CONTENT
paragraph 1. overall appearance
overall physical description
detailed list of parts
suggestion of purpose bow?
paragraph 2. •••as needed •••

explanations of theories &
principles
paragraph ••• definition. description &

amplification of each part
relationships of parts
·one part per paragraph
·one method per paragraph
paragraph •.• description of use or function
CONCLUSION CONSEQUENCES
-referral to opening remarks 60 what?
-resume of appearance &
main parts, function & consequences how?
64
THE CIRCULAR INSPECTION MIRROR
The circular inspection mirror is a hand-held device permitting visual inspection of intricate
equipment to identify manufacturing flaws. The device is a mirror that swivels on a handle
enabling observation of areas normally hidden from view. It looks·like a circle on a stick. It is
traditionally employed by technicians in the production of mechanical and electrical equipment.
The device consists of a mirror, universal swivel joint, and handle.
The mirror, the jOint and the handle permit a complete 360 degree positioning of the mirror
without any movement of the handle. The device is of a small size and slender shape for facility
of use. A pocket clip makes for easy carrying. The mirror is usually 1 1/8 inch in diametre, the
stem of the mirror is usually 3/8 inch and the handle usually 6 inches in length. The tool is made
of stainless steel with a plastic cover offering insulation from electrical shock.
The mirror is the dominant part. It reflects actual size. As it is used on the production line, its
stainless steel casing serves to protect it from hard knocks. The mirror is framed and backed.
The glass is slightly recessed and scratch resistant. It is connected to the universal joint by a
short, 3/8 inch stem welded to the mirror casing and ending in a round bearing ..
The universal joint is pivotal in the device. It is a two bearing joint positioned at the round bearing
end of the stem. Two encloser plates impressed with four concave slots prevent the bearings
leaving the joint but allow full rotation of the handle and mirror. A nut and screw combination
permits fine adjustment. Inside the universal casing. a second bearing, oPPosite the bearing
connected to the mirror, is connected to the steel rod handle.
The device permits inspection of hard-to-reach places. It is basically an extended mirror. Its
universal joint renders it maneuvrable. Its small size renders it portable. Its functionality effects
easy verification of products.
65
66
MECHANISM ASSIGNMENT
67
68
do. on a regular basis as an engineer. They require you to observe an object or process closely and
detennine the best way to describe it.
irifonruition contamed in a description should be verifiable and objective.- Titles of technical
A. Technical Description of a Mechanism at Rest

Mechanism: An apparatus or device that has several identifiable parts which function
together as a system.
This description emphasizes physical characteristics and is written in precise, specific, and
technically accurate terms. For this assignment you will be provided with a mechanism which has
at least three parts. Only parts are to be numbered, not introduction or conclusion.
Title: Physical Description of a (mechanism) at Rest
Introduction: Give a formal sentence definition of the mechanism, purpose and some
background information.
Parts Breakdown: A numbered parts breakdown must be provided giving the major and minor.
parts, appropriately titled according to their functions. Parts Description: Each part heading will
be then described according to the following list of characteristics: Function, Placement, Color,
Texture, Measurements, Shape, and Material. Use full sentence form when describing each
characteristic.
Visuals: your description must be accompanied by visual material. Physical description
emphasizes the parts and their placement. Action statements are kept to a minimum.
69
70
PROCESS
71
72
information contained in a description should be verifiable and objective. Titles of technical

Operation: A process in which a mechanism functions to achieve desired effect.
Introduction: Define the mechanism, including any theoretical material necessary for readers to
together with a reasonably detailed description ofthe equipment, material and/or concepts
next step. .
73
TECHNICAL PROCESS DESCRIPTION
A process is a series of actions or steps; a description of a

process is a description of a series of actions, a narration of
steps taken, of moves performed. A process description is mainly
concerned with how an event occurs.
Characteristics:
1. expository: explanatory method of development
2. chronological: even in teams
3. Signals, links: time, order, touch, sight, sound, etc.,

caution the reader, comfort the reader, so the reader will not
miss or misinterpret a step
4. Tense constant
5. Person constant
6. Types: with operator, without operator, instructional
74
TYPES OF PROCESS NARRATION
Process with operator .... describes
photo enlarging it, they (he/she, I, we, one)
soil preparation present (habitual) does
investment in the market past (experimental) done
automobile maintenance future (intention) will do
Process without operator ... describes

doorbell circuit it, they
gravitational influence present (habitual)
cold front slope change past (unusual)
mitosis future (expected)
heart
Instrcutional ... directs

how to remove a root you, they, (he/she)
how to fix a crack in a wall imperative take
how to change oil in a car modal should take
must, have to take
75
Technical Process Description
Short Process, without Operator
also called Mechanism in Operation
~HE CARBURETOR
The most important single element in the fuel system is (Intro)
the carburetor, which provides the engine with the proper (def.)
air/fuel ratio for a wide range of operating conditions. what/why
The carburetor operates on a simple physical principle. (preview)
Air drawn into the engine by the downward suction of a (Body)
piston in a cylinder enters the top of the carburetor bore how
and travels downward into a slight narrowing of the bore, when
the venturi. As the air passes through the venturi, it where
speeds up. This speed-up of the air causes a slight what
drop in pressure in the venturi. The drop in pressure how
pulls gas from the float bowl through a nozzle into the
bore of the carbutor. At this point the fuel mixes (Concl.)
with the air, forming a fine spray of atomized
particles. This air/fuel mixture passes through the (summary)
carburetor into the intake manifold, which distributes so what
the mixture to the cylinders for compression and burning.
76
OPERATION OF A GAS TURBINE ENGINE
Gas turbine engines depend on the Brayton thermodynamic cycle to

produce power. Air enters the engine via an inlet duct at
atmospheric pressure and constant volume. The pressure of the air
rises sharply as the volume to the air decreases as the fluid
passes throught the compressor. At high pressure the air enters
the combustion chamber of the engine, is mixed with fuel, and
ignited. The hot gas is expelled from the chamber and it expands
over the turbines which absorb some of the energy of the gas. The
ensuing rotation of the turbines turns the shaft of the engine.
The centrifugal compressor of a turbine engine compresses the air

that enters the motor. The centrifugal compressor is a radial
rotor that spins at high speed. The impellers of the rotor draw
air into the center of the compressor. Centrifugal force then
pushes the air to the rim of the rotor where it is expelled at an
extreme1 y high vel oci ty. The resu1 ting compressed f1 uid then
enters the combustion chamber.
As the gas stream enters the turbine's combustion chamber, fuel is

mixed with the air and ignited to elevate velocity of the mixture.
The air enters the chamber at high velocity and pressure. The
heating of the air by ignition causes the fluid to expand in volume
greatly. The less pressure lost in the combustion chamber, the
greater the jet thrust of gas that is delivered to the turbines.
The hot stream of gas expands over the turbines causing the
turbines to rotate. As the gas passes into the turbines, its
pressure and temperature are decreased greatly as the volume of the
turbine section is much greater than that of the combustion
chamber. The radial blades of the turbine catch the gas
circulating around them and absorb a significant amount of the
kinetic energy that the gas obtained from the compressor and the
combustion chamber. This kinetic energy is then utilized by the
turbines to drive a shaft where power is generated.
The gas turbine engine depends on the compressor, the combustion

chamber, and the turbines. utilizing the Brayton thermodynamic
cycle, the gas turbine engine is capable of producing significant
amounts of power. The engine compresses atmospheric air to a high
level. In the next phase the engine heats the air to increase its
volume. Finally the engine passes the air at a high velocity to
rotate a series of turbine impellers.
77
PROCESS WITH OPERATOR
Process with operator ACTIVE VOICE
A jelly sandwich is a quickly made snack composed of slices of bread and some jelly.
The materials needed are two slices of bread, jelly, a breadboard, and a knife. Sandwich
makers follow a four step process. They lay the slices side by side on the board. Then,
with the knife in one hand, they scoop a small amount of jelly and spread it evenly onto
one slice, being careful to reach all the comers. Next, they place one slice over the other
so that the jelly is between the bread. For convenient eating they cut the sandwich into
quarters. A bread and jam meal is thus rapidly created.
Process with operator PASSIVE VOICE
The materials needed are two slices of bread, jelly, a breadboard, and a knife. Creating
the snack involves a four step process. The two slices of bread are first placed side by
side on the breadboard. Then, a small amount of jelly is scooped up and evenly spread
onto one slice, right to the edges. Next, one slice is lifted and placed over the other so
that the jelly is contained between the bread. For convenient eating, the sandwich is then
cut into quarters. A bread and jam meal is thus rapidly created.
INSTRUCTIONAL Process
the snack involves a four step process.
1. Lay the slices of bread side by side on the breadboard.

2. With the knife in one hand, scoop a small amount onto the blade and spread it
evenly onto one of the slices of bread. Be careful to cov.er the slice right to
the edges so the snack will not be drty.
3. Flip the dry slice over the jellied slice to that the jelly is between the slices; be
sure the slices are right over each other.
4. For convenient eating, cut the sandwich into quarters.
A bread and jam meal is thus rapidly created.
78
SHORT PROCESS DESCRIPTION one paragraph
INTRODUCTION What are you doing?

Formal definition of process [one sentence] What, why
(Definition of mechanism if used in process) [one sentence1
(Statement of theory or principle, if needed) [one sentence]
Overview of major steps [one sentence]
BODY How is it done?

Materials required for process {one sentence] What, How
Step-by-step process description, one action per sentence What, How,
in chronological order, cued, linked Where, When
Who, Why
CONCLUSION So what now?

(Echo of process and purpose) [one sentence1 What, Why
(Resume of major steps and significant findings)[one sentence] How
Outcome and consequences [one sentence] What, Why
79
PROCESS DESCRIPTION
INTRODUCTION
-definition of process by name, what are YOU doina?
-definition of process by purpose why?
-definition of mechanism used what?
-statement of theories & principles basis
-overview of major sequences scope
-echo of process introduction & link who?
BODY
-echo of process sequence how do YOU do it?
-materials required what? how?
-step by step process description when?
one action per paragraph where?
cued, linked six questions
CONCLUSION
-echo of process & purpose so what now?
-resume of major steps & how?
significant findings
-outcome & consequences what? why?
80
System can handle up Trace emissions of hydrogen chloride. sulphur dioxide.
to 410,000 tonnes of lead, cadmium, mercury. dioxins and furans
garbage per year
Probable
composition
of waste
remaining
after
.
81
recycling
and .,.,
composting: ,~ ..
Paperl 19 % ~f£"~
cardboard
Plastic
Glass
5.5
1.5
!;;
)L;.
lo-1IIifiiI Co
Metal 4
Wood 14
Textile 9
Rubber 3.
Organic
material 24 Approximately 134.000 tonnes
Garden waste 5 of ash including 14.000 lonnes
Other 15 of toxic lIy ash. To landlill
or toxic-waste centre.
PROCESS DESCRIPTION ASSIGNMENT
Form groups. The submission will be a joint effort with individual grades.
The group as a whole will submit the titled assignment.
Following the techniques of organization and process description, the assignment will
begin with an introduction, continue with the body carrying the steps of the process, and
finish with a.conclusion.
Each member of the group will write one unit, either the introduction, or one step of the
procedure, or the conclusion. Each part will carry the name of the writer in the upper
right comer, each part will begin on a new page, each step will be subtitled. Each step
will have its own introductory sentence, body of sentences, conclusion.
STYLE
Begin each part with a definition. A void beginning with transition words and phrases.
For example, begin the introduction as follows:
A state-of-the-art process of incin.eration reduces the volume of raw garbage while
converting heat to electrical energy.
OR
A state-of-the-art incinerator reduces the volume of disposed waste while converting heat
to electricity.
Etc.
Start each step with a definition of the step; start with a concept:
Burning, the fourth step, reduces raw waste to one third of its original volume.
OR
Burning converts raw garbage into three by-products, heat, smoke, and ashes.
Avoid starting:
The fourth step is burning. This style just names the step instead of giving an idea.
The fourth step, burningt.converts ... This style gives too much emphasis to "fourth."
Conclude with a recapitulation and/or a direction to the reader.

No new material at the end.
Proper technical style: relatively formal, no contractions, no slang, no judgements, no

jokes, no sarcasm, etc
PRESENTATION
Cover page carries title of assignment, date and names of all contributors.
Each part will start on a new page, in INK, each part in different handwriting, on 8 Y2 by
11, double spaced, on one side only, with the contributor's name in the upper right
comer.
82
information contained in a description should be verifiable and objective. Titles oftechnical

Operation: A process in which a mechanism functions to achieve desired effect.
Introduction: Define the mechanism, including any theoretical material necessary for readers. to
together with a reasonably detailed description of the equipment, material and/or concepts
next step.
83
84
INSTRUCTIONS
85
86
INSTRUCTIONAL PROCESS
INTRODUCTION -deffnition Of process

by name & purpose
(paragraph) -definition of mechanism WHY?
inv01yed
-statement of theories WHO?
or principles
-overview of major steps WHAT?
and materials or suppHes
-echo of process introduction
BODY 1. echo of process &. purpose [OO)tJ?

materials &. to01s required
(numbered steps) WHERE?
2. major seQuence(s)
-numbered. step-by-step WHEN?
(use pronoun you. instruction
the liSt'./; or Q/Je) -one action per p~ragroph WHAT
-(cued. linked. precoutioned) CONDIT IONS?
3. results of process: effect

(use verb tense: 14J.·e, or final product achieved
mllst 14J.'8, should toke
or 14):OS)
CONCLUSION -echo of process &. purpose

-resume of major steps.
(paragraph) detai1s. significant findings. HOW USED?
outcome of process"
consequences WHAT NOW?
87
PROCESS WITH OPERATOR
Process with operator ACTIVE VOICE
The materials needed are two slices of bread, jelly, a breadboard, and a knife. Sandwich
makers follow a four step process. They lay the slices side by side on the board. Then,
with the knife in one hand, they scoop a small amount of jelly and spread it evenly onto
one slice, being careful to reach all the corners. Next, they place one slice over the other
so that the jelly is between the bread. For convenient eating they cut the sandwich into
quarters. A bread and jam meal is thus rapidly created.
Process with operator PASSIVE VOICE
the snack involves a four step process. The two slices of bread are first placed side by
side on the breadboard. Then, a small amount of jelly is scooped up. and evenly spread
onto one slice, right to the edges. Next, one slice is lifted and placed over the other so
that the jelly is contained between the bread. For convenient eating, the sandwich is then
cut into quarters. A bread and jam meal is thus rapidly created.
INSTRUCTIONAL Process
the snack involves a four step process.
1. Lay the slices of bread side by side on the breadboard.

2. With the knife in one hand, scoop a small amount onto the blade and spread it
evenly onto one of the slices of bread. Be careful to cover the slice right to
the edges so the snack will not be drty.
3. Flip the dry slice over the jellied slice to that the jelly is between the slices; be
sure the slices are right over each other.
4. For convenient eating, cut the sandwich into quarters.
A bread and jam meal is thus rapidly created.
88
C. Technical Description of Instructions
Instruction: Directions for human actions to affect a process to achieve a desired end or
consequence.
Instructions describe the operation of a mechanism or process in such a way as to enable others to
complete the process or task themselves (e.g., a cooking recipe).
Title: Instructions for (process or task)
Introduction: Define the overall process and its purpose. Explain necessary theory or principles.
Materials: List materials, equipment, ingredients, etc. required for the process.
Notations: Warnings, such as "Caution," "Danger"and ''Note'' must be placed before the step in
which they apply.
Steps: Using the imperative verb form, list all steps required to execute this task in numbered
sequence. Provide essential information necessary to this step and specific directions for its
execution. Describe the expected or desired result of the step, if relevant.
Conclusion: Summarize the steps of the instructions, and advise where additional information
can be found.
89
90
EXAMPLES OF INFORMAL REPORTS
91
92
TECHNICAL REPORTS
whether presented as memos, letters, informal reports, or formal reports
are always informational
to explain a mechanism or a process
INFORMATIONAL REPORTS explain a mechanism or a process as an end in itself.
OTHER TECHNICAL REPORTS may explain a mechanism or a process as part of

another study
SO THE READER CAN DRAW CONCLUSIONS FROM THE INFORMATION
REPORT INFORMATION READER ACTION

CONTAINED RESULTING
Periodic tasks accomplished employer personnel

over a specified period other employees implementation
of time
Field observations, activities supervisor decision, change in
on site or a trip policy
Interview data, ideas, info general audience decision, change in
colleagues policy
Progress work accomplished employer, manager continuation,
costs and expectations over sponsor cancellation or change
a period of time of project
Lab results of a specific primary investigator interpretation of
procedure significance,
incorporation into
scientific article
Medical symptoms, treatment treating physician treatment
response other physicians
Financial gains, losses, liabilities investor, banker continuation or
change in investment
credit or denial of
credit
others
93
PERIODIC REPORT January 10 to 14, 2001. JAMES LOCKHART
submitted January 17, 2001
January 10, Monday. Excelsior Plan submitted to Board.

Board Meeting, 11:00 to 13:20, unfinished. Data
calculated for Hummington traffic lanes. Proposal
blocked out for revitalization of LaSalle Centre.
January 11, Tuesday. Board Meeting continued, 9: 00 to 10: 00.
Proposal f0r LaSalle revitalization passed to·R. Jones
for perusal. Hummington traffic data applied to previous
Lachine traffic study for comparison. Meeting wi th
representative of Ayers for market surveys, unfinished.
Dinner with Company President.
January 12, Wednesday. Meeting with department heads to transmit
ideas I earned at dinner wi th Presdient. Consul tation
with assistant department heads. LaSalle plan
recuperated from R. Jones; adjustments to plan
considered. Revitalization budget submitted to Ministry
of Urban Affairs.·
January 13, Thursday. Hummington plan submitted to Vice President;
consultation with Vice President. Contact with Ministry
of Urban Affairs; meeting scheduled. Demographic data
examined for new planned school structure in Vimont.
January 14, Friday. Vimont data enlarged. Meeting with Ministry
of Urban Affairs. Meeting with President to report on
meeting with Urban Affairs. Dinner with Board members.
94
MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDA THURSDAY FRIDAY
Dynamic Incorporated Vice President's Office. Record of tasks.
9:00 Board meet. Board meet Meeting with Hunter Plan Review
Recorded continued. department submitted to Hunter Plan
proceedings laSalle heads, evaluating with
resolution transmit data .committee. department
~assed. from Board Questions. heads.
yped mins. meeting.
10:00 Data Arranged Reviewed
calculated meeting with compression
for traffic foreign plans with
lanes. delegates to trasnmitting
business company
lunch
11:00 Transmitted
data for
traffic lanes
to
department
heads.
Task record continued into next week.
95
PLAN SHEET FOR PROGRESS REPORT
INTRODUCTION consider the following and include in introduction:
Analysis of situation requiring a report
What is the subject to be reported and for what purpose is the
report being prepared?
For whom is the report intended? Who are the persons involved in
the report?
How will the report be use? What is the scope and limit or the
work?
In what format will the report be given? When is the report due?
What are the cost estimates projected dates of initiation and
I
completion?
BODY
Work completed: work done dates
Costs outlaid
Comments and recommendations
Work in progress: work presently being accomplished dates
Costs in progress
Work scheduled: work to be completed dates
Costs estimated
Conclusions and recommendations
CONCLUSION
96
First Progress Report July 15, 200-
MODIFICATION OF RESIDENCE 20 STRAITTHAY, MONTREAL
(Intro)
The modification of exterior and interior facilities of 20
Strai tthay is being undertaken in accordance wi th the contract
signed in Montreal, on june 12, 200-, between the owner,
and the contractor,
Modifications include changes in the facade, retiling of roof and
pointing up of chimneys, extension of three windows. Interior
modifications include removal of wall surrounding entry, rewiring
of entry, platering and painting and floors of three rooms affected
by window alterations.
Total expenses are expected to be approximately $50 000 in
materials and $35 000 in labour. Total repairs are expected
completed by November 15, 200-.
(Body)
Work completed: June 15 to July 14, 200-
As of· July 15 the front facade of grey fieldstone has been
repl a"ced. Reti I ing of roof has been compl eted and chimney repairs
have been done.
Costs: Equipment rental and cost of material s to date is
Labour costs to date total Costs to date are wi thin
estimate. statement is attached.
Work in progress: July 15 to August 14, 200-

Enlargement and exyension of windows is in progreso The formwork
is built for the concrete supports for the cantilevers. Demolition
of interior wall is underway and old wiring has been removed.
Costs: Cost of new wiring and fixtures may slightly exceed
estimate.
Work scheduled: August 15 to November 15, 200-

Inte~ior modifications after demolition and w1r1ng removal should
begin as scheduled towards mid-august and should be completed by
mid November.
Costs: Labour costs have increase $.-- per hour since original
estimate. However bulk purchase of paint and glass bricks have
reduced material costs originally estimated.
(Conclusion) (summary)
Construction holiday" slowed initiation of work; good weather
condi tions, however, permitted good time recuperation and work
should be completed within reasonable time of the estimate.
(changes)
Despite variations in costs, total estimated seems reasonable for
the job.
(recommendations)
A salvage company is recommended for removal of old facade
material, to modify costs and create space.
97
Second Progress Report August 15, 200-
MODIFICATIONS OF 20 STRAITTHAY
(Intro)
Modifications of 20 Straitthay are being under~aken of the exterior
and interior as specified in the contract signed June 12, 200-.
Work completed: June 15 to August 14, 200-

Facade, roof, chimneys have been modified and work is completed.
Two windows have been enlarged and one extended outwards and
enlarged, and glazed with glass bricks. The inner wall has been
completely removed and new wiring has been installed.
Costs:
Work in progress: August 15 to September 14, 200-
Plastering is in progres around the repaired windows and on all
ceilings affected by rewiring. Platering is in progress on all
crackes and wall imperfections. Lintels are ready for
installation. Scaffolding and form work outside have been
dismantled and removed.
Costs-:
Work scheduled: September 15 to November15, 200-

Cornices,varnishing of wainscotting should begin by midSeptember.
Painting and final touches are scheduled for the end of October.
Costs:
(Conclusion)
As indicated in Progress Report #1, despite some variations in
costs, total expenses should remain wi thin origin'al estimate.
98
FIELD REPORT OF
TRIP TO GENTILL Y· 2
Geptilly 2, a 685 Mega Watt nuclear power station owned by Hydro-

Quebec is located at Gentilly near Trois - Riviere. Quebec. The Gentilly
2 power plant uses the heat energy produced by the nuclear fission of
Uranium 235 to.produce electricity. In order to analyze the nuclear fuel
handling and storage at this facility, the members of our group visited
this power station on the III of October 1996. The following field report
summarizes our complete trip of the facility.
When we arrived at Gentilly 2. we were provided with a guide who
gave us a brief introduction to the power plant. After an identification
and registration procedure. we were passed through a sophisticated
security system and were led to Zone 1 of the nuclear power station.
Zone 1 had the least risk of radiation contamination and was attached to
the administration building.
On our left we saw the concrete nuclear reactor building of G-2. and
towards its right side we saw anothe( concrete structure which was not
as high as Gentilly 2. This building was the storage facility for the used
nuclear fuel, which can be kept there for more than fifty years.
On entering Zone 2 from Zone I, we were scanned by another
radioactivity detector, and from there we went to the control room of
Gentilly 2. This control room was sophisticatedly equipped with the
most modem computer and electrical network, and was used to navigate
the complete procedures and the working of the different parts of the
power station. Here we were also given a briefing about the handling
and storage of radioactive fuel, and the precautionary measures that had
been taken by the authorities to avoid a possible breakdown.
The reactor was located in Zone 3 of the facility. This zone had the
highest risk of radioactive exposure. We climbed up a flight of stairs to
a room, from where we monitored the Bay in zone 3. This Bay was a
pool of water 9.2m deep,11.6m wide and 20m long, used to store the
used fuel bundles after they had been used in the reactor for one year.
After visiting the three zones we went to visit the electricity
production unit at this facility, which was attached to zone 2 of the
building. This power generation plant was extremely large and noisy
and it served the purpose of converting the exothermic energy produced
by nuclear fission of Uranium 235, into kinetic and finally electrical
energy. The sound produced was so intense that we had to use ear plugs
before entering the power"'generatioo unit." During this tour we observed
how and in what order are the conversion cycles arranged to provide
maximum efficiency for the power plant.
During this tour our expcrience4 euide explained the function of
each a:nd every working part of tile power plant and we were able to
acquire the complete knowledge aboW tbe handling and storage of
nuclear fuel at Gentilly 2.
99
FIELD REPORT
COMMERCIAL BUILDING, 6253 OUTREMONT BOULEVARD
"·he cement stru·cture, 6253 outremont Boulevard, demonstrates

interesting features for commercial purposes. The bui lding is
situated at the intersection of two principal arteries, Pine Avenue
and Outremont Boulevard, both high traffic areas with enforced
speed control. Setback is 30 feet with some landscaping; posterior
asphalted areas promise adequate parking. The structure measures
1000 feet laterally, 1500 feet depthwise, and 75 fee~ in height.
Usable underground area is equal to the above ground dimensions.
Condition of the structure and supporting systems is satisfactory.
Location being the primary factor in commercial enterprises, the
situation of the structure is interesting. The area is commercial,
and businesses are active. Considerable traffic passes north-south
and east-west of the bui lding. To prec I ude traffic passing through
the area wi thout ~sing the commercial faci I i ties merchants on both
I
arteries petitioned and achieved,· effective speed control of 40K.

Frontage is on Outremont Boulevard, with the main custormer entry
300 feet north of the busy intersection thus permitting vehicles
safely to slow down and turn into the access areas.
The 30 foot setback is landscaped. At present, the setback is not
utilized for parking but for the presentation of a pleasant
frontage. The setback could be converted into special sticker
parking spots. Sufficient landscaping space exists in the areas
immediately beside the main doors. T~e setback is also one of the
routes to the principal parking areas.
At the rear, and accessible by three entry lanes, parking exists
for 425 cars. Truck space, in addition to customer parking, exists
for 12 vehicl es, at the main entry to the below ground area.
Parking is indicated by lanes and lines and the areas is divided by
landscaping into three zones. All three zones offer access to the
car order area and rear entry portals. The whole areas is open and
l~t although additional lighting would be necessitated for
nighttime use.
The structure is 1000 by 1500 feet, with a ceiling of 300 feet.
The entire interior front wall exposed cinderblock. The remaining
walls are brick and plaster. Industrial shelving runs from floor
to ceiling at 5 foot intervals along the three remaining walls.
Interior industrial strngth display lanes are perpendicular to the
front- wall and every 20 feet. The fl oor- is cement covered wi th
industrial, acryllic tile. The below ground area is equal in
dimensions, allowing for delivery areas of 60 by 100 feet at the
truck access. Shelving exists along two below ground walls, at
interval s of 10 feet. Except for the truck ·access lane, the
uriderground floor to ceiling clearance is 30 feet.
Immediate condition maintenance is light. The structure exhibits
no maJor fissures. Some minor water damage occurred during the
last storm. The reinforement is satisfactory. Most repair work is
cosmetic.
Locat~on, comfortable access and available parking are positive.

The ~1~e o~ the ~tructure permits adequate display and storage.
Cond1 t10n 1S sat1sfactory and repai rs possibl e. The buil ding
presents interesting commercial possibilities.
100
INTERVIEW REPORT
Canada Limited. When the Nuclear waste is ready to be stored
in the Bay, it is carefully sealed by the staff from International
Atomic Energy Commission.
Gentilly 2 is a Nuclear power station that produces most of
the electricity for Hydro Quebec. In order to study the Nuclear handling and Question: How do you store used fuel?
. storage at Gentilly 2 our group visited the site and Interviewed the official t1u
guide to the nuclear facility, Mr. Lany Rechsteiner. This interview was tike.r-- AnSwer: As I told you earlier, the used fuel btmdles are carried by robots to
py our group on the 1st of October 1996 and its highlights are as foUows: be stored in the Bay, which is a deep pool of water. and are kept
there for a period of 6 years. This is the minimum amouDI of time
required for the fuel bundles to cool. After they bavQ cooled in the
Question: What is the procedme for Nuclear handling at Gentilly 2 ? Bay for 6 years. they are transported to a Concrete ~ed
structure for the next 25 years.
Answer : In the handling of Nuclear products extreme pn:cauti0D8lY
measures are taken to avoid radioactive exposure to alllifc fcnns
in a 5 Kilometers radius of the power station. The most Question: How do you make sure that no radiation leaves the plant?
dangerous area as you have seen is the Zone 3, where
the reactor is placed. So, all handling of ouclear products in the Answer: Eversincc 1983, when the plant began its COIDIIlCI'CiaJ operation,
reactor is done by Computerized Robots, wbich are operated from we have made sure that no trace of radioactive material leaves the
101
the control room in Zone2. After the fueJ.bas been used for a vicinity. We continuously analyze the environmc:nt by Geological
period of 1 year, the fuel bundles are safely taken out oftbe surveys of the area arotmd the reactor.
reactor with the help of a robotic ann and are then transported These smveys for traces of radiation in men. animals and plants
immediately to the storage area. prove that Gentilly 2 is not a risk for the enviromne:nt.
Question: Do you consider Gentilly 2 to be up to the modem standards of Question: Is it possible for someone to misuse the nuclear products ?
Nuclear fuel handling and storage '1
Answer: No. It is impossible for anyone, even the workers to misuse the
Answer: Yes. Gentilly 2 is one of~e world's most tcchoologized and safe Nuclear products as they are either completely sealed while
Nuclear power station working with a CANDU-BLW reactor. . transported or in the reactor. And Secondly, the facility is under
Nuclear fuel handling and storage is done strictly tmder extremely sophisticated security.
supervision of an authorized personnel from Atomic Euergy
Gentilly 2 provides power for a considerable area

of the province. Security measures are part of the installation.
INTERVIEW REPORT
Many of the trams being presently U5Cd have been bwlt !lncC the SC'JcnIlC!. riley
rile STCUM 15 a servICe that transpons thousands of ~plc dluly to !heu are rarely changed. InSlead they an: m&lnwned rcgularly The cabins arc cleancd dally.
destinallon. For many. !he metro IS !he most practical and most economical way to the brakes and wheels an: checked blwcckly. and once a year the wbole train IS raken
travel. 81vlng It great imponance to theu evcryday lifc. In order to answer questions we apan for Inspection.
had about the metro thaI other sources perhaps could nol answer, a IcclwclM at HenrI. The electronic advenisements, Telecite. are cunentJy only on the 0f'IUIIlC hne
Bourassa metro, Marc Lemm:, was InIeMcwcd. The qucmons asked c:overcd such because 1\ is the mosI f'rcqucnlIy lased hne Teleclle was"developed by m IDdepcndent
topics as: bow the metro functiom; its maintcDanc:c; and wbat the future has ill SU'c:. company, and !O Its product IS on tnaill the moment. Evenrually. If srudtes prove tIw
The tnin ronsists of9 -.om (S on the ~kend) linked losethcr thaI a driver in the ads are effective, the rest oftbe lines will have them as ~1I.
!he fronl helps control. 'The ......K1()r of the tnin has received six ~ks of tnining in Presently, it is possible 10 NIl the metro !Olely by COIIIpuacrs wjlhoul the occess.ity
order 10 do this job. Basically. the metro is NIl automatically. 'T'bc IDiD is tel to JO :11\ of a cooductoc'. This techDique is beiJII practiced in ocher COWICIia, sucll III FJIIIIC.e., ac
4SkmIhr' SlId ~ the ausomatic: pilot takes over. At each SlOp, the a_dlle_ pa!ICS a the presenl time. However, in MoabaI, the only ~ .... _ ~ . . DOC ba:II
bunoa 10 bods opctI ..t dose tk doors. Wbcn!he tnia racbcs a tcnDiDus, the adopIed is because of suicides. The STCUM feels .... Moe . . . ~ a COIIdIockli .. *:
coadIIctof tMes ow. -.c. .. ~c piloc is DOC awwc that a complete stop is c.. 01 suicides or ocher ar.eraeocies.
needed. The dma oeedI to slow ~ die traiB to 2OtJQ/'br a while befon: reaching the llIerc is atw.ys _ . . .-po. C. C'" 011 die 8IdrO sys&cm The next
102
1enDiDla, this is why !he puxnscn feel a suddaa sbm ofthc brakes. ....0YCiIKiIb _ ~ .... -= tchectI>Ied will IMc pIKe from Man:h n 10 May 4,
Since !he metro ~ OD clcc1ric:ity. wtx:n !he ~ JOCS off. !O does the ~ Longueuil and Bem-UQAM. Then In Sel*Dibcr, bctweea s.ial--l-MImII aDd
metro. llIcR are no IlUk.*>fS. (fthis misfortune docs OCCUl',!he ~tor slows down McGill. Then: have been plans to mend !he meuo lines into Laval _ Montrad Norm
the train and tries to position thc train at a stop. Then: 15 nothing else heJshc can do. for quite a 1008 time now. nus has been delayed because !he STCUM " IO"cmment
On the ~kend, the wagons of !he train are reduced to S instead of 9. Sincc it is f\Inded and !O must receive authorization from them first. The JOYe1'I'IIDCDI Iws been
Icss busy on Ihc ~kend, the C'Xtra wagons would be a wasle of money. This bIockilll the plans !O far bccaIIIC they are not yet conviIx:c:d tt.& it will be profitable.
modi fitation saves the STCUM S4OO,OOO per year. Raareb and 5IUdic:s ~ bcinI ccaIucIed and the plans sbouId c:a.c illlO effCCl within
five ~ metro system has facilitated many Ii..... ,mnt people a sensible and
economical way 10 commute. The STCUM maintains '" tnIiM on • rqular basis and is
always Iookina for ways 10 improve in order 10 better KnC its ClISIOIDCI"S. The technician
thaI Was used for our interview was very helpful in answering the questions we posed and
Significantly supplemented our knowledge of the tOpiC. The mformation plhered From
Ihls mlcrvlcw has Introduced us 10 olher areas of thiS subJccl thai ~e no« formally
.: 0 n SIIkrC<l
All technical writing is about goods/mechanisms, or services/processes
The fOlmal proposal can be the proposal of a mechanism or a procedure.
Up to now the technical writing done has been analytical, informational, the sharing of
knowledge.
Now we will focus on offering information with a view to getting the reader to agree to
accept the information and act upon it.
SOLUTION REPORTS: all of the following reports offer suggestions
Analysis Recommendation Feasibility Propo~al

with recommendation report study
a good deal of starts off with a Compares and Analyses a

information, and in recommendation analyses two or situation and
the last p-aragraph and then gives an more mechanisms proposes an
or chapter, a analysis with plenty or processes to amelioration
recommendation of information decide which is or a solution;
backing the most feasible involves a plan
recommendation and then concludes to bring the
with a proposal into
recommendation effect. Suggests
for that product benefits, costs,
or service.
103
WAYS TO OPEN SOLUTION REPORTS
PROBLEM-SOLVING REPORT~ RECOMMENDATION, PROPOSAL,

FEASIBILITY, INVESTIGATIVE, OTHERS)
1. states problem, rejects one soiution, proposes another
The spread of AIDS among teenagers indicates an increase in

sexual activity, not a decrease. We have ~ot reversed the process
so we must concentrate on a cure.
2. states problem, proposes complex solution
Computer viruses cause billions of dollars worth of losses.

Experts are trying to create a "cure" virus which will find and
eliminate the "bug".
3. Problem is a request for knowledge.

Global warming is not proceeding as expected. No one
understands why, least of all ~~terologists.
4. States problem but report is solution oriented, signals the
s&l ution.
Prevention of lung cancer by legislation and education is our

goal.
5. States problem, report is solution oriented, emphasizes the

solution by position ana signal.
By educating our youth we can control AIDS.
6. States problem, solution oriented, different emphasis by

position and signal.
To control AIDS we must educate.
7. Solution oriented, signals the problem.
A systemic analysis will enable biologists to identify mutant

decomposants.
(Signals of sol utions su~gest "how" ... "helps, enables, triggers,

causes, results in."
CAUSE-ORIENTED
(ANALYTICAL)
8. states problem, analyses causes.
Analysts are beinning to understand the cau~es of this

recession.
OBSERVATION· REPORTS
(FIELD REPORTS, LAB REPORTS, MEDICAL REPORTS, OTHERS)
9. GiVeS observation, analyses.
Conversion of forest.ed land t.o agn.cul ture is oft.en the resul t

of severe economic pressure.
RESEARCHED REPORTS
10. Gives research data, contrasts still more researched data.
A variety of t'heories exis·t as to whether man descended from

the ape or with the ape. Newly ~iscovered, fossils suggest one of
these theories may have a broader scientific basis than previously
supposed.
104
WAYS TO CLOSE SOLUTION REPORTS
1. Full eircl e
AIDS is a disease that has reached global numbers. It is
always fatal. If education has not achieved prevention the
solution has to come from research.
2. Summary
AIDS is a global disease of epidemic proportions. It is
always fatal. Educational programs have not achieved their desired
results." Teenagers "are more sexuallY ac~ive ~nan ever S1nce ~ne
prevention programs began. Funding has been poured into services
to little avail. Focus must be directed to a cure.
3. Suggestion/Directive
AIDS is a disease of global proportions and prevention
programs have not resul ted in contro"ll ing the sexual acti vi ty of
teenages. Funding for such programs should be diverted into
searches for a cure.
to
105
ANALYTICAL REPORT RECOMMENDATION REPORT
WITH RECOM.MENDATIONS
Concordia's escalators ferry Concordia's escalators carry

thousands dai 1y thousands,
function on sound principles
and therefore shoul d have
thei r speed increased
Numbers carri ed wei ght load Numbers carn ed wei ght load
Number of escal ators Numbers of escalators
Locat i on, access Locat ion, accessi bi 1i ty
Physical size, fences and Physi ca 1 descri pt ion
operation: - size
1. mechani sm descri pt 1on - mechani sms
2. process description capacities - capaci ties of
max{mal, breakdowns, chance -tests,
Safety features Results of sat"ety features
Conclusion Conclusions,
Efficient units Recommendat ions:
Recornmendati on: Based on test -resul ts
Possi bl e increase in speed adjustments necessary
speeds, mechanical basis
i ndi cated advantages
OFFERS IDEAS ONL V EXPECTS ACTION
106
RECOHHENDAT I ON REPORT
INTRODUCTION
- state subject and reason(s) of investigation
- define mechanism if necessary
- give any principles or theories indicated
(market fl uctuat i on~ supply and demand
seasona 1 vari at i on~ etc.)
- overview briefly methods of investigation and
major findings and even recommendation if desired
BODY
- repeat subject and reasons for investigation
- explain methods of investigation:
personal experimentation~ trial~
1i terature search~ market research
- give findings of each investigation with
statistical data~ in verbal and visual format
- evaluate product globally
CONCLUSION
- repeat subject and purpose of investigation
briefly
- review major research methods and main
findings briefly
- repeat global evaluation
- based on these findings~ make your
recommendat ion
107
A. Contents of Feasibility Reports
Every feasibility report should contain the following sections: (1) an introduction,
which explains why it is important for us to consider these alternatives; (2) a criteria
section, which outlines your criteria for evaluation and explains why they are reasonable
and appropriate; (3) a methodology section, which demonstrates for the reader that your
facts are reliable; (4) a brief overview of the alternatives, which highlights the major
features of the alternatives; (5) an evaluation section, which explains how the alternatives
stack up against your criteria; (6) a conclusion, which explains the conclusions that can
be drawn your evaluation of the alternatives; and (7) a recommendations section, which
explains 'what you think should be done.
1.0 Introduction
The introduCtion should (a) state the purpose of the report or the goal that the report
to help to achieve, (b) describe the problem that leadJo the report, and '(c) include ~ny
pertinent background infonnation. You must also briefly discuss (d) the scope or
extent of the report, including a list of the alternatives under consideration, and (e)
any. procedures or methods used in the analyses of the alternatives. Any limitations
on the study should also be noted here as well.
2.0 Criteria
Criteria are the standards that you apply in a feasibility study to evaluate the
alternative courses of action, such as which software to use or which hardware to buy,
that you are considering. It is important to present your criteria early in the report for
the following reasons:
(l) your readers will want to evaluate the criteria themselves early in the report
because they understand that the validity of your conclusions depends on the
criteria that you chose to evaluate the alternatives,
(2) your discussion of the criteria tells readers a great deal about the scope 'of your
report, such as whether your restricted yourself to technical questions or also
considered relevant organizational i~sues such as profitability, and
(3) your discussion of the alternatives will make much more sense to your readers
if they know in advance the criteria by which .you are evaluating the
al temati ves.
There are four common types of criteria, which might help you determine the relevant
criteria for your own report. Criteria often address one or more of th~ following
questions:
(i) Will this course of action really do what's wanted?

(ii) Can we or the client implement this course of action?
(iii) Can we or the client afford it?
(iv) Is it desirable?
108
3.0 fl,tlethods
This section explains how you obtained your facts. The source of your facts will
depend on the nature of your study-library research, calls to manufacturers,
interviews, meetings with other experts in your organization, surveys, or laboratory
research. The amount of detail that you provide about your methods depends on your
readers and the situation, but your objective is to say enough to convince the reader
that your information is trustworthy.
4.0 Overview of Alternatives
Before you begin your detaile~ evaluation of the alternatives, you must be sure that
your readers understand what the alternatives are by providing them with a clear
overview of each alternative that you are considering. Sometimes you only need to
devote a few words to that task, or sometimes you may need to'provide extensive
background information or otherwise explain the alternatives to your readers.
S.O Evaluation
The heart of a feasibility report is the detailed evaluation of the course or cou~es of
action that you studied. lVlost writers organize their evaluation sections around their
criteria and explain how each alternative performed in relation to each of the criteria.
The other way to organize this section is to present all the results of the evaluation of
one particular course of action at a time, thereby leaving the direct comparison of the
alternatives to the conclusion section.
In this section, it is important to put your most important point first. Your most
important criteria or your most favourable alternative should be presented first.
6.0 Conclusions
Your conclusions constitute your overall assessment of the feasibility of the

alternatives that you studied. The conclusion should summarize the evaluation of all
the alternatives, usually in the order discussed in the body of the report.
7.0 Recommendations
This section presents the alternative that best meets the established criteria.
109
OUTLINE FOR A PROPOSAL
COVER LETTER
SUMMARY (the whole paper but backwards) briefly previews plan to

create a sol ution to an existing si tuation wi th its attendant
problems; suggests benefits from implementation.
INTRODUCTION subject of proposal, purpose or benefits in brief
CURRENT SITUATION described in full, wi th a description of the

needs or problems created by the situation, or evolving from the
situation.
PROPOSED SOLUTION or OBJECTIVE with its correction of the problem.
BENEFITS to various parties, from the solution.
PLAN in detail, with specifications, and plan for implementation of

the proposed solution
PERSONNEL and QUALIFICATIONS who will do the job
FACILITIES AND EQUIPMENT necessary
COSTS, UNKNOWNS financial analysis, hypothesis of other aspects or

results deriving.
CONCLUSION recapitulation of current needs and proposed plan
CONCLUSION (echo, brief summary of whole paper to leave reader

with complete thought to take home).
110
Proposal Parts and Questions They Answer
Proposal Part Reviewers' Questions

Cover Letter Do the executive officer and board or directors
of the proposing organization support the pro-
posed project?
Summary or Overview 'Nhat is this project about. and what do the writ-
ers propose to do? How does this project relate
to our interest? How will this project be better
than other similar ones we might fund?
Introduction 'Nho is proposing this project? What are the or-
ganization's interests and activities? 'Nhat kind or
track record does it have with similar projects?
Problem Statement or Needs As· 'Nhat is the problem? What is the need?
sessment Is the problem important? Is this the type of prob-
lem in which our organization is interested?
Does the writer have a grasp of the problem?
Does the writer's concept of the problem match
our concept?
Objectives Exactly what will be the outcomes of the pro-
posed werle?
What will be done? In what order?
Plan 'Nhat methods will be used? Are these the right
methods to achieve the objectives?
'Nhen will the project be complete?
Can the project be finished in the specified time.
or can we predict delays and budget overruns?
Evaluation or Quality Control 'Nhat measures will be used to establish that the
plan is achieving the objectives? How will we
know that the plan is working?
Budget How much will the project cost? How much will
.each component cost? Are the costs fair and rea-
sonable for the work performed?
Personl}el and QualifICations 'Nho will do the work? Do they have the qualifi.
cations (education, experience. interest) to do
the work well? Are they the best qualified of the
various people who have applied to do the job?
Do they have a record of success in similar proj-
ects?
Facilities and Equipment Do the proposers have the necessary facilities
and equipment to do the job they say they will
do?
Other Sources of Funding 'Nhen our grant ends. will the project die. or is
the support broad enough to ensure its continua·
tion? Have others committed to the project?
111
Formal Report Task
A formally presented technical report of 2000-2500 words forms part of the requirement
of the course. The report is due in two copies, at the beginning of class, i.-
that is, at the beginning of class in tr."," thi;~' ~" -e. The report must be presented
according to the guidelines outlined in class and in the coursepack, and must demonstrate
correct documentation protocol.
A menlo indicating choice oftopic(s) must be submitted by lecture three, and

subsequently attached, in an appendix, to the formal submission.
Topics will be investigated by exploration of recorded data, by attention to the ideas of

people knowledgeable in their field, and by observation. The report must be based on, at
least, five hard copy, up-to-date sources from the storehouse of knowledge; on, at least,
one electronic reference; and on, at least, one interview.
One copy is to-be submitted under "a clear plastic cover with a spiral binding; the second
copy may be submitted without a cover and stapled at the upper left comer. The bound
copy will be returned; the stapled version will be retained for future demonstration.
112
PROPOSAL
Parts of
IINTRODUCTION: subject and focus, their description, preview of parts of entire

document following.
CURRENT SITUATION (leading to problem)
PROBLEM STATEMENT
OBJECTIVES: proposed solution in total and in brief
BENEFITS: to ----- (this section can precede or follow the PLAN in detail section)
to -----
to ----
etc.
PLAN, in detail, describes the solution in detail

TECHNICAL volume/section: explains the physical aspects and demonstrates
that the propo~"al"can be effectively implemented
MANAGEMENT volume/section: demonstrates that the proposers have
adequ~te\y analysed t~e problem and themselves possess the skills
(training;" experience with technical aspects, financiai aspects or with
personnel), or have access to other persons who possess the skills and
resources to make the proposal work
THE COST volume/section: shows that the proposers have produced a cost
analysis
THE CALENDAR/SCHEDULE
CONCLUSION
APPENDICES
INDEX
REFERENCES
113
114
FORMAL REPORTS
115
116
FALL/WINTER SESSION ENCS 282 FORMAL REPORT
26 LECTURE SCHEDULE
A formal I y presented technical

report of 1800 to 2000 words, forms part of the requirements of
Technical Writing al:ld Conununication. The report is due, in two
copies, at the beginning of class in the nineteenth (19th) lecture,
that is, the first lecture of the tenth academic week. The report
must be presented according to the guidelines outlined .in class and
in the coursepack, and must demonstrate correct docwnentation
procedures.
Topics will be offered in the first lectures and a memo indicating
choice of·· topic must be submitted by lecture six (6) and
subsequently attached, in an appendix, to the formal report.
Topics will be investigated by attention the ideas of people
knowledgable in their field; where feasible, by observation; and by
exploration of recorded data: the report must be based on
information from at least five sources in the storehouse of
knowledge; to orient students to areas of research, a library
orientation session will take place midway through the course.
117
13 LECTURE SCHEDULE
A formally prc~sented technical

report of 1800 to 2000 words, forms part of the"requirements of
Technical Writing and Conununication.· The report is due, in two
copies, at the be9i~n1ng of class in the ninth (9th) lecture. The
report must be presented according to the guidelines outlined in
class and in the coursepack, and must demonstrate correct
documentat~on procedures.
Topics will be offered in the first lectures and a memo indicating

choice of topic must be submitted by lecture three (3). and
subsequently attached, in an appendix, to the formal report.
Topics will be investigated by attention the ideas of people
knowledgable in their field; where··feasible, by observation; and by
exploration of recorded data: the report must be based on
information from at least five sources in the storehouse of
knowledge; to orient students to areas of research, a library
orientation session will take place midway through the course.
118
Proposal Argument
For your final assignment, you will write a proposal. The goal of this proposal is
to persuade a particular audience that you can solve a particular problem in engineering
or computer science. Your central claim in the proposal must argue that you have a
sophisticated solution to your audience's problem.
Projects typically focus on investigation of a current issue in engineering or
science, solutions to a problem, comparison of alternatives, or investigation of technical
failures. There are almost as many kinds of proposals as there are problems to solve. All
proposals, however, contain certain elements: a description of the problem, ajustification
for doing the proposed work, a plan for doing the proposed work, a budget for what it
will cost to do the work, the qualifications of those doing the work and an explanation of
the methodology, including the criteria, which will be used to evaluate solutions. In your
proposal, you will be trying to convince a client that you have a viable plan for solving a
particular problem or filling a need.
Building a Proposal Argument

A proposal argument answers the question, "What should we do?" Thus, you will argue
that a group or person should follow a particular course of action. Alternatively, you can
argue against taking a particular action. Before you propose anything, however, you need
to identify a problem.
Possible Points of Departure

Have a look at these questions and think about whether or not any of them will help you
select a proposal topic.
Does something at Concordia University, the city of Montreal, or an enterprise that you
are daily contact with need to change? Does the sewer system, Metro, electric company,
telephone service, skyline architecture, internet server, highways or bridges, or cell-phone
provider have problems that you have the solution for? What company do you see
yourself working for in the future, and do they have problems to solve,or situations that
need to be improved? Has someone proposed a technical solution that you think won't
solve a problem?
After you've identified a problem, you must think about the feasibility of the solution. Is
it something we can live with? Does it need to be addressed immediately? You might
want to consider a variety of solutions, including steps that might already have been
taken, and pick the best of the bunch.
Once you've examined several options, you will propose the solution that you think is
best. You must provide reasons and evidence to demonstrate to the reader that this is the
best solution.
Think about the following:

• Would it be a good idea to do nothing? Why or why not?
• Does your proposal do the best job of correcting the problem?
• Is your solution feasible--is it doable, practical, and affordable?
119
Generating your proposal
Your proposal must have an effective problem statement. You have to argue to establish
(or deny) the existence of a problem, its significance, and its major causes.
Your proposal must make clear that you are arguing for a particular solution (even if that
solution means telling your audience not to select a particular solution proposed by
someone else.) Your proposal must state, in clear terms, whether or not your solution will
reduce, eliminate or do nothing to solve the problem. Your proposal must outline
whether the solution is desirable/undesirable, costly/inexpensive, feasible/impossible to
implement.
While thinking big is good, bear in mind that your solution doesn't have to solve the
world's problems. Your proposal should solve your problem.
You must also consider alternative solutions to your problem. No problem has one
solution, but otherS may be too expensive, too time consuming, have undesirable
consequences on the environment or public life. Your proposal should briefly describe
an alternative solution, and describe why you have not chosen it.
The Proposal's Audience

For this proposal, your audience will be an individual or group with the authority to enact
your proposal. You may need to do some research to determine who this is. For example,
you could aim to persuade a group of homeowners in Laval to sign a petition rejecting a
brand new water pumping station because it will be too costly, and the current system
will only need minor adjustment. .. adjustments that you can make at a fraction of the
cost. Remember that this proposal is attempting to persuade. Make sure that you write the
proposal such that your audience will understand your arguments. Do not use simplistic
terms if you are trying to persuade a chief engineer, and do not use overly complex terms
if you are addressing your neighbours. Thus, you must choose appropriate appeals, style,
and tone.
Formatting
The report should contain all of the following sections. Each section should be letter
perfect, with no typos, or grammatical errors.
Please submit the following sections:
Title page
This section should include:
• Exact title ofthe report
• Your name and title
• Receiver's name and title
• Date of completion
• Institution or origin of report
120
• An Informative Abstract for a technical audience (one paragraph that
summarizes the problem, your solution, and any major arguments in
favour of your solution-less than 150 words)
Table of contents (list nothing that appears before it)
Your report must include these section headings in this order:

1. Executive Summary
2. Statement of the Problem
3. Solution Criteria
4. Plan of Action
5. Schedule
6. Budget
7. Qualifications (What makes you qualified to do the work - you may assume you
have already graduated from Concordia)
8. Sources of Information
List of illustrations (if necessary; list 1-2 illustrations in table of contents)
ProposaLContent
The Executive Summary gives a brief overview - in paragraph form- of this

information:
• The problem
• What you intend to do to fix it
• Alternate Solutions
• General criteria for solution (How did you judge that this was the best solution?
Was it the cheapest, fastest, safest, most widely known?)
• Time frame
• Budget
The Statement of the Problem section defines more fully the problem and your solution.
Be sure to explain the problem in terms of the needs of your audience. At the end of this
section, your audience should understand why the problem needs to be fixed.
The Solution Criteria section explains why your solution is the right solution for this
particular problem, at this particular time, for this partiCUlar audience. Some criteria may
include cost, time, availability of materials, seasonal changes, environmental or social
impact.
The Plan of Action describes how you will implement your solution to the problem. If
you have data that supports your solution, you show how/from where you got this data,
and how you analysed it to make it support your proposal. This section must mention
where you got your information (research in a lab? In a library? Field work?
Interviews?) Give an overview of your problem solving method. Also, in this section,
outline other proposed solutions to this problem and show why your proposal is better
121
The Schedule should be as realistic as possible. Assume you have two months to
complete your investigation, analyze your data, evaluate possible solutions, and write
your proposal.
For the Budget section, count on $1001hour for your time (consulting, researching,
investigating, testing, etc.). Also include any other costs you think might arise in the
course of completing the project. (Do you need to rent equipment? Will you need
technicians on-site?). You may use a visual diagram for presenting your budget.
The Qualifications section outlines the qualifications ofthe researcher doing the study:
you. Think about what work you've done and what courses you1ve taken might qualify
you to work on this project. Remember: You are the expert - tell your audience why they
should trust you.
Sources of Information includes printed materials, electronically available infonnation,

and people with expertise in aspects of your project. You must present your sources in
bibliographic fonn. List all material that you actually used, arranged in alphabetical
order. A maximum of 5 sources may be from the internet. You must use a sufficient
number of appropriate sources to make your argument persuasive-at least 7 but probably
more. Us.e outside sources to support any part of your argument and to provide alternative
positions that you will respond to.
FORMAT: Double spaced, l2pt font Times New Roman. The proposal will be around
15-17 pages including the bibliography and title pages. You will hand in TWO copies of
the report.
Some report criteria: Did the student. .... ?

• Demonstrate an ability to construct a proposal argument.
• Choose a significant and arguable claim.
• Dett1dnstrate- an -ability to use wel1:.:chosen, fair and sufficient appeals to ethos,
logos and pathos to support your claims (including appropriate graphics)
• Consider alternative solutions, with appropriate use of concessions and rebuttals.
• Use other authors as allies or as opponents. Did they paraphrase and not
plagiarise
• Advocate confidently and civilly their position.
• Employ proper use, citation, and documentation of source material.
• Use effective essay organization to create a clear line of argument.
• Use clear and precise sentence-level rhetoric (grammar and style).
122
OUTLINE FOR A PROPOSAL
COVER LETTER
SUMMARY (the whole paper but backwards) briefly previews plan to
create a solution to an existing situation with its attendant
problems; suggests benefits from implementation.
INTRODUCTION subject of proposal, purpose or benefits in brief
CURRENT SITUATION described in full, with a description of the
needs or problems created by the situation, or evolving from the
situation.
PROPOSED SOLUTION or OBJECTIVE with its correction of the problem.
BENEFITS to various par.ties, f rom the sol uti on.
PLAN in detai 1 ~ with specifications, and plan for implementation of
the proposed solution
PERSONNEL and QUALIFICATIONS who will do the job
FACILITIES AND EQUIPMENT necessary
COSTS, UNKNOWNS financial analysis, hypothesis of other aspects or
results deriving.
CONCLUSION recapitulation of current needs and proposed plan
CONCLUSION (echo, brief summary of whole paper to leave reader

with complete thought to take horne).
123
MEMO
To: Professor M. Silas

From: Douglas Brenner
Date: September 23, 200?
Subject: Automobile Ignition Systems
Automobile ignition systems are necessary components of motor vehicles. New

government regurations have forced' car manufacturers to redesign their products. The
new designs have created electronic ignition systems which avoid mechanical breaker
pOints, a commoillocation for missed signals and inefficiency. The new designs focus on
electronicswitching and electronic timing devices. With the new products, cars are able to
start more easily and cause less pollution. These state-of -the-art ignitions are one step
in the evolution of ginition. .
124
TECHNICAL REPORTS
Technical reports, short and long, exist because somebody wants to know something:
If something can be done investigative

How something can be done recommendation
If a contractor can land the job tender
the
If a contractor can do job evaluative
Why a situation exists investigative
Why a fault exists investigative
How a process is carried on infonnation
How a situation may be changed recommendation
How a situation developed infonnation
What a mechanism looks like infonnation
What results if a procedure is followed lab
Etc.
125
TECHNICAL REPORTS
A technical report is a COMPLETE discussion ofa technical endeavour
A complete discussion states: the intention
the investigation, the events, the parts
the outcome, the recommendations, the conclusions
126
Technical Reports
A technical report presents the discussion in an organized, guided manner
The organization and guidelines follow technical specifications

These technical specifications are one of the concerns of this course
SPECIFICATIONS
The informal technical papers written in class thus far were presented according to certain specs:
Length
Date or time due
Presentation format: iitk, double spaced, one side only
Titles and sub-titles
Identification: name, class, date, assignment #, in upper right corner
The formal technical report is also presented according to specs
Length, 1800-2000
Date and time due: beginning offrrst lecture in lolh week
Presentation format, as per notes and lectures
Titles, sub-titles, parts, etc.
References: minimum 5, minimum hard copy 3
Visuals, 5, original 3
Submission in 2 copies
Identi fication
127
GUIDES IN FORMAL REPORTS
A formal report tends to be long. To facilitate the reader's progress through 2000 or 50000 or 100000
words, a formal report guides the reader.
These guides forllow precise technical specifications:
A mini paper accompanies the document abstract

A list of key points precedes the report table of contents
Kyy words and phrases head parts of the report titles and sub-titles
Reference is made to sources references
A list of all concepts is included index
Illustrations clarify the report visuals
Because it is long, a formal report bases its-exposition heaavily on the storehouse of knowledge
128
REFERENCES TO THE STOREHOUSE OF KNOWLEDGE
Why?
To indicate that a search has been made and that you are adding to the storehouse
To indicate that you are in state-of-the-art condition
To confum originality
To enrich paper
To broaden base and give a historical perspective
To validate ideas
The writer's originality lies in:"
Choice of sources
Choice of information from the sources
Assembly of information
Conclusions
ALL KNOWLEDGE IS CUMULATIVE
129
CONTENT OF REPORT
PRELIMINARIES
letter of transmittal
outside title page
abstract
inside title page
(foreword)
(acknowledgements)
table of contents
(list of figures)
(list of tables)
(list of graphs)
(list of plates)
(symbols and notations)
(glossary)
TEXT
Introduction
Body of text in chapters with titles and subtitles
(Recommendation and) Conclusion
FINAL SECTION
(appendix/appendices: memo, others)

index
references
130
REPORTS
A report offers three statements in three parts
INTRODUCTION intent: attract reader's attention

Formal statement of subject and purpose what is being done
Reasons the technical investigation why it is being done
has been undertaken who is concerned
Overview of study with the study
BODY OF REPORT content: educate reader

Formal statement of investigation how endeavour is
Methods of investigation carried out
Events, parts, results of investigation where, when, who
(what was learned, the technical session)
Conclusion, outcome, recommendation what has been found
what can be
concluded
TERMINAL SECTION portent, outcome: direct reader
Formal statement of consequences where consequences
apply
Addresses consequences, applications what is planned next
Recommendations of how report is to be
technical investigation used
131
FORMAL REPORT WRITING PROCEDURE
1. Select topic, restricted, worthwhile

2. Have a theory or hypothesis in mind and express it in a purpose statement.
3. Prepare a working outline of sections and subsections. The revised outline will
later become the table of contents.
4. Survey the material available
5. Prepare preliminary bibliography
6. Familiarize self with subject matter, from texts and company literature, etc.
(postpone note-taking)
7. Further restrict topic and focus purpose statement
8. Read pertinent information. Take notes. Record ideas and keep a file of ideas.
9. Begin field work; take notes. Interview. Visit.
10. Revise outline, make more pertinent
11. Organize notes under subject headings
12. Correct imbalances and gaps. If necessary return to sources and do additional
research and/or additional field work and/or additional interviewing
13. Title. Titling will further focus the study.
14. Draft out in full
132
OUTLINE FOR A SEARCH
Encyclopedias, handbooks, dictionaries, guides to reference work, yield tenns for a word search
Card catalogues, databases, lists of books in print
Texts, theses .
Journal indexes
Journals
Abstract indexes
Abstracts
Originals
Microfilm indexes
Microfilms
Inter-library loan
Electronic search, search engines, computer search
Electronic documents
Government documents
Industrial libraries
In-house pamphlets
133
A TECHNICAL REPORT PRESENTS AN EXAMINATION OF A SUBJECT
The subject must be investigated hands-on in its setting, through discussion with
knowledgeable personnel, and through extensive search of literature.
Reasons for literature search:
1. a researched paper gathers information from many sources and bases the writer's
thoughts, studies and experiments in a historical perspective.
2. ensures originality
3. provides validity and amplification of ideas
Knowledge is cumulative and is based on what went before.
134
REFERENCING
The words "reference" "citation" "footnote" "documentation'; "credit"

"acmowledgement" all refer to the same procedure_ giving evidence of original
authorship.
Any information the writer derives from the literature search and uses in the paper
:MUST indicate indebtedness to a source, whether VERBATIM or PARAPHRASED.
A heavily referenced paper is CREATIVE. The writer's creativity derives from

selecting the sources, selecting the specific details from. the sources, arranging the
items in the paper and drawing conclusions from them.
A heavily referenced paper is knowledgeable. A referenced paper keeps primary and

secondary mowledge visible.
135
SUPERSCRIPT AND SOURCE
In all systems of referencing a symbol is placed at the point of reference, that is, at the
end of a the material, the unit of information, drawn from the source
and
a list of sources is compiled at the end of the paper
136
WHAT TO CITE
Any material drawn form a source including visuals, whether paraphrased or verbatim
must be referenced.
Paraphrased information is followed by a superscript.
Verbatim information is either surrounded by quotation marks or is single spaced and

double indented and followed by a superscript
137
ELLIPSIS
... an ellipsis means material has been omitted inside a short or a long verbatim
quote, or that the beginning or the first sentence or the ending of the last sentence in a
long verbatim quote has been omitted.
"Economical considerations ... are based on the assumption that McGill will purchase
the parkland."
... exhaustive urban impact studies

and public consultation are required
to justify the removal of a piece of
protected parkland. Yet a private
bill was .. .introduced ... to secure the
transaction .... (1)
138
REFERENCES
1. Adams, John, "An Answer to Space," The Gazette, Montreal,
November 3, 2003, B1,4.
2. "McGill Heads Home," McGill Magazine, XXIII, 3 (March 2003)

123-24.
3. Streeter, James, Cataloques, New York: Scribner and Sons, 2002,
299-301. Web. POR.250.345
4. Cosmos, Marian and Betty Albright, Questinq, Toronto: MacMillan

and Co., 2001, xii-xiii. Van. ISN.234.345
5. Streeter, 303.
6. Cosmos and Albright, 45-46.
7. "McGill Heads," 125.
8. Torenson, Albert, President, Inco, Interview, Montreal, March

2003.
9. Perot, Ross, An American in Danger, March 3, 2002, n.p.,

www.soilassoc.org.
10. Olivet, Moira, Assault on Viruses, n.d., 3, www.assets.com.
11. Cascourt, Elaine et al., Integers, Montreal: McGill University

Press, 2002, 1101. McGill. MCG.234.345.
12. Cascourt et aI, 1103.
13. Smith, John, Hallways,· New York: Sosh and Hay, 2002, 203-204.
14. Smith, John, Anterior Areas, Montreal: Galway Press, 2001, 305.
15. Smith, Hallways, 205.
16. Baleson, Homer. Coins, Montreal: Concordia, 2003, 26-27.

Web. MVE.987.234.
17. Ministry of Mines and forests, Caves, Government of Canada,

·n. d., n. p.
18. Bellario, Claude, "Ie Numero Perdu," Paris: Flammarion, 1999,
39-40, as quoted in Joseph Callander, Lost Inteqers, Toronto: Lang
Press, 2002, 450-51. Beaconsfield Tor. 34567.
139
140
LIBRARY ORIENTATION
141
ABSTRACTS
142
ABSTRACT FOREWORD PRErACE INTRODUCTION
descripl i¥e iniormlili¥e guides reader

anwers background
indicate:3 topic, indicates topic, - gi ves topi c gives topic questions:
PW-POS8 .. range of purpose . nlnge of reasons for 1. purpose WHAT: subject
investigation. in'.,le:3tigation publishing 2. reasons for condit ions theori es
= intent, briefly document doing study WHY: validity,
describes methods· - locates document 3. resumes, scope authori zat ion
or di scussi on. in time &. space &. e:o<pected results WHO: concern
=content, gives - mentions time 4. mentions special WHERE: location
major findings, covered contributions &. WHEN: dotes &.
results, conclusions any other purpose deedltnes
significances. for report HOW: scope &. limits
143
= outcome) 5. personal comments of investigation &

formal statement 6. acknowledgements procedures
answers 6 questions 7. informal also
makes sense by statement HOW USED: indicates
itself. use of report
* same style, tone,
tense, person as
original paper.
ABSTRACT, SUMMARY*, SYNOPSIS*, PRECIS*
<*no need for orisinal)
ALL REFER TO A DIGEST OF THE MOST
IMPORTANT IDEAS OF THE REPORT
- A TIME-SAVING DEVICE
- GIVES A QUICK, ACCURATE IDEA OF WHAT
THE REPORT HAS TO SAY
(MANY PEOPLE SEE A REPORT ; FEW READ
MORE THAN TRANSMITTAL, TITLE PAGE,
ABSTRACT, TABLE OF CONTENTS.)
IT IS CUSTOMARY TO PLACE AN ABSTRACT
BEFORE A REPORT, A DOCUMENT, A THESIS.
144
THREE TYPES OF ABSTRACTS
DESCRIPrIVE INFORMATIVE EXECUTIVESU~ARY
Mini mini 1% Mini Report 5% Replaces report 25%
Gives topic and purpose Gi yes topic and purpose Extended abstracts,
of report, but little data of report and an abbreviated containing both substance
the report offers about version of what the report and structure of the
the topic. offers about the topic. original report.
One mini paragraph One(lengthy)paragraph Paragraphed
145
CONTENTS OF ABSTRACTS
A definitive statement of endeavour (the intro)
A brief description of design and of endeavour accomplished, a brief discussion of major

findings (the body)
Results and consequences, significance or lack thereof (conclusion)
Answers questions:
What?
Why?
When?
Where?
Who?
How?
and
So what?
Length: max. 5% a very short abstract is sometimes called an epitome
146
STYLE OF ABSTRACTS
Straight exposition (articles are not omitted)
May contain tabular data but no other visuals
No judgements
No abbreviations that would be unacceptable in the report
Same tone, tense, person, point of view as the report
AVOID WRITING ''THE REPORT STATES THAT CATALYSTS ARE SUITED ... "
ruST WRITE "CATALYSTS ARE SUITED ... "
AVOID WRITING ''THE REPORT DISCUSSES, THE REPORT IS ABOUT ... "
SINGLE PARAGRAPH, ON A PAGE BY ITSELF, WITH THE WORD 'ABSTRACT'

AT THE TOP AND THE TITLE AND AUTHOR(S) OF THE ARTICLE
UNDERNEATH.
147
TO WRITE
1. MARK IMPORTANT POINTS IN MARGIN

2. RECORD SENTENCES ON PAPER
3. ADD STATEMENT GIVING TOPIC AND FOCUS OF REPORT TO TOP OF LIST IF NOT
ALREADY THERE.
4. IF ORIGINAL WAS CORRECTLY ORGANIZED POINTS SHOULD FOLLOW IN LOGICAL
SEQUENCE.
5. CHECK LENGTH; PERHAPS DELETE METHODS OF INVESTIGATION OR NON-CRITICAL
RESULTS, OR ETC.
6.
DIGEST MUST MAKE SENSE IN 'ITSELF-
148
VISU ALS
149
150
THREE TYPES OF GRAPHS
PRESENT INFORMATION VISUALLY --
(TWO FACTORS ON TWO AXES)
LINE GRAPHS SHOW MOVEMENT, CHANGE, PROGRESS,
AND PERMIT PREDICTION OR FORECAST.
BAR GRAPHS CLEARLY INDICATE AMOUNTS
CLUSTER BAR GRAPHS (MULTIPLE BAR GRAPHS)
PERMIT COMPARIS~N WITHIN A GROUP.
SEGMENTED BAR GRAPHS PRESENT
INTERNAL COMPOSITION OF AN AMOUNT
PIE CHARTS PRESENT PPOPOR7IONS OF
A WHOLE (WHAT SIZE SLICE)
151
PROPOSAL SUGGESTIONS ENCS 282
Roof ~ardens
2nd,3 r and 4th storey condos or apartments over malls like Place Vertu, Cavendish
Low cost housing under the Ville Marie Expressway
Private wind power ... a windmill and storage battery on each roof.
Harnessing turbulence along highways
Volunteer manpower in police stations; seniors providing typing and telephone functions
Welfare work in metro stations
Welfare recipients providing anti-theft and anti-trouble functions in front of stores and
paid by merchants
Making the Olympic Stadium the site of the new CHUM hospital
Turcotte Yards as the new site of the CHUM
Covered sidewalks on downtown streets, as on St. Hubert St.
A roof garden on the Library Building
A Concordia satellite campus in Laval and/or in Longeuil
Concordia university of the seven seas: a floating university
'()thers
152
Risk communication involves exchange of information among individuals, groups and
institutions.
Proposals involve new concepts or new practices or new equipment, or anything new.
New things scare audiences. Proposers have to get past that fear. Proposers have to
persuade.
New things, however, involve risk. Results involve the unknown. Risk has to be
communicated and the audience persuaded despite risk.
RISK COMMUNICATION
Risk communication by engineers and scientists

appears in technical language
Risk communication in regulations
appears in the language of standards and specifications
Risk communication to the general public
appears in the language of social outreach: personal and social concerns
KINDS OF THINGS WE FIND RISKY AND WHY
We are more worried about risks we have imposed upon us than those where we have
control. The most powerful variable is need. We take risks or accept risks if we need
something.
RISK IS MORE ACCEPTABLE IF IT IS PERCEIVED TO BE
Voluntary and ourdecision(car) than imposed upon us by someone else (a work trip)
Natural (typhoon) than perceived as man-made (pollution)
Clear benefit Oottery) little or no benefit (helping someone else cheat)
Under my control (I drive) perceived as controlled by others (bus driver drives)
Distributed fairly (all names perceived as unfairly distributed (only you are the
appear on mortgage) mortgagee despite three other owners)
Statistical (chance of being mugged) perceived to be catastrophic (Avian flu)
Familiar (walking alone on a local contextual, certain situations (walking alone
street in the dark) in an unfamiliar district in the dark)
Affecting adults affecting children
Old things (service contract new things (service contract on a pet)
on a frig)
153
COMMUNICATING RISK INVOLVED IN A PROPOSAL
You may have to communicate risk to engineers, shareholders, the general public
So: Be consistent with words, names, important tenns
A void acronyms, jargon, provide definitions
Consider diagrams or visuals when working with the media or in any public presentation
Use familiar terms of reference to explain magnitude of risk
Indicate level of certainty
If information is unavailable, admit it

When asked, "If you're not sure of risk, how can I know I'll be safe" or if you don't
know the answer, ADMIT IT. This is not a question about data.
RISK COMMUNICATION GONE WRONG
B~e: accept your share of responsibility

Costs: focus on benefit to be derived, not on cost of fixing problem
Humour: nothing about risk is funny
Avoid negative words and phrases: do not say ''this is not Chemobyl."
Offthe record: you are AL WAYS on record.
Speculation: avoid being a seer
Personal identity: speak for your organization; so use "We."
154
ORAL REPORTING
155
156
TO PUBLICIZE YOUR PROPOSAL to increase your chances of getting it accepted:
Call an assembly
(invite the Board of Govemors, the CEO's of your company, the Dean and so on)
(you will have to find the place to present your idea and reserve the room and the
technical equipment needed for the presentation)
and present your idea in brief, in an oral delivery
(Remember that your persona is one of the tools you use to persuade.)
and
Write a press release, announcing to the public that a proposal will be introduced orally to
the Board, etc. and that, as the proposal is of public interest, members of the municipal
community are invited.
157
ORAL REPORTS
1. IMPROMPTU ---- SHARING OF PERSONALITIES RATHER THAN IDEAS;
SHARES SPEAKER; RISKY IN TECHNICAL REPORTING
2. SPEAKING FROM MEMORY ••• WRITING OUT A SPEECH AND MEMORIZING IT ----
ADVANTAGES: COMPLETE PHRASEOLOGY
DISADVANTAGES: INFLEXIBLE; DANGER OF MEMORY LAPSE;
DOES NOT PERMIT SKIPPING- LOSES COHERENCE
SPEAKER THINKS OF WORDS RATHER THAN IDEAS
LACKS SPARK OF SPONTANEITY
3. EXTEMPORANEOUS SPEECH -- REPORT IS PLANNED & ORGANIZED IN OUTLINE
(WITHOUT DEFINITE PHRASEOLOGY)
INCLUDING VITAL FACTS & FIGURES
TYPED , SPACED , UNDERLINED
IMPORTANT SECTIONS CAPITALIZED ON NOTE CARDS
ADVANTAGES: FLEXIBILITY , COMMITTED TO THOUGHTS
SPONTANEITY WITH WORDS

PERMITS EXTRA CLARIFICATION, CONDENSATION,
AMPLIFICATiON
CONTACT WITH AUDIENCE (EYES)
100-120 WORDS PER MINUTE
DISADVANTAGES: INCOMPLETE PHRASEOLOGY
158
4. MANUSCRIPT SPEECH : OFTEN TECHNICAL REPORT;
CONTAINS COMPLEX INFORMATION OR EXTENSIVE STATISTICAL DATA
SUCH REPORTS DO NOT CONFORM WELL TO THE EXTEMPORANEOUS
TECHNIQUE
PREPARED LIKE A WRITTEN REPORT, IN FULL, BUT MORE PERSONAL

(II IT SEEMS TO MEII, II I'M REMII\II)ED OF ••. II)
TYPED IN FULL, SPACED, CAPITALIZED
HEADINGS UNDERLINED
(THREE TYPED. PAGES =5 MINUTES)
USES FACE 9 GESTURES. VOICE VARIATIONS
THE ABILITY TO COMMUNICATE IDEAS THROUGH SPEECH IS ONE OF HUMANITY'S

GREATEST GIFTS.
159
GUIDELINES TO GIVING AN ORAL
BEFORE YOU BEGIN
Thank the person who introduced you.

Acknowledge VIPs.
Greet the audience.
Establish a connection, local colour, something connected to your topic, to get the
audience to want to listen to YOU.
Give a really, really interesting fact from your topic to get the audience to want to listen
to YOUR TOPIC.
NOW BEGIN! GIVE YOUR THESIS STATEMENT
Give your subject and purpose, the topic of your text and the focus or purpose for which
you are examining your topic. Your speech or oral will make one point
THE BODY OF YOUR ORAL
Have your oral adequately memorized; do·not read your presentation, not even off the
2
monitor; use note cards. .
"Back your thesis statement with masses of data, explanation, examples, causes and
effects, physical descriptions, etc.
Repeat your subject and focus at least once in every paragraph of your oral
Allow 100 words per minute.
Use note carQ,s.
Highlight your oral with visuals, etc., PowerPoint, tactile objects, handouts, music, maps,
photographs.
OVER AND OUT!
Repeat your thesis statement and very briefly remind your audience of the most important
points you made in the body of your text.
Rephrase your main thought at the last so that the audience takes home the most
important point of your oral.
Pause, a long pause; lean towards the audience and offer to answer questions; if you
cannot answer a question, do not apologize: offer to research the answer.
REMOVE MATERIAL FROM COMPUTER. INTRODUCE THE NEXT SPEAKER
160
PHYSICAL ASPECTS OF SPEAKING
MOVEMENT: EYE CONTACT, ENTHUSIASM, NATURAL GESTURES

USES UP NERVOUS ENERGY,
MAKES YOU FEEL CONFIDENT,
ATTRACTS ATTENTION.
POINTING FINGER ••• EMPHASIZES
SIDEWARD STEP ••• SUGGESTS CONCLUSION
FORWARD STEP ••• SUGGESTS BEGINNING OF NEW POINT
GESTURE TO SHOW SIZE, SHAPE, SPEED, ETC.
AVOID NERVOUS MANNERISMS (SCRATCHING, TICKS, "UM")
FACE : AVOID DEADPAN, BE FRIENDLY

VOICE : LOW - HIGH
FAIRLY SLOW DELIVERY, PAUSE TO GIVE ABSORPTION TIME
VARY RATE OF DELIVERY
VARY VOLUME TO DRAW ATTENTION
VARY PITCH
ANY CHANGE CALLS ATTENTION. WHISPER! ETC.
AUDIENCE INTERACTION:
INTERPRET SMILES, SCOWLS, BORED OR PUZZLED LOOKS, FIDGETS, NODS
DISAGREEMENT, SLEEPY FACES
. .
GREETING MR. CHAIRMAN •.• ETC. --- FORMAL
LADIES & GENTLEMEN, MEMBERS --- INFORMAL
NOTES IN PALM.
161
ORAL - MARKING CRITERIA
INTERESTING TOPIC
CLEAR ~ COMRLETE INFORMATION
CORR~CT & APPROPRIATE INFORMATION
STYLE & VOCABULARY
EXPRESSION, GESTURE, VISUAL AIDS, PRESENCE
RESPONSE TO AUDIENCE
162
PRESS RELEASE
163
164
NEWS RELEASES
?URPOSE: publicity
Dir~ction: co~p:=tny publications and media, specifically newsp.apers,

rad1o, tel eVl.Sl.on, to the editor in the hope of approval for
pUblication or broadcast, therefore newsworthy and timely
TYPES
1. Information News Release
Inf9rmation about developrnents wi thin an organization, such as

meetings, appointments, promotions, expansions, new products; also
may demonstrate damage control following an adverse event such as
an oil spill or a harrassment case, expressing regret and detailing
corrective measures being taken
Information mayor' may not be newsworthy: environmental
issues are; promotions less so.
2. Public Service Announcments

Information is a service to the general public
Information may not be especially newsworthy, so if an
interesting angle or development exists it should be mentioned to
increase chance of media coverage
Encourages the public to attend a fundraising or educational
event; alerts the public to an event which might be beneficial to
society at large or to an element in soc~ety such as Seniors or the
handicapped or those in need of disease research, etc.
3. Media Events
Publicity about a given event, a human interest story or a

news item; the purpose of the press release is to persuade the
press to cover the event to raise awareness: a celebrity arriving
by helicopter before a rock show, students organizing a busload of
demonstrators bound for Parliament Hill, a birthday party for a
centenarian which seven generations of the family plan to attend.
Usually newsworthy; the more interesting or innovative the
event, the more newsworthy it is and the more likely to get
coverage.
165
-the items that you might submit could be about
a piofitable hiiing of an expert, shareholders
an increased dividend
a company oil discovery
a mining company locating gold
a new product
an oil spill being cleaned up, general public
a company harrassment suit
a hurrican relief collection
a lung cancer research raffle
a seniors craft fair
a walkathon by elementary students in aid of the blind
an actress semi-naked arriving by open trai·ler to advertise a new film
an POPUlar actor in Tux to dine at the Ritz before an autographing
Bill Gates to speak
166
AUDIENCE
Three types:
1. company personnel (relatively captive audience, must be
kept interested) .
2. the media (i tern must be persuasive, newsworth, timel y,
"copy ready")
print media rely heavily on pictures and good quotes
radio requires informed, articulate speakers wi 11 ing
to be interviewed on air
television likes stories with high visual appeal~
especially if there is some activity or action
3. the general publ ic- (acc-essibl e onl y through the media)
News' release ·may be directed to only one or two media sources, or

may be a blanket release to all local media
PRESENTATION, FORMAT
Pages
Either on letterhead or on standard-si=plain.
One page if possible, even legal size.
If more than one page the word "MORE" appears at the bottom of
each page being continued.
Pages are numbered successively in the upper rignt hand
corner.
At end of release the symbol 000 or -xxx- or -30- or ### is
centered.
Multiple pages are paper-clipped or stapled.
Font
Double spaced; five space paragraph indentation.
One irich blank between heading and first line of text (to
allow room for the editor to type a headline}
One inch margin all around.
Headings
At the top the heading FOR RELEASE appears with the date of
reI ease, or FOR RELEASE AFTER I or preferabi y the phrase FOR
IMMEDIATE RELEASE.
The organization title, address, city, postal code, the name
of the contact person, with office and home telephones follow.
167
PRESS RELEASE
Universite de Montreal Syndicat des Charges September 1, 2003
3744 Jean Brillant
Montreal, Qc., H3M 2N5
Contact: (Ms.) M. Smith, Presidente
514-937-5647 (office)
450-555-3456 (home)
~he Editor, Community News
Montreal Journal
4579 Sherbrooke, Est
Montreal, Qe., H4R 5~0
FOR RELEASE AF~ER·SEPTEMSER 5, 2003
Subject: Craft Fair
A Craft Fair with henefits going to the Children's 'Wish Foundation

will be held at the Universite de Montreal, 3200 Jean Brillant, 2,nd
floor, Saturday and Sunday, September 14 and 15, 2003, from 10:00
to 16:00 o'clock. Admissi~n is free.
Seventy-six kiosques wi 11 offer for sale crafts of different types:
quilting, wood carvings, ironwork, pottery, paintings, lace,
sculpture, leatherwork, stonework and more. Craftspersons will be
on si te selling, creating new pieces, and expl aining" their craft to
inter~ste~ onlo6kers.
-xxx-
168
Tone
Impersonal: the wri ter and the, company are referred to by
name, that is, "in the third person. (the Algae Organization, Mr.
Peters.)
Specific: dates are specific, rather than IItomorrow, this
week l l
Data must be timely, g~nuinely interesting news, local within
the broadcast, delivery area, ABSOLUTELY ACCURATE in factual data,
names, addresses, figures, spelling, etc.
Photographs
Clearly labeled with a description of the event and the names of a
any peopl e depicted, left to right Ot" ·counter-cl ockwise, attached
to t:he BACK.
Envelope
The words NEWS RELEASE ENCLOSED appear in the lower left-hand
corner of the envelope.
Print releases are directed to the editor of the department
(business, finance, fashion, etc.) using the editor's name.
Radio and television releases are directed to the news
director, with the proper name (although the item may be used in a
talk show, etc.)
TEXT
The lead paragraph carries the most important information,
,answering WHAT WHY WHO, WHERE, WREN, and HOW; with subsequent
I I
»aragraphs giving additional information in descending order of

importance. If the release is to be cut the editor cuts bottom up.
169
170
LETTERS
171
172
LETTERS clear, concise, complete, courteous
inform briskly, clearly
request specifically
reply appropriately
deny, refuse politely, positively
complain reasonably
critidze justly, justifiably
acknowledge gratefully, officially
congratulate warmly
reassure gently
apply knowledge~bly, effectively
173
IN A LETTER YOU WANT SOMETHING ....
to get what you want requires various techniques and various styles
If you want a favour be clear, reasonable, and deserving
If you want your money back be very logical, but firm
If you want a job do not plead

efficiency, effectiveness and a brisk list
of qualifications are your best strength
write an impeccable letter with energy
If you need to change an appointment write a "you" letter
If you think the are slow about answering give them an "out"
politeness and excusing them is your route
174
4512 Sherbrooke street, West, Apt. 201
Montreal, Que.
H4C 3N9
scott@studio.cali.ca
November 14, 2005
Mr. Ray Geiger, President
The Farmers' Almanac
39 Old Oak Lane
Chalk River, Onto
KIP T3C
Subject: Weather Forecasting in the Farmers' Almanac
Dear Mr. Geiger:
The Farmers' Almanac has been a part of the North American
tradition for a century and a half. The current publication is
reassuringly up to your usual standards. The weather forecasts are
curiously accurate.
The Western Quebec Meteorological Society, of which I am President,
would like to know if the Almanac forecasts are based on any data
apart from historical records and statistical analyses. We are
especially interested in finding out if your weather predictions
rely on physics equations, on geological theories, and on
biological trends.
Comments from your meteorological staff would be greatly
appreciated by members of the Society, and your contributions would
be cited in our annual publication.
Sincerely yours,
Western Quebec Meteorological Society
(Mr.) Leslie Scott, President

Tel. 450-473-6894
Fax. 450 473-6895
Lslac
encl.: self-addressed, stamped envelope
cc: Western Quebec Meteorological Society
175
Dear Professor Garden:
In answer to your inquiry about the best methods to introduce technical documentation, I
have enclosed several documents that answer your questions. The subject matter is one
of great importance in view of the high technology of the industrialized world.
The first paper atta~hed here is a proposal I submitted for a hypertext communication
program at this university. My personal views on the value and nature of such a course
series are in the document, which was approved, and has since been implemented. The
brochure explaining the course, along with a catalogue, are also annexed.
The second text enclosed with this letter is an article by my colleague at the University
of Puramor, Cleveland. expressing his views on such a program.
The program you are designing is important in the global electronic context and I wish
you great success in your efforts.
Sincerely,
John H. Wells
176
The Council of Faculty and Students
University of Quebec
1222 Quebec Avenue
Quebec, Que.
H3C4W2
November 20, 2002
Dr. Roger LeBeau, Dean
Faculty of Engineering and Computer Science
University of Quebec
1234 Quebec Avenue
Quebec, Que.
H2X5T3
The University has always been open to stude'nt concerns. Indeed, the Council of
Faculty and Students was established to evaluate internal problems. An event occurred
recently that warrants attention.
During the fall semester final exams a curious odour permeated the entire building.
Subsequent investigation indicated that no danger was associated with the emanation
but the smell was unpleasant and especially irritating to students with pulmonary
conditions. As a result of the odour, many students have expressed to the Council that
their results were not a true indication of their knowledge of subjects being tested.
The Council of Faculty and Studerits would appreciate a meeting with members of the
Decanal Team to evaluate the situation and, because of the reasonableness of the
University on previous occaSions, is confident that a solution can be found.
Council of Faculty and Students
Ii
" L..··L,'-._.-...............
(Ms.) Jeanne Annes, President
cc.: Council of Faculty and Students
177
2345 Esplanade Avenue, Apt.# 8A
Montreal, Qc.
H3C 4V5
lrons@alcor.mcgill.ca
November 23, 1999
Mr. Jeremy Silicone, Customer Relations

Mediacom Inc.
4190 st. Alexandre Street, East
St. Sulpice, Qc.
H4S 6F7
Dear Sir:
In october Mediacom sponsored a career event at the McGill Open

House. The function was well organized and very informative. Part
of the display feature was your in-house magazine of which samples
were available for distribution. Your representative urged viewers
to add their names to the mailing list for a free subscription. I
enjoyed the first two issues I received. I was somewhat dismayed,
however; when an invoice arrived the third month.
Because your company is well known and reputable I find it hard to

believe that your hostess misrepresented your offer. On the other
hand, whi I e your magazine is informa ti ve, it is not one I am
willing to pay for.
My inconvenience and expense to date involves aggravation, the time

it is taking me to wri te this letter asking you to cancel the
subscription and desist in your billing, and the cost of this
mailing which I feel obliged to send by registered post($5.32).
Mediacom's response to the situation is a matter of concern to me.
~incerely,
(Ms.) Jane E. Irons

450-473-6782
cc: McGill Alumni. Society
178
Soci;Ii dellilosport January 14, 1993
de'll Commllollllli.lllbllio.
de Maollill'
.Mrs. Mary Silas

Concordia University (ENCS #907)
1455, boulevard De Maisonneuve Ouest
Montreal, Quebec
H3G1M8
OIR: 92-0204
Re : BUS SHELTER
Mrs. Silas,
Please accept our apologies for the long delay· to answer your letter of last
A( 'Ett., MaulS,.
c.-U"'T~6U'S
April, requesting that a bus shelter be installed at the southeast comer of Cote-
des-Neiges Road. and Docteur-Penfield Av. On that subject, we would like to
A"AeT inform you of the following.
We have transmitted to Mediacom Inc. a list of potentially good sites in

Montreal for the installation of bus shelters. Mediacom Inc. is doing all of
&-oct,,- the bus shelters installations in the City. Mediacom will evaluate every site
"D7USTl1eNl' of this list for itsfeasability and commercial impact, since their bus shelters
~"I~·T corne equiped with a publicity pannel. Mediacom, and Mediacom alone, will
"e~,,"~,..TC~ ultimately decide to install or not a bus shelter.
p.~,,,,,,, ~.,.,
Yours very truly,
~.~~~
Richard Tremblay,
Network Planning Technician
Network Planning Division
c.c. STCUM - Customer Relations Section file #147785

Mr Jacques Larivee, Corporate Advisor
159, rue Saint·Antoine ouest

Montreal/Quebec)
H2Z IH3
179
180
6994 Roosevelt Avenue
outremont, Que.
G6D 7Y5
March 17, 1999
coro@vax2.concordia.ca
Mr. William R. Fox, President
Tangerine Fashions
12460 st~ Laurent Boulevard
Anjou, ~ue.
H4P 6G3
Subject: Employment
Dear Sir:
Tangerine Fashions have been appearing regularly and pleasingly in
fine women's apparel stores. The Fashion Buyer in Flair's
Department Store indicated to me that due to the popularity of your
Petite Elegant clothing lines, a new addition was being planned for
the Town and Country Set.
Fashion and fashion design is my vocation. In 1992 I completed a
degree in design at Concordia University, Montreal, and since that
time I have been lecturing in design both there and at the Montreal
School of Fashion. I have successfully marketed my own line of
girls' clothing.
While I continue to design for a young clientele, my skills and
ex~erience and inclination lend themselves to the career oriented
fashion lines. I would be interested in bringing my abilities into
your firm. Would the attached curriculum vitae be of interest to
you?
Yours truly,
Don Coromann
Tel. 450-734-5885
Fax 450-343-5672
enclosure
181
Template Letter of Reference
Back address (address of your referee)
Date
Inside Address (destination)
Subject: Letter of Refernce-Your Name
Salutation
Letter
Interesting, NSERC has a reputation for granting fellowships

true fact about in a wide variety of disciplines. It
Company or encourages scholarship, perseverence and
Scholarship excellence. Last year a total of were
Foundation awarded in the Faculty.
Student's Mr. Jonathan Brown exemplifies the values

(your) name, NSERC fellowships underline. His academic
accomplishments: record is exemplaiy, with a GPA of 3.8. His
specifically design for a 'dual fuel electric car was
at least three among\the finalists in the 2002-2003 Concordia
impressive, engineering competition. Mr. Brown was
length of time President of the Students' Association for
known two terms. During the three years I have
known him, he worked on a part-time basis
as a researcher in The Green Vehicle Company's
electrical department. He is industrious,
organized, and creative.
Expectations As he continues his post-graduate endeavours

Benefit to Mr. Jopathan Brown is certain to contribute
Company or to environmenatlly healthy transporation
Foundations methods. He is strongly recommended for the
award.
Complimenatry
closing
Signature and
Name and title
182
RES UME S
183
184
ACTION VERBS
Research skills
clarified, collected, critiqued, diagnosed, evaluated, examined,

extracted, identified, inspected, interpreted, interviewed,
investigated, obtained, organized, reviewed, summarized, surveyed,
systematized
Technical skills
assembled, built, calculated, computed, contructed, designed,
devised, engineered, fabricated, installed, maintained, .operated,
overhauled, programmed, remodeled, repaired, solved, trained,
upgraded
Teaching skills
adapted, advised, clarified, coached, communicated, coordinated,·

developed, enabled, encouraged, evaluated, explained, facilitated,
guided, informed, initiated, instructed, persuaded, served
Financial skills
administered, allocated, analyzed, appraised, audited, bablanced,

budgeted, calculated, compounded, computed, controlled, developed,
forecast, managed, planned, projected, researched
Creative skills
acted conceptualized, created, designed, developed, directed,

established, fashioned, founded, illustrated, instituted,
integrated, introduced, invented, originated, performed, planned
revitalized, shaped
Helping skills
assessed, assisted, clarified, coached, counseled, demonstrated,

diagnosed, educated, expedited, facilitated, familiarized, guided,
protected, referred, rehabilitated, represented
Clerical skills
approved, arranged, catalogued, classified, collected, compiled

dispatched, dispensed, distributed, executed, generated,
implemented, inspected, monitored, operated, organized, prepared,
processed, provided, purchased, received, recorded, retrieved,
routed screened, specified, systematized, tabulated, validated
other skills
conducted, conserved, detected, discovered, edited, expanded,

invented, maintained, prepared, promoted, realized, stabilized
185
186
INTERVIEWS
187
188
Questions asked by the employers
Tell me about yourself.

Why did you choose this college and how did you arrive at this decision?
What factors did you consider in choosing your major?
Of the courses you have had at college, which courses have you enjoyed the most?
Describe how your favorite course has contributed to your career interests:
Since you have been at college, what is it that you are proudest of?
How have you changed personally since starting college?
What has been your greatest challenge?
If you could change a decision you made while at college what would you change and why?
Why did you choose the campus involvements you did? What did you gain?
Describe a leadership role of yours and tell why you committed your time to it.
In a particular leadership role you had, what was your greatest challenge?
Give me an example of an idea that has come to you and what you did with it?
Give me an example of a problem you solved and the process you used?
Give me an example of the most creative project that you have worked on.
What work experiences have been most valuable to you and why?
Tell me about a project you initiated?
Describe the project or situation that best demonstrates your analytical abilities.
Since attending college, what is the toughest decision that you have had to make?
Tell me about your most difficult decision and how did you go about making it?
How have your educational and work experiences prepared you for this position?
What types of situations put you under pressure, and how do you deal with pressure?
Give me a situation in which you failed, and how you handled it.
Why are you interested in our organization?
What type of position are you seeking?
Where do you think your interest in this career comes from?
What industry besides this one are you looking into?
Why have you chosen this particular profession?
What interests you about this job?
What challenges are you looking for in a position?
What makes you think you can handle this position?
What can you contribute to this company?
Why should my company be interested in you?
What goals have you set for yourself? How are you planning to achieve them?
What is your most Significant accomplishment to date?
To what do you owe your present success?
What motivates you?
189
Some responses to questions difficult to answer
That's an interesting qustion; let me think about it for a few moments. Can we return to it later?
Could we come back to that question later in our discussion?
I'd like to reflect on that question.
What an int~resting question.! I'd like to research that concept.
I'd be interested in knowing that myself.
That's an interesting subjject to reflect on. I'd like to give it some time. Can we retum to it?
190
Questions asked by candidates
How would you describe the most successful employees in your company?
Can I expect oPP9rtunities for advancement with the company, if I work hard to prove myself?
If I do well, what will I be doing in five years?
How will I be evaluated in my job?
How often will I be evaluated?
Who supervises this position?
What is the chain of command for this position?
Where would my career progress from my first assignment?
How does your company encourage their new hires to keep pace with advancing technologies?
What can I do within the first five years to help ensure my success within the company?
What are advanced educational opportunities with XYZ organization (MS, MBA, etc.)?
May I someday invest in the company?
What training would I receive if hired?
How soon will I hear from you?
What does your company want from successful candidates for this job?
What would distinguish one candidate over another for this job?
How do I prove myself and my commitment to the company?
When would you want me to start in this position?
Does your company provide any financial assistance for further education?
Are salary adjustments geared to the cost of living or job performance?
What projects are in the development stage right now?
Do you have plans for expansion?
Have you cut your staff in the last three years?
Do you offer flextime?
What future changes do you see for this company?
Who are your competitors?
What plans does the company have for becoming more competitive in this industry?
What makes your company different from others?
If I were hired by your organization for this position, what duties would I be performing?
What will be expected of me in this position?
How much responsibility will I have?
191
192
SAMPLE PAGES
193
194
TIDAL POWER AS AN ALTERNATE ENERGY SOURCE
Jonathan D' Arienzo
195
ABSTRACT
Jonathan D' Arienzo
Tidal energy is receiving increasing attention as a viable energy source. Renewable energies are
beginning to replace carbon based forms of energy. Tidal energy is a seemingly limitless source of
energy and has the potential to supply the world's energy needs. New technologies are being developed
which are not only more efficient but can be used in various environments contrary to conventional
methods. These new technologies are also inexpensive and have little to no impact on the environment.
Canada is situated in an ideal location for harnessing tidal energy. Investing in these new technologies
would be beneficial and profitable for our future.
196
Jonathan D' Arienzo
Concordia University
Technical Writing and Communication, ENCS 282
June 5 2012
197
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Section Page
1. INTRODUCTION ..............................................................................................................................1
2. CURRENT SITUATION .....................................................................................................................2
3. TECHNOLOGIES ....................................................................................................................................3
3.1 The Oyster
3.2 Marine Hydro-kinetic
3.3 Modular Tidal Prism
4. BAY OF FUNDY ......................................................................................................................................7
5. PLAN ....................................................................................................................................................9
6. CONCLUSION .......................................................................................................................................11
APPENDICES
A. Memorandum
B. Description of Tidal Power
C. Green Technologies Currently in use in Canada
INDEX .................................................................................................................................................................15
REFERENCES .................................................................................................................................................16
ii
198
1. INTRODUCTION
Since the industrial revolution, the world has been relying on fossil fuels as its main energy
source. It was the only answer at the time for the energy needs required to advance civilisation;
however it has had many after-effects on life today. There has become a shortage of fossil fuels because
of unrestrained consumption and is making global warming an ever more prominent threat. Many
advances in renewable energies done in the past century have the potential to answer all of our energy
needs. One of the methods for generating renewable energy is through the power of tides; however it is
not commonly used.
The ocean is essentially an unlimited source of energy waiting to be harnessed. It is estimated
that the power generated by the tides on continental shelves alone is 2.5 Terawatts (TW). If only 2% of
this power were converted into usable energy it could deliver 200 400 TWh/annum [1]. This is ten times
the world's energy consumption in one year.
As of February, Canada was ranked 8th worldwide in renewable energy investments [2]. Canada
is also surrounded by three oceans which create the perfect occasion for implementing new
technologies to harness tidal power. It would not only aid the country in producing clean, renewable
energy but would also help the economy as any surplus of energy could be sold to other countries. Eight
provinces and three territories are bordered by water which provides them with the ideal opportunity to
gain from tidal energy.
199
2
2. CURRENT SITUATION
Tidal energy is currently one of the least popular forms of energy. Although there are roughly
one hundred projects in different stages for methods to generate power by tidal energy, the method of
barrages is the only one which has surpassed the prototype stage and is being used full scale [3]. A
barrage is similar to a dam in the way that it crosses a stream and converts the water flowing through
turbines in the structure into usable energy. The barrages currently in use have been operating for
decades and are a reliable source of energy [4]. Although the barrages are a reliable source of energy
they must be built in areas which contain tides of large amplitudes and currents greater than 1 m/s [5].
Only 30 sites in the world have been identified suitable for this method therefore it is not a good
method for most areas, including Canada [6]. Furthermore barrages are known to have negative
ecological impacts similar to those of hydroelectric dams. They can affect marine life and water quality
which over a long period of time may be detrimental to the nearby environment [7]. There is currently
no large scale tidal energy generating station in Canada.
200
3
3. TECHNOLOGIES
There are many technological methods used to generate usable energy from the power of tides.
The most popular of these methods is the use of barrages, which have had many negative aspects
including environmental issues and high construction costs [1]. Three technologies have the potential
for successfully collecting energy in Canada. The Oyster is a prototype which was developed in the
United Kingdom. The Marine Hydro-kinetic (MHK) method converts the kinetic energy of moving water
into electricity. The Modular Tidal Prism (MTP) concept converts tidal potential energy into kinetic
energy which can then be turned into usable energy.
3.1 The Oyster
The Oyster is known as a single oscillating body device [8]. The device is hinged at the sea bed
and oscillates with the tides or the waves. The flat section of the device is perpendicular to the velocity
of the waves so that a maximum amount of energy is transferred. As the device oscillates it activates
two hydraulic rams located at the bottom of the device which pump fluid to shore. The flow of the fluid
is used to create electricity. There are several other similar designs which function the same way
however they have different features such as the size or the type of fluid being pumped. The Oyster is
ideal for use in Canada because it is the largest design therefore it will convert a greater amount of
energy. It also pumps sea water instead of oil so if there is ever a malfunction or a leak there will be no
harm to the nearby environment. If the Oyster is to be deployed in a populated area, a smaller version
should be used so as to go unnoticed.
201
4
Figure 3.1.1: The Oyster fully extended
3.2 Marine Hydro-kinetic (MHK)
The MHK method converts the kinetic power of water generated by the tides into usable
energy. The water passes through turbines to create electricity similar to how a windmill uses air to
power a turbine [1]. This method can use many different setups of turbines depending on the
environment they are set up in. For large open areas with flow velocities of 1 m/s or greater, large
submerged turbine farms can be built. This method is ideal for any area with a high flow rate due to
tides because the tides are predictable and therefore it is a reliable source of energy. For areas with a
slower flow rate a new technology is being developed known as Vortex Induced Vibrations Aquatic Clean
Energy (VIVACE). As the water passes over cylindrical structures small vortexes are created. VIVACE uses
these vortexes to move a piston which then creates usable energy. This technology performed very well
in a laboratory and was able to harness SO watts per cubic metre (W/m3) compared to 21 W/m3 by the
202
5
leading system in use [9]. The MHK method should be used in any area with a moderate flow rate to
produce energy for the surrounding regions. The cost for constructing and maintaining the turbines is
relatively low for regions without complex oceanographic conditions such as most areas on the
continental shelf [10]. The cost of installing underwater turbines is much lower compared to the cost of
barrages, and they have little to no effect on the ecological environment [11]. In some cases, the
turbines can also be mounted inside a floating platform. The platform is then mounted to the seabed
using cables [12]. This method is advantageous because it can be easily installed, removed or repaired.
POSSIBLE TURBINE PLANT
Figure 3.2.1: Offshore Tidal Turbines [13] Figure 3.2.2: Floating Support [14]
3.3 Modular Tidal Prism
Modular Tidal Prism (MTP) is a concept that transforms tidal potential energy into kinetic energy
which can then be utilized to generate electricity. Areas with high flow velocities are uncommon
therefore many conventional methods for generating power from tides would be inefficient. In contrast,
areas with high tidal amplitudes, such as 3-4 m, are very common. There are very few methods which
203
6
can convert the potential energy of the tides directly into electricity and those that do exist are not very
efficient. The MTP method was discovered by observing natural occurrences of this phenomenon. It was
discovered that basins could be constructed which would fill and drain with each tidal passing [15]. This
method induces a fast flow rate which would then allow for turbines to be placed which would harness
the energy. The basins do not affect the tide because they are relatively small so that multiple basins
could be built in the same region. The energy produced by one hundred basins is capable of powering
3000 homes [16]. This method has little impact on the environment because the basins fill and drain
naturally with every tidal passing .
....................................................................................................................................
....................................................................................................................................
....................................................................................................................................
....................................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................................
',':.':":,'::.'..:.':..: ..,.:.':,',',.: ..:::::..,.: ..:,':::....,':....: ....::..:,.:..::......,..... ,':.': ..: ..:,'::::.':.... .':..: ..::....::::::.':,'::,''':::::.::::.'.':::.':.':.o:.'.':.'::,'.'
...................................................................................................................................
....................................................................................................................................
...................................................................................................................................
....................................................................................................................................
":::.':.'::,':::::.',':.'::.'.•,':•...:::,':..:. '::::::.'::::,'::,':::::....:::::::::::.':.'::.'::.'::.':::::.':.',':.':.o:::.':.':.':::.".':.':.':::::::::::::::.':,':.','.
..........................................................................
::::.'::::,':.'::: .*:.":.':::.'::::::,'::::::::::::.'::::.;.'.':::::.':::,':::::::••::::.',',':: ............',':,','::,'.'::::::::::::,':::::::::::.'::::,':::•
........................................................................
.....................................................................
....................................................................
::::.'::::,':::.o:::::.•..,' ....::.','::::::........::.'.. ,':,':::::..:::::.':::::::..•
.................................................................
...............................................................
..............................................................
.............................................................
............................................................
...........................................................
...........................................................
...........................................................
..........................................................
.........................................................
.........................................................
:::::::.': .. ..
..........: : :.',','.':,':::::::.':::::,':::.'::::::.',':::::.'
.. .. .. .. ..
':.'::::::::,':.'.':::.' : ,'::.'::,' ,':,',': :::::: ::,',':,'::....:::.
'::::.'::::::::.'::,':::. '::::.'::.':,','.'::::.",'::.':::.','::::::.'.'
.:.'..,.:::..:,'::::::.. ,'...o.
. ................
....................
::.':•.: ..: ..,'::,'::::::....::::.. .'::::,':::.....o.'::::::.':::....: .':.
.. .. .... .. .. .. ..
'::.':.'. '........: : :.'::: ,':: ,'.'::: ::: ::.':: :::::::: : .....
......................................................
....................................................... .... ::::.'::::::: .'::::.','.
.................
:::.' ::::::.'::::::.','. ..
.......................................................
.......................................................
....................................................... 1"""""1'"""""~-li•. :.:;.:;.:.:.:.::.::.::.::.:.:.:
.',':.'::::
::::.',',',':....:::.':. '.':::,':::::.'::::,',',',''':.'::.'::.'::::'',',':: ....................
................. .
::....:. '.o.'. ':.','.','::::::::.'::.':,':::..::.'::......•.::,',':.'
.......................................................
...................................................... " :::::.'::::::::.-::::
.......................................................
......................................................
.'.':.':::,':.'.'::::. ','.',':.':::. ':.'::::::.','::.':.':"::..:::....,':::,'
.'::.':.':,'::.....'::::..:,':,'::::::::::.. ..,'::.':......::::.. ..,':
.',' ,',':
......................
............................. ...............................
....................................
.....................................................................
.::..::....::::,':..::,'::..::::..,'::,.,'::......: ..:.':..:::::::::.','.....
':.'.':. ','.'::::::..,' ..,',':..:..: ....,'::.','::..: ....:::::..:::,'.'::....:::.
•: ::::.':••.':.'::: ••,' ••,'.'::••••••••,','.',' •• ,':,'o'.'••: ••: •• :::: •• : •• :::::•• :::::.'.'::,',': ••• ':•
.:::.':..: ......:::,'::..,':.'..•... .o..:.':.'..: ..,'.' ....::::::.':,':,','.':,'::..,'o'•• ::,.,' ••:,': •• :.'•
.......................................................
.......................................................
......................................................
.... .................................................................
.....................................................................
.......................................................
.......................................................
.':.':.':. '.o:::.':::.':,'.':. ','.',':::,' ..::.':....::::.':::::,':.'::.','::. :~:\::::::.::::/:::::::?::::.:::.:::.::Lcnd:::.:::.::::::::/:::::::::/::::::.:::.:::~:\((?
'::,'::,':::..: ..,'.'......,',':::.'::.':.. ::..:::,':::.':.':::.'::.',',':::: ::::,':::,'::: ..: .. .'::.. ,',','::.' .•..:::::::..::,',':::.o::..... ':::,':::.': ..,'. ':.' .':.",':,'.'.
.......................................................
...................................................... ....................................................................
.................................................................
........................................................................ ..
.......................................................
...................................................... .................................................................. ..
'.','.':.o:.','. '..•.:.'.'::....:::.. ,':::.o: ..,':..::.o:•. ,':,': ..::....::::,'.•: ':.o:::::.':::.', '.o:::: ..: ..: ..: ......: ..:::..:::,'..: ..::..:::..: ..,','.' ..:,':::::....,':.. ,'::
.',':.',':: ::......::..... '.','::,'::::.'::.o: ....::::::.'::.'::. ','.o:::: . . ','.':::.',',':..,'::::....: ..: .. ,' ....,' ...o.o::..::::..: ..::::.':... '..,' .. .',':,':::::.......•:,':o'
Ocean
Figure 3.3.1: Representation of Modular Tidal Prism
204
7
4. BAY OF FUNDY
The Bay of Fundy is located near Nova Scotia and harbours some of the highest tides in the
world, reaching over 18m in some locations [17]. The cause of these unusually large tides stems from
the natural tidal period of the system and the lunar tidal period being nearly the same which causes the
system to be near resonant [18]. The estimated exploitable energy is equal to 15 percent of Canada's
current annual electrical consumption [19]. Until recently the only efficient method for harnessing the
energy from tides was using a barrage; however a barrage would have a severe negative impact on the
local region. A barrage could potential push the system closer to resonance which could increase tides
by 20-30 percent in the Bay of Fundy and Gulf of Maine which would have severe consequences [19].
New technologies such as in stream tidal turbines would allow for the energy from the tides to be
converted into electricity without having a large impact on the nearby environment. Tidal turbines are
also more cost effective and more convenient to install [20]. Adding too many turbines to the region
could have an effect on the tides further along the stream therefore the turbines should be added in
various phases so that the effects on the environments can be monitored [21]. A considerable amount
of power, such as 2.5 gigawatts can be extracted with only a 5% change in tidal amplitude [22]. The
turbines should be placed at the location in the pass with the highest tidal flow, which will also be one of
the narrowest points. The current can reach speeds of 5 metres per second, along with a flow of 106 m3
per second [17] [20]. The Bay of Fundy would be an excellent starting point for investing in tidal energies
because of the huge amount of energy the tides create four times per day. The energy generated from
the tides in the region would be able to replace carbon-based electricity in Nova Scotia [7].
205
8
Figure 4.1: Contrast oftides at a harbour in Bay of Fundy
206
9
5. PLAN
Tides are very predictable and abundant in both potential and kinetic energy. With the proper
technologies it could be feasible to replace the energy generated by fossil fuels with green technologies,
and tidal energy has the potential to become the leading source renewable energy. The Bay of Fundy is
an ideal starting location for Canada to start implementing tidal energy because it has the highest
potential and the lowest chance of failure [23]. The only possible negative effect from harnessing tidal
energy from the region would be an impact on the nearby environment. Using in stream tidal turbines,
the impact would be fairly low [21]. The turbines should be placed in the portion of the passage with the
highest flow rate which will also be one of the narrowest areas. The turbines should be placed at the
mouth of the Minas Passage for optimal results [20] [24].
Figure 5.1: Minas Passage in Bay of Fundy
207
10
Although the Bay of Fundy is the most promising area in Canada for tidal power, there are many
other places with high tidal flow rates and high tidal amplitudes. There are areas in the Northern
Territories or near Victoria Island where a high flow rate is present and tidal turbines can be placed. The
cost of turbines and the impact on the environment is much lower than that of conventional barrages
[1] [10]. In areas with high tidal amplitudes, Modular Tidal Prisms can be used to convert the potential
energy of the tides into kinetic which can then be harnessed with the use of turbines [5]. Vortex Induced
Aquatic Clean Energy can be used in areas which do not experience high tidal flows but have moderate
to low flow rates. Oysters can be placed along shorelines in uninhabited areas or smaller versions can be
placed alone any shoreline with moderate tidal or wave activity. All methods should be tested small
scale first in various regions to test the efficiency of each method and determine which regions are more
promising. The cost of the technologies and the impact on the environment from tidal energy are much
lower than many other forms of energy which would make it a great investment for Canada.
Figure 5.2: Areas with high mean potential power [25)
208
11
6. CONCLUSION
With increasing demand for renewable energies, tidal energy has regained popularity in the past
few decades. New technologies have been invented and are ready to be exploited. Canada is currently
ranked 8th on the renewable energy index and can move higher by investing in tidal energy. Three main
technologies can be of use to Canada; the Oyster, Marine Hydro-kinetic technologies and Modular Tidal
Prisms. The Bay of Fundy is the most promising area to harness energy from tides; however there are
many other areas which would yield large amounts of power as well. Investing in Tidal energy is a smart
plan for Canada; it is a clean energy with relatively low costs and little impact on the environment.
Canada has the resources to harness power solely from green energies and tidal energy is the next step.
209
APPENDIX A
210
MEMO
TO: M. Silas
FROM: Jonathan 0' Arienzo
DATE: 2012-05-08
SUBJECT: Water as renewable energy
Renewable energies are an infinite source of power which if harnessed correctly can supply enough
electricity to meet the planet's demand. Hydroelectricity is one of the current leading renewable
energies because of the abundance of water on the planet and the high efficiency of harnessing the
energy from the water. The most common method for harnessing the power of water is by the use of a
dam. The water enters a turbine from a higher reservoir and exits into a lower reservoir; the difference
in height of the two reservoirs is proportional to the potential energy that can be acquired. There is
research being developed into new methods to harness the energy of water which focuses on the power
generated by the ocean.
211
APPENDIX B
212
Description of Tidal Power
Tidal power is the energy generated by the tides which can then be harnessed and converted
into electricity. Tides are a result of the gravitational effect from the sun and the moon on earth's
oceans [26]. The common pattern for tides is a semidiurnal variation which means the tides occur twice
per day. Each cycle has a high tide and a low tide, and although two cycles occur per day in most cases,
they are not necessarily the same. If the cycles from the gravitational effects on a body of water are
similar to the natural cycles of the same body of water then the body will be resonant. This effect
creates unusually large amplitudes in the tides, which is the phenomenon that takes effect in the Bay of
Fundy. The method for harnessing tidal energy and wind energy are similar; however water is 832 times
denser then air which means there is a greater amount of energy available in tides [26].
213
APPENDIXC
214
Green technologies currently in use in Canada
Canada is currently ranked 8th on the world energy index because it has been investing into
renewable energies for several years. Depending on the region, certain methods for collecting
renewable energy may be more effective than others. Hydroelectricity is a popular form of renewable
energy in many parts of Canada because of its high efficiency and reliability. Wind turbines are placed in
several regions on and off shore because of their convenience and low costs. Solar energy is used in
several locations by the use of photovoltaic cells. Biomass is being used in several regions as an
alternative to carbon based fuels [2]. Geothermal energy is beginning to gain in popularity because once
it is installed it is a reliable source of heat and is inexpensive to exploit. Geothermal energy can be used
in steam power plants or as geothermal heating.
215
INDEX
Advance, 1 Ocean, 1, 5, 12,13

Amplitude, 2, 5, 7, 10, 13 Opportunity, 1
Oscillate, 3
Barrage, 2, 3, 7, 10 Oyster, 3, 4, 10, 11
Basin, 6
Popular, 2, 3, 11, 14
Civilisation, 1 Power, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7,10, 11, 12, 13, 14
Consumption, 1, 7 Prototype, 2, 3
Convert, 1,2,3,4,6, 7,10,13
Cost, 3, 5, 7,10,11,14 Main, 1, 5, 7, 11
Marine, 2, 3, 4, 11
Dam, 2,12 Method, 1,2,3,4,5,6, 7, 10, 12,13, 14
Design, 3
Negative, 2, 3, 7, 9
Effect, 1, 5, 7, 9,13,14
Efficient, 5, 6, 7, 11, 12, 15 Potential, 1,3,5,6, 7, 9, 10, 12
Energy, 1,2, 3,4,5,6, 7, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14
Environment, 2, 3,4, 5,6, 7, 9, 10, 11 Renewable, 1, 2, 11, 12, 14
Electricity, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7,12,13,14
Shortage, 1
Flow, 2, 3,4, 5, 6, 7,9, 10 Source, 1, 2, 4, 11, 12, 14
Structure, 2, 4
Generate, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 9,12,13
Global,l Technology, 1, 3,4, 7,9, 10, 11, 14
Tide, 1,2,3,4,5,6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13
Harness, 1, 2,4, 6, 7, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13 Turbine, 2,4, 5, 6, 7, 9, 10, 12, 14
Ideal, 1, 3,4,9 Unlimited, 1

Impact, 2,6, 7, 9,10, 11
Implement, 1,9,10 Velocity, 3
Industrial, 1
Install, 5, 7, 14 Water, 1, 2, 3,4, 5, 12, 13
Invest, 1, 7, 10, 11, 14 Watt, 1,4,7
World, 1, 2, 14
Kinetic, 3,4, 9, 10, 11
216
REFERENCES
1. Khangaonkar, Tarang et al.," Overland Tidal Power Generation Using Modular Tidal Prism,"
Eastuarine and Coastal Modeling Conference 2009,2009,467
2. "Renewable Energy Country Attractiveness Indices," Ernest and Young, February 2012, 14,
http://email-emeia.ey-vx.com!exchange-sites/732!5502!landing-pages!cai-issue-32-feb-2012-
v2.pdf
3. Falcao, Antonio F. de O. ,"Wave energy utilization: A review of the technologies," Renewable

and Sustainable Energy Reviews, Volume 14, Issue 3, April 2010, 904
4. Cummins, Patrick F.," On the Extractable Power from a Tidal Channel," Journal of Waterway,
Volume 138, Issue 1, Technical Papers, February 2012,63
5. Khangaonkar et aI., 466
6. Xi a, Junqiang et aI., "Impact of different operating modes for a Severn Barrage on the tidal
power and flood inundation in the Severn Estuary, UK," Applied Energy, Volume 8, Issue 7, July
2010,2375
7. Hasegawa, Daisuke et aI., "Far-field effects of tidal energy extraction in the Minas Passage on
tidal circulation in the Bay of Fundy and Gulf of Maine using a nested-grid coastal circulation
model," Ocean Dynamics, Volume 61, Issue 11, August 30, 2011, 1847
8. Falcao, 910
9. ,Alexis, "Taping the Vortex for Green Energy," Wired.com, October 28,2008, n.p.,
http://www.wired.com!wiredscience!2008!10!hidden-vortex-i/
10. Khangaonkar et aI., 468
11. "Tidal Energy," Ocean Energy Council, 2012, n.p.,

http://www.oceanenergycouncil.com!index.php!Tidal-Energy/Tidal-Energy.html
12. Wang, Shujie et aL, "Design and Stability Analyses of Floating Tidal Current Power Generation
Test Platform," Power and Energy Engineering Conference (APPEEC), March 2010, 1
13. "Tidal Energy," IndiaDevine.org, June 18, 2003, n.p., http://www.indiadivine.org!audarya!world-

review!32984-tidal-energy.html
14. Wang et aI., 3
15. Khangaonkar et aL, 475
217
17
16. Hasegawa et aI., 1845
18. Karsten, R. H. et aI., "Assessment of tidal current energy in the Minas Passage, Bay of Fundy,"
Journal of Power and Energy, March 17,2008,493
19. Karsten et aI., 494
20. Karsten et aI., 498
22. Serrao, Dora, Interview, May 27, 2012
23. Cummins, 68
24. Johnson, Jessica, "Tidal Energy in Canada," Tidal Energy Conference, January 23, 2006, 7
25. "Tidal Power", Blue Energy, January 8th 2009, n.p.,

http://www.bluenergy.com/tidalpower.html
218
All rights reserved.
In accordance with Canadian Copyright Law,
reproduction of this material, in whole or
in part, without prior written consent
of individual authors and/or publishers
is strictly prohibited.
Concordia University Bookstore has obtained copyright clearance and paid all
applicable royalties for works contained in this anthology as per its agreement with COPIBEC.
Publications not covered under the COPIBEC licence have been dealt with directly.
Concordia University Bookstore
978-1-77122-010-1
THIS COURSEPACK IS NON-REFUNDABLE

ENCS 282 Technical Communication_M. Silas,
Concordia University Bookstore
11111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111
11053095

ENCS 282 - Coursepack

Caricato da

Informazioni sul documento

Copyright

Formati disponibili

Condividi questo documento

Condividi o incorpora il documento

Opzioni di condivisione

Hai trovato utile questo documento?

Questo contenuto è inappropriato?

Copyright:

Formati disponibili

ENCS 282 - Coursepack

Caricato da

Copyright:

Formati disponibili

Technical Writing

FACULTY OF ENGINEERING AND COMPUTER SCIENCE

TECNICAL WRITING AND COMMUNICATION

Hard copy styles 17

Technical writing style 25

Report writing procedure, six questions 29

Organization and transition 31

Beginning and ending reports 40, 104

Dedicated/designated informal reports 91

Solution reports 103

Formal reports 115

Library orientation 141

Oral reporting 155

Press release 163

Letters and memos 173

Sample pages 195

USING STYLE AS A STRATEGY

diplomatic style which appeals

negative style which repels

appropriate, expository tone, business style, elegant, precise

"emotion and emotionally charged words

Highly technical message

Specialized readers expect highly technical data with technical terms

Less qualified or specialized readers expect data to be explained and interpreted

FORMAL suggests expertise

Long involved sentences

INFORMAL suggests forthrightness

Less involved sentences without looseness of colloquialisms

"very important persons"

COLLOQUIAL suggests neighbourhood friendship

Used for speaking informally to equals

Human resources information:

WRITING PRESENTATION STYLE READING

exam questions informal and formal reports texts, journals

article for newspaper informal reports newest developments

notes from 282 informal and formal dictionaries

Printed Document computer Screen

Technical writing is the branch of literature that communicates scientific or technical

5. TITLE AND DRAFf

PARAGRAPH TITLE SHORT REPORT

One sentence announcing idea, attracts reader One paragraph announcing

Several sentences supporting educates reader several paragraphs supporting

Transitions offer relations between ideas

3. REPETITION OR WORD OR PHRASE: Many fur-bearing beasts hibernate. Fur is a great

4. TRANSITIONAL WORDS OR PHRASES: Transitional words or phrases indicate a link:

A void putting transitional words and phrases first in the sentence

Signal the reader

Order: first, second, next, second to last, last, final

Concession: even though, although, despite, nevertheless, however, etc.

Adding-on: moreover, also, another, one interesting feature, etc.

ego -Montreal universities serve their community. They offer a

Montrealers from the whole city are fortunate that a greet

Besides meintaining high academic standards, Montreal"s academia

4.b)Transitional sentences - closing

ego ... It permits students a range of indiYidw~l or team sports where

Campuses have always encouraged a healthy social atmosphere.

ego ·Something else however was coming my way.-

-I· was little prepared for what was to come.-

-rhese plans fai1eed. The next succeeded:

-So this phase of our trip proved to be a cpomplete waste of our

Ihe 244 spray must be considered effective in controlling

-In chapter 1 and other early chapters we have given blief

"To be or not to be" reflects man's cry of desperation.

2. SUMMARY, REPETITION OF MAIN POINTS OF BODY