Overview

The purpose of Clear Thinking and Writing, 2/e is to help teach students, in a step-by-step way, the essential skills needed to think and write with clarity. Featuring expanded chapter content from the previous edition, the book also includes guidance on the writing process, common writing patterns, argumentation in writing, and information on writing a research paper. The last part of the text serves as a grammar and punctuation handbook, teaching students these critical skills that are part of good writing.

Key Features

Emphasis on clear thinking. A basic truth at the heart of any thoughtful communication of ideas is that (1) a point is made and (2) that point is supported. Clear Thinking and Writing, 2/e presents what students need to do to become better thinkers and writers. Here is what's covered in the book:

• Part One focuses on the two basic steps in clear thinking and effective writing: making a point and supporting that point. When students understand the difference between point and support, they have the groundwork they need to think and write clearly. Part One also explains and illustrates the steps in the process of writing both paragraphs and essays.
• Part Two introduces and provides practice in common writing patterns. In addition, students will learn how to research a topic. They will also be given a wide range of writing assignments to apply what they've learned.
• Part Three features a complete grammar and punctuation handbook. Most handbook chapters begin with a short review to determine if students need to work on a particular skill. If they do, the chapter will teach them what they need to know and provide activities and tests so they can learn in the best possible way--through doing.

Frequent practice. Abundant practice is essential to learning, so this book includes numerous writing activities: personal and objective paragraphs and essays as well as research topics.

High interest level. Dull and unvaried practices and assignments work against learning. Students need to experience genuine interest in the practice materials they work through and a diversity of choices in the assignments they write. The book provides compelling content as well as a wide range of assignments.

Ease of use. The logical sequence in the chapters--from clear explanation to example to practice to mastery test--helps make every aspect of writing easier to teach.