ENGL 4530 Adv. Writing for Business and Industry

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Project 4: Prepare a Proposal

 

Overview and Rationale

This assignment will help you consider the types of information and rhetorical strategies used in writing a proposal--an important type of workplace document--as well as the steps in preparing it. Think about a problem on campus or in your workplace that needs to be solved--one that you know enough about to consider possible solutions.

Project Description

Your document should be substantial in the sense that it shows you have researched the type of document you prepare, that you've developed thoughtful and appropriate content, that you've carefully planned and designed the document, and that you've considered the audience and purpose in your execution. The final propsal length should be about 5 to 7 pages (not counting graphics or appendices), single spaced with appropriate headings and subheadings. ( If you work on a proposal for your workplace that is based on a Request for Proposal (RFP), you'll need to follow any and all guidelines in that document. Please turn in the RFP if you are responding to one.)

  1. Begin by reading about proposals (pages 420-440 in BWH and Harty pages 231-273. I also will provide links to information that I have about some types of proposals. You should also search for other information about the topic your proposal involves.) Here is a link to the additional information about proposals.
  2. Identify the problem you are proposing to solve.
  3. Research solutions as necessary.
  4. Plan the proposal. Think about what sections you need, what level of information and explanation you need to include, what details need to be in the proposal and which need to go into appendices. Decide what additional supporting materials you need to append.
  5. Develop, revise, and edit your proposal.
  6. Use the discussion forum provided on Blackboard to peer review documents.
  7. Write a 2 page memo to accompany your proposal that explains the purpose, audience, context, type and use of the document, conventions that inform the design and writing of the document, and any other information that you think I should know as I evaluate your work.