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Patrick Barry
This course will teach you how to use your written words to become more persuasive. You’ll learn creative ways to use syntax, effective techniques for telling stories, and a clever method for arranging a complex series of information. You’ll also get a chance to both professionalize your use of punctuation and add a bit of style and sophistication to how you craft everything from sentences to slogans.
Read more
This course will teach you how to use your written words to become more persuasive. You’ll learn creative ways to use syntax, effective techniques for telling stories, and a clever method for arranging a complex series of information. You’ll also get a chance to both professionalize your use of punctuation and add a bit of style and sophistication to how you craft everything from sentences to slogans.
Read more
This course will teach you how to use your written words to become more persuasive. You’ll learn creative ways to use syntax, effective techniques for telling stories, and a clever method for arranging a complex series of information. You’ll also get a chance to both professionalize your use of punctuation and add a bit of style and sophistication to how you craft everything from sentences to slogans.
In addition, you’ll get access to a wide range of books and other resources you can use even after you finish the course. These include (1) the readings and exercises provided to the students who have taken the in-person version of this course at the University of Michigan and the University of Chicago; (2) two digital libraries of excellent writing from a diverse collection of journalists, scientists, novelists, poets, historians, and entrepreneurs; and (3) a monthly “Good Sentences” email. Social media has only accelerated the ways in which we all must learn to use our writing to connect, compete, and create—sometimes all at once. So join us for this first course in a four-part series and experience the many benefits, both personal and professional, of becoming “good with words.”
Register for this course and see more details by visiting:
OpenCourser.com/course/fag5vn/writing
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What's inside
Syllabus
The Words Under the Words
In this first week, you will be introduced to instructor Patrick Barry. This week's course content will focus on how the words you choose can change the decisions that people make.
Read more
Syllabus
The Words Under the Words
In this first week, you will be introduced to instructor Patrick Barry. This week's course content will focus on how the words you choose can change the decisions that people make.
Read more
The Infinite Power of Grammar
This week, we will focus on how the order of the words you choose can change the decisions people make.
The Rule of Three
In Week Three, we will focus on combining word choice with word order.
The Power of the Particular
Our final week will focus on filling our writing with compelling details.
Good to know
Good to know
Know what's good ,
what to watch for , and
possible dealbreakers
Designed to improve writing effectiveness in both personal and professional contexts
Suitable for learners with varying backgrounds and experience levels in writing
Patrick Barry, an experienced instructor, leads the course
Provides access to resources beyond the course duration, including readings, exercises, and email updates
Covers essential principles of effective writing, such as word choice, grammar, sentence structure, and detail
Emphasizes the practical application of writing skills in various contexts, including persuasion and communication
Save this course
Save Writing and Editing: Word Choice and Word Order to your list so you can find it easily later:
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Reviews summary
Writing skills for persuasion
learners say this course on writing and editing will improve their:writing quality through the effective word choice and word order. Structured videos, readings, and assignments help students develop their professional communication skills. Instructor Patrick Barry’s engaging materials and diverse references make the learning experience enjoyable.
The course also covers the importance of word order and how it can affect the meaning of a sentence.
"This class is really good to become a good writer and I have learned a lot during this course I took."
In addition to improving their writing skills, students will also learn how to communicate more effectively in a professional setting.
"This course is actually beneficial for the beginner writer's, everything is explained with suitable example."
"Everything was great in this course. The content and the way of teaching of the professor were just excellent!"
Barry draws on a wide range of sources, including literature, law, and current events, to illustrate his points.
"The course has been awesome; so well designed and conducted with good number of examples, references, and supplementary readings."
"This course provides you with practical, memorable truisms that strengthen your ability to effectively communicate to an audience or decision-maker."
Students learn to select the most powerful and appropriate words to convey their message.
"This course kept my attention and had me anxiously awaiting the next video."
"This course helped my non-english native speaaker use word much precise and approiacte"
The course instructor, Patrick Barry, is an engaging and experienced teacher who makes learning fun.
"Professor Barry is an amazing mentor."
"Professor Barry has a really unique way of teaching."
"Prof. Barry is an excellent teacher."
This course teaches you how to use specific words and phrases to achieve your desired outcome in writing.
"I’ve learned more about writing in this one course than in my entire college experience."
"A very inspiring and much needed course that will start you on a journey that was important and ignored."
"Excellent course! the best course I have taken thus far reviewing the basics was fun! thank you professor"
Activities
Be better prepared
before
your course. Deepen your understanding
during
and
after
it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered
in Writing and Editing: Word Choice and Word Order with these
activities:
Read 'On Writing Well' by William Zinsser
Show steps
Expand your understanding of writing principles and techniques by reading a classic guidebook on the subject.
View
Extraordinary Lives
on Amazon
Show steps
-
Read the book thoroughly, taking notes on key concepts.
-
Reflect on the insights and advice presented in the book.
-
Apply the principles you learn to your own writing.
Review grammar rules
Show steps
Refresh your understanding of the basics of English grammar, including parts of speech, sentence structure, and punctuation.
Browse courses on
Grammar
Show steps
-
Review the parts of speech and their functions.
-
Identify the different types of sentences and their structures.
-
Practice identifying and correcting common grammar errors.
Sentence structure exercises
Show steps
Reinforce your understanding of sentence structure by completing exercises that focus on identifying and constructing sentences.
Browse courses on
Sentence Structure
Show steps
-
Identify the subject, verb, and object in a given sentence.
-
Rewrite sentences using different sentence structures.
-
Combine sentences to create more complex sentences.
Five other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all eight activities
Join a writing group
Show steps
Engage in collaborative learning and receive feedback on your writing from peers.
Browse courses on
Writing
Show steps
-
Find a writing group that aligns with your interests.
-
Participate actively in the group discussions and activities.
-
Submit your work for feedback from other members.
-
Provide constructive feedback to other members.
Follow a writing workshop
Show steps
Gain structured guidance and feedback on your writing by participating in a writing workshop.
Browse courses on
Writing
Show steps
-
Find a reputable writing workshop that aligns with your interests.
-
Participate actively in the workshop exercises and discussions.
-
Submit your work for feedback from the instructor and other participants.
-
Use the feedback to revise and improve your writing skills.
Write a persuasive essay
Show steps
Apply the principles of persuasive writing to craft an essay that effectively argues a specific point of view.
Browse courses on
Persuasive Writing
Show steps
-
Choose a topic and develop a clear thesis statement.
-
Research and gather evidence to support your argument.
-
Organize your essay into an effective structure.
-
Write a compelling introduction and conclusion.
-
Proofread and edit your essay for clarity and persuasiveness.
Attend a writing retreat
Show steps
Immerse yourself in a dedicated writing space away from distractions, allowing you to focus on your writing and receive guidance from experienced writers.
Browse courses on
Writing
Show steps
-
Find a writing retreat that meets your needs.
-
Attend the retreat and participate fully in the activities.
-
Use the time and space to work on your writing projects.
Create a writing portfolio
Show steps
Organize and showcase your best writing pieces to demonstrate your skills and progress.
Browse courses on
Portfolio
Show steps
-
Select your strongest writing samples.
-
Create a portfolio website or document.
-
Present your portfolio in a professional and engaging manner.
Read 'On Writing Well' by William Zinsser
Show steps
Expand your understanding of writing principles and techniques by reading a classic guidebook on the subject.
View
Extraordinary Lives
on Amazon
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Read the book thoroughly, taking notes on key concepts.
- Reflect on the insights and advice presented in the book.
- Apply the principles you learn to your own writing.
Review grammar rules
Show steps
Refresh your understanding of the basics of English grammar, including parts of speech, sentence structure, and punctuation.
Browse courses on
Grammar
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Review the parts of speech and their functions.
- Identify the different types of sentences and their structures.
- Practice identifying and correcting common grammar errors.
Sentence structure exercises
Show steps
Reinforce your understanding of sentence structure by completing exercises that focus on identifying and constructing sentences.
Browse courses on
Sentence Structure
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify the subject, verb, and object in a given sentence.
- Rewrite sentences using different sentence structures.
- Combine sentences to create more complex sentences.
Five other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all eight activities
Join a writing group
Show steps
Engage in collaborative learning and receive feedback on your writing from peers.
Browse courses on
Writing
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find a writing group that aligns with your interests.
- Participate actively in the group discussions and activities.
- Submit your work for feedback from other members.
- Provide constructive feedback to other members.
Follow a writing workshop
Show steps
Gain structured guidance and feedback on your writing by participating in a writing workshop.
Browse courses on
Writing
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find a reputable writing workshop that aligns with your interests.
- Participate actively in the workshop exercises and discussions.
- Submit your work for feedback from the instructor and other participants.
- Use the feedback to revise and improve your writing skills.
Write a persuasive essay
Show steps
Apply the principles of persuasive writing to craft an essay that effectively argues a specific point of view.
Browse courses on
Persuasive Writing
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Choose a topic and develop a clear thesis statement.
- Research and gather evidence to support your argument.
- Organize your essay into an effective structure.
- Write a compelling introduction and conclusion.
- Proofread and edit your essay for clarity and persuasiveness.
Attend a writing retreat
Show steps
Immerse yourself in a dedicated writing space away from distractions, allowing you to focus on your writing and receive guidance from experienced writers.
Browse courses on
Writing
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find a writing retreat that meets your needs.
- Attend the retreat and participate fully in the activities.
- Use the time and space to work on your writing projects.
Create a writing portfolio
Show steps
Organize and showcase your best writing pieces to demonstrate your skills and progress.
Browse courses on
Portfolio
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Select your strongest writing samples.
- Create a portfolio website or document.
- Present your portfolio in a professional and engaging manner.
Career center
Learners who complete Writing and Editing: Word Choice and Word Order will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
Content Writer
Content Writer
As a Content Writer, you create written content for a variety of purposes, such as marketing, advertising, and social media. This course can help you develop the skills you need to be successful in this role by teaching you how to use your written words to become more persuasive. You will learn creative ways to use syntax, effective techniques for telling stories, and a clever method for organizing a complex series of information.
Marketing Manager
Marketing Manager
As a Marketing Manager, you develop and execute marketing campaigns to promote products and services. This course can help you develop the skills you need to be successful in this role by teaching you how to use your written words to become more persuasive. You will learn creative ways to use syntax, effective techniques for telling stories, and a clever method for organizing a complex series of information.
Project Manager
Project Manager
As a Project Manager, you plan, execute, and close projects. This course can help you develop the skills you need to be successful in this role by teaching you how to communicate effectively in writing with stakeholders. You will learn creative ways to use syntax, effective techniques for telling stories, and a clever method for organizing a complex series of information.
Sales Manager
Sales Manager
As a Sales Manager, you lead and motivate a team of salespeople to achieve sales goals. This course can help you develop the skills you need to be successful in this role by teaching you how to use your written words to become more persuasive. You will learn creative ways to use syntax, effective techniques for telling stories, and a clever method for organizing a complex series of information.
Business Analyst
Business Analyst
As a Business Analyst, you analyze business processes and systems to identify areas for improvement. This course can help you develop the skills you need to be successful in this role by teaching you how to communicate your findings and recommendations effectively in writing. You will learn creative ways to use syntax, effective techniques for telling stories, and a clever method for organizing a complex series of information.
Operations Manager
Operations Manager
As an Operations Manager, you manage the day-to-day operations of an organization. This course can help you develop the skills you need to be successful in this role by teaching you how to communicate effectively in writing with employees and other stakeholders. You will learn creative ways to use syntax, effective techniques for telling stories, and a clever method for organizing a complex series of information.
Grant Writer
Grant Writer
As a Grant Writer, you write proposals to secure funding for non-profit organizations and other entities. This course can help you develop the skills you need to be successful in this role by teaching you how to use your written words to become more persuasive. You will learn creative ways to use syntax, effective techniques for telling stories, and a clever method for organizing a complex series of information.
Technical Writer
Technical Writer
As a Technical Writer, you create written content that explains complex technical information to a non-technical audience. This course can help you develop the skills you need to be successful in this role by teaching you how to use your written words to become more persuasive. You will learn creative ways to use syntax, effective techniques for telling stories, and a clever method for organizing a complex series of information.
Editor
Editor
As an Editor, you oversee the creation and production of written content. This course can help you develop the skills you need to be successful in this role by teaching you how to use your written words to become more persuasive. You will learn creative ways to use syntax, effective techniques for telling stories, and a clever method for organizing a complex series of information.
Public relations manager
Public relations manager
As a Public Relations Manager, you manage the public image of organizations and individuals. This course can help you develop the skills you need to be successful in this role by teaching you how to use your written words to become more persuasive. You will learn creative ways to use syntax, effective techniques for telling stories, and a clever method for organizing a complex series of information.
Human Resources Manager
Human Resources Manager
As a Human Resources Manager, you manage the human resources functions of an organization, such as recruiting, hiring, and training. This course can help you develop the skills you need to be successful in this role by teaching you how to communicate effectively in writing with employees and other stakeholders. You will learn creative ways to use syntax, effective techniques for telling stories, and a clever method for organizing a complex series of information.
Social Media Manager
Social Media Manager
As a Social Media Manager, you manage the social media presence of organizations and individuals. This course can help you develop the skills you need to be successful in this role by teaching you how to use your written words to become more persuasive. You will learn creative ways to use syntax, effective techniques for telling stories, and a clever method for organizing a complex series of information.
Speechwriter
Speechwriter
As a Speechwriter, you write speeches for public figures, such as politicians, business leaders, and celebrities. This course can help you develop the skills you need to be successful in this role by teaching you how to use your written words to become more persuasive. You will learn creative ways to use syntax, effective techniques for telling stories, and a clever method for organizing a complex series of information.
Copywriter
Copywriter
As a Copywriter, you write persuasive and engaging copy for a variety of purposes, such as advertising, marketing, and sales. This course can help you develop the skills you need to be successful in this role by teaching you how to use your written words to become more persuasive. You will learn creative ways to use syntax, effective techniques for telling stories, and a clever method for organizing a complex series of information.
Journalist
Journalist
As a Journalist, you research, write, and report on news and current events. This course may be useful to you because it can help you develop the writing skills you need to communicate effectively with your audience. You will learn how to use creative ways to use syntax, effective techniques for telling stories, and a clever method for organizing a complex series of information.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/fag5vn/writing
Reading list
We've selected 15 books
that we think will supplement your
learning. Use these to
develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a
deeper understanding of the topics covered in
Writing and Editing: Word Choice and Word Order.
This classic style guide provides clear and concise rules for writing effectively. It valuable reference for writers of all levels.
Save
This practical guide to writing offers advice on everything from choosing the right words to structuring your sentences. It great resource for writers who want to improve their craft.
Save
Explores the cognitive science behind why some writing is clear and effective while other writing is not. It fascinating read for anyone who wants to understand the art of writing.
Save
This witty and encouraging book offers practical advice on writing from a successful author.
Offers a clear and concise guide to writing effective explanations. It valuable resource for writers who want to make their writing more accessible.
Save
This comprehensive style guide is the standard for writing and editing in the United States. It must-have resource for writers of all levels.
This quick and easy guide to grammar and punctuation valuable resource for writers of all levels.
This guide to writing clear and concise prose valuable resource for writers of all levels. It is particularly useful for writers who need to write for an international audience.
This classic guide to copywriting valuable resource for writers who want to learn how to write effective advertising and marketing copy.
Save
Offers a comprehensive overview of writing techniques and strategies. It valuable resource for writers of all levels.
This comprehensive guide to writing fiction valuable resource for aspiring novelists and short story writers.
Save
This style guide for creative writers offers advice on everything from choosing the right words to structuring your sentences.
Explores the art of writing with style and eloquence. It fascinating read for anyone who wants to improve their writing.
This grammar and style guide comprehensive and entertaining resource for writers of all levels.
This comprehensive grammar and punctuation guide valuable resource for writers of all levels.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/fag5vn/writing
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Level
Introductory
Via
Coursera
Institution
University of Michigan
Instructor
Patrick Barry
Language
English
Transcripts
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This course belongs to a
collection
called
Good with Words: Writing and Editing. It's comprised of four courses:
- Writing and Editing: Drafting
- Writing and Editing: Structure and Organization
- Writing and Editing: Word Choice and Word Order (viewing)
- Writing and Editing: Revising
Good to know
Designed to improve writing effectiveness in both personal and professional contexts
Suitable for learners with varying backgrounds and experience levels in writing
Patrick Barry, an experienced instructor, leads the course
Provides access to resources beyond the course duration, including readings, exercises, and email updates
Covers essential principles of effective writing, such as word choice, grammar, sentence structure, and detail
Emphasizes the practical application of writing skills in various contexts, including persuasion and communication
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