| Technical Descriptions Overview: 1. Technical descriptions are often used in user manuals, product specifications, reports, and sales literature. 2. The introduction of a technical description explains the mechanism's function and major components. 3. Graphics make a technical description useful to the reader. 4. Follow a logical pattern of organization in a technical description. 5. Carefully consider where you place text and visual aids. 6. Word usage can be either photographic or impressionistic. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Activities 1. Write a technical description, either individually or as a team. To do so, first select a topic. You can describe any tool, mechanism, or piece of equipment. However, don't choose a topic too large to describe accurately. To provide a thorough and precise description, you'll need to be exact and minutely detailed. A large topic, such as a computer, an oscilloscope, a respirator, or a Boeing airliner, would be too demanding for a one-page description. On the other hand, don't choose a topic that is too small, such as a paper clip or shoestring. Choose a topic that provides you with a challenge but that is manageable. You might write about any of the following topics: Hammer Computer Disk VCR remote control Wrench Computer mouse X-acto knife Screwdriver Light bulb Ballpoint pen Pliers Calculator Pencil Wall outlet Automobile tire Credit card ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Technical Description Checklist 1. Does the technical description have a title noting your topic's name ( any identifying numbers)? 2. Does the technical description's introduction (a) state the topic, (b) mention its functions or the purpose of the mechanism, and (c) list the components? 3. Dos the technical description's discussion use headings to itemize the components for reader-friendly ease of access? 4. Is the detail within the technical description's discussions photographically precise? That is, does the discussion portion of the description specify the following? Colors Capacities Sizes Textures Materials Identifying numbers Shapes Weight Density Make/model 5. Are all of the calculations and measurement correct? 6. Do you sum up your discussion using any of the optional conclusions discussed in this chapter? 7. Does your technical description provide graphics which are correctly labeled, appropriately placed, neatly drawn or reproduced, and appropriately sized? 8. Do you write using an effective technical style (low fog index) and a personalized tone? 9. Have you avoided sexist language and multicultural biases? 10. Have you avoided grammatical and mechanical errors? |