Reading a Prompt Before Writing

In practice

This worked example is constructed for this course. A prompt asks: write a letter to your city council proposing one change that would make your neighborhood safer for people who walk. Work through it in order. First, the purpose: to persuade, not only to inform, because the letter proposes a change and wants it adopted. Second, the audience: council members, who know the city's budget and rules well but may not know your street; they need specific local detail and a reason the change is worth its cost. Third, the genre: a formal letter, which calls for a respectful tone, a clear request near the start, and a signature. Fourth, the context: the council is weighing many requests, so timing matters; a recent accident or an upcoming budget vote makes the letter more urgent. Fifth, prewriting: brainstorm possible changes, such as a crosswalk, a lower speed limit or better lighting, then choose the one you can support best. Sixth, a working claim: the council should add a marked crosswalk at the corner near the school. Seventh, the evidence the audience will need: how many students cross there, what the current conditions are, and what similar changes achieved elsewhere.