A Strong Partner for Sustainable Development

Module
in
English 109A

TECHNICAL WRITING

College of Education
BSEd-English
 1st Semester AY 2020-2021

TECHNICAL WRITING
[DOCUMENT SUBTITLE]

Ricen V. Balinsay
Instructor 1
A module prepared by MARIA
CONCEPCION J. CAYAON, College of
Education

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 ABLE OF CONTENTS

PAGE

I. Title Page 1

II. Table of Contents 2

III. Instruction to the User

IV. Introduction to the Course

V. Learning Outcomes

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INSTRUCTION TO THE USER

This module would provide you an educational experience while

independently accomplishing the task at your own pace or time. It aims as
well to ensure that learning is unhampered by health and other challenges. It
covers the topic about Communication Models, Communication Ethics, and
Communication and Globalization.

Reminders in using this module:

1. Keep this material neat and intact.

2. Answer the pretest first to measure what you know and what to be
learned about the topic discussed in this module.
3. Accomplish the activities and exercises as aids and reinforcement for
better understanding of the lessons.
4. Answer the post-test to evaluate your learning.
5. Do not take pictures in any parts of this module nor post it to social
media platforms.
6. Value this module for your own learning by heartily and honestly
answering and doing the exercises and activities. Time and effort were
spent in the preparation in order that learning will still continue amidst
this Covid-19 pandemic.
7. Observe health protocols: wear mask, sanitize and maintain physical
distancing.

Hi! I’m Blue Bee, your WPU Mascot.

Welcome to Western Philippines University!

Shape your dreams with quality learning experience.

STAY SAFE AND HEALTHY!

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TOPIC 6: OUTLINING
CHAPTER OVERVIEW
This chapter focuses on writing the outline which will be relevant to technical and academic
writing

LEARNING OUTCOMES
By the end of this chapter, the students must be able to:

• Acquire and apply sentence outline skills

• Compare and contrast sentence from topic outline
• Able to prepare outline of given articles

TIME ALLOTMENT
The chapter will be given (3) hours.

DISCUSSION
A sentence outline is a tool for composing a document, such as an essay, a
paper, a book, or even an encyclopedia. It is a list used to organize the facts or points
to be covered, and their order of presentation, by section. (Wikipedia)

file:///C:/Users/wpu/Downloads/makinganoutline-12081615110

Why do we make an Outline?

Making an outline helps us a lot during writing process. It sets

boundaries between topics and helps us organize important ideas to
present those ideas logically. Moreover, it makes comparison and
contrast easier to understand.

We have two kinds of outline-the topic and the sentence outline. When
we want to discuss general topics, we use topic outlines. However, when
we want to elaborate complex details, we use sentence outlines.

Don’t forget that all outlines need a title, thesis statement, introduction,
body and conclusion. It should also be divided with Roman numerals, capital
letters, Arabic numerals, and lower-case letters.

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Below are Examples of outline

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 Try to look at this sentence outline template. It may help you in doing your own
outline.

ACTIVITIES
Prepare outline for this article, site the source, including the author, page and title of the
news article. Follow the format above:

1. Issue on division of Palawan into three provinces (15 pts)

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TOPIC 7: ETHICAL WRITING
REMINDERS
CHAPTER OVERVIEW

This chapter focuses on the ethics of writing. Since you have already prepared your full
blown research proposal, you have somehow learned that plagiarism is one of those
unethical practices. This chapter will remind you of ethical writing.

LEARNING OUTCOMES
By the end of this chapter, you must be able to:

• Be reminded of ethics in writing

• Discern what is correct and what is not in technical writing
• Incorporate these reminders into your writing

TIME ALLOTMENT
The chapter will be given a minimum of three (3) hours.

DISCUSSION
Ethical Writing and its Importance

Research ethics provides guidelines for the responsible conduct of research. In

addition, it educates and monitors scientists conducting research to ensure a high
ethical standard.
Ethical writing is writing that clearly indicates (via documentation) where source
material has been incorporated into one's own writing. It is also a kind
of writing that acknowledges a range of perspectives on an issue.

Its importance is not only based on avoidance of plagiarism but also avoiding bias
and exclusive language. Thus, strengthens the credibility and persuasiveness of the
writer’s argument.

The following is a general summary of some ethical principles:

1. Honesty
Honestly report data, results, methods and procedures, and publication status. Do
not fabricate, falsify, or misrepresent data.
2. Objectivity
Strive to avoid bias in experimental design, data analysis, data interpretation, peer
review, personnel decisions, grant writing, expert testimony, and other aspects of
research.

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3. Integrity:
Keep your promises and agreements; act with sincerity; strive for consistency of
thought and action.
4. Carefulness:
Avoid careless errors and negligence; carefully and critically examine your own work
and the work of your peers. Keep good records of research activities.
5. Openness:
Share data, results, ideas, tools, resources. Be open to criticism and new ideas.
6. Respect for Intellectual Property:
Honor patents, copyrights, and other forms of intellectual property. Do not use
unpublished data, methods, or results without permission. Give credit where credit is
due. Never plagiarize.
7. Confidentiality:
Protect confidential communications, such as papers or grants submitted for
publication, personnel records, trade or military secrets, and patient records.
8. Responsible Publication:
Publish in order to advance research and scholarship, not to advance just your own
career. Avoid wasteful and duplicative publication.

9. Responsible Mentoring:
Help to educate, mentor, and advise students. Promote their welfare and allow them
to make their own decisions.
10. Respect for Colleagues
Respect your colleagues and treat them fairly. Observe proper decorum and
manners.
11. Social Responsibility
Strive to promote social good and prevent or mitigate social harms through research,
public education, and advocacy.
12. Non-Discrimination
Avoid discrimination against colleagues or students or any persons on the basis of
sex, race, ethnicity, or other factors that are not related to their scientific competence
and integrity.
13. Competence
Maintain and improve your own professional competence and expertise through
lifelong education and learning; take steps to promote competence in science as a
whole.
14. Legality
Know and obey relevant laws and institutional and governmental policies.

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15. Animal Care
Show proper respect and care for animals when using them in research. Do not
conduct unnecessary or poorly designed animal experiments.

16. Human Subjects Protection

When conducting research on human subjects, minimize harms and risks and
maximize benefits; respect human dignity, privacy, and autonomy.

CITING SOURCES

1. Cite sources properly, using the most recent documentation style sheet/manual
available.
2. Cite any and all ideas that are “borrowed” (anything that did not originate
with you).
3. Cite BOTH paraphrases AND direct quotes.
4. Ask professors which citation style is preferable (MLA, APA, ASA, Chicago,
etc.)

(For further discussion of ethical writing practices, see The Everyday Writer
by Andrea Lunsford.)

ACTIVITIES

1. Based from what you have learned from this topic on Ethics of Writing, what are
ethical violations you have committed before? List down at least three.

REFERENCES
(https://libguides.library.cityu.edu.hk/researchmethods/ethics)
(https://www.apa.org › monitor › jan03 › principle}
https://www.apa.org › monitor › jan03 › principle
http://www.ethicsguidebook.ac.uk/EthicsPrinciples

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TOPIC 8: THE RESUME
CHAPTER OVERVIEW
This chapter focuses on the writing and completion of the resume, curriculum vitae, and
portfolio, as well as the legal and ethical considerations for job papers.

LEARNING OUTCOMES
By the end of this chapter, the students must be able to:

• Recognize and create a resume

• Prepare a basic curriculum vitae and portfolio
• Write a letter of application
• Take ethics and legalities into consideration
TIME ALLOTMENT
The chapter will be given a minimum of three (3) hours.

DISCUSSION
What is a Resume?
A resume is a formal document that a job applicant creates to itemize his or her
qualifications for a position. A resume is usually accompanied by a customized cover
letter in which the applicant expresses an interest in a specific job or company and
draws attention to the most relevant specifics on the resume.30 Dec 2020

What is the difference between resume and CV (Curriculum Vitae)

A resume is a one- to two-page document presenting key facts about your

professional experience, educational background, and skills. A CV (Curriculum
Vitae) is a longer document that details the whole course of your career. A resume is
used for job search, a CV—for academic purposes.

What is a resume for a job?

What is a resume, and why do you need one when you are job searching? A resume is
a written compilation of your education, work experience, credentials, and
accomplishments. Most professional positions require applicants to submit a resume
and cover letter as part of the application process.

How to Write a Resume

1. Choose a resume format.
2. Add your name and contact information.
3. Write a standout resume headline.
4. Add your professional resume summary statement.
5. Detail your work experience.

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 6. List relevant skills and keywords.
7. Add your education, certifications, and any other relevant information.

Look at the following Chronological sample of resume. Please click the link at the
references listed below

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Please take note of the pros and cons of Chronological resume
The pros of this resume:
• It is familiar to recruiters.
• It highlights career advancements.
• It emphasizes relevant job experience.
Cons:
• It shows gaps in employment.
• It doesn’t emphasize skills & abilities.
Best for:
• Job seekers with highly relevant work.

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Functional Resume

The Pros of functional resume is that, it focuses on your skills and abilities, and it
minimizes work experience.
The cons are: 1.) It is not preferred by recruiters and 2.) it leaves out work
experience. However, it is best for job seekers with no experience.

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Sample of functional resume

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Curriculum Vitae Sample

The following are samples of curriculum vitae taken from the internet. For more
samples, you can search the link below.

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Cover Letter

A cover letter is also known as job application letter. It serves an important purpose
because it presents the case for why you should be hired and distinguishes you from
other candidates. Your cover letter is where you can show your passion for the position
and the company, and highlight your most relevant qualifications.
(https://www.thebalancecareers.com/cover-letter-sample-for-a-resume-2060250)

Basics of Cover Letter

1. Tell a story
This contains the detailed work information about your work history like
where you worked and when. Your cover letter should complement that
information by telling a story about that experience. Include the impact that

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 you have made at past jobs and try to incorporate notable achievements into
your cover letter.
Tell the story of the problem you faced, how you addressed it and the
successful results that followed.
Example, “When I began my tenure at the HR department of Jones and
Welsch, lowering overhead was a priority. Through hard research, I found
multiple new vendors from which to source office supplies resulting in a 17%
decrease in overhead costs.”
In addition to offering a sense of who you are as a person, this will give an
employer a much better impression of who you are as an employee and the
determination you show to tackle important issues.

2. Pepper your cover letter with skills

Even if you choose to include a skills section on your resume, your cover letter
should be a chance to explain how you use those skills on the job.
Based from readings, the applicant has to read the language of the job adds—
take note of the keywords that describe what an employer wants, especially
the key skills they’re seeking if they apply to you. Include the skills necessary
to perform the job in a way that shows you are able to rise and perform the
duties needed.

Elaborate a bit on the importance of the skill to your success. Spin it as a

positive achievement in your cover letter.

For instance, if you want to talk about your cash-handling skills, “My skills in
cash handling ensured that my drawer was always returned at the end of my
shift with every last penny accounted for.”

3. The last sentence is as important as the first sentence.

As a tool to impress employers, see to it that everything in your cover letter is

on point. Don’t forget the contact information and the job title you are
applying. Double check your cover letter to make sure that it is free from
spelling, punctuation marks and grammar flaws.

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Sample cover letter

Joseph Q. Applicant
123 Main Street, Anytown, CA 12345 · 555-212-1234 · [email protected]

August 17, 2020

Jane Smith
Director, Human Resources
Acme Company
123 Business Rd.
Business City, CA 54321

Dear Ms. Smith,

I am interested in the author's assistant position at Acme Company, as advertised on LinkedIn. I am

currently employed as legislative director for Assemblywoman Nora Kiel, Chairperson of the NYS
Assembly. I believe that the skills and experiences I have gained at this position make me an ideal
candidate for the job of author’s assistant.
As legislative director, I have developed strong writing and editing skills. For example, one of my main
duties is to prepare Assemblywoman Nora Kiel’s personal legislation, which deals with issues related
to her position as Senior Member of the NYS Assembly Standing Committee.
This duty requires meticulous writing and editing skills, and an ability to convey complex legal ideas
clearly. I have prepared dozens of pieces of legislation and received praise for the clarity of my writing.
I have also gained extensive experience in legal and policy research – fields that you state the author’s
assistant must be familiar with. My experience in the NYS Assembly has afforded me the opportunity
to become familiar with the consolidated and unconsolidated laws of the State of New York. In particular,
through my work with Assemblywoman Nora Kiel, I have become heavily involved in the current welfare
and Medicaid reform movement. I am always eager to learn more about state legislation, reading up on
these topics on my own time to become more knowledgeable. I would love to bring this passion for
policy and law to your company.
I am confident that my experience in the Legislature and my research and writing skills qualify me for
consideration. If you would like, I can provide you with current samples of my work. I have also enclosed
my resume. I look forward to meeting with you and discussing my qualifications in more detail.
Sincerely,

Joseph Q. Applicant (signature hard copy letter)

Joseph Q. Applicant

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What is Portfolio? How is it different from resume?

A resume presents your work history and experience, skills, and other qualifications.
A portfolio gives possible employers a more detailed look at the work that you've done.
(https://www.thebalancecareers.com › what-is-a-profession...) It is more detailed and
professional, 3-ring binder allowing for an in-depth showcasing of your experience
and skills. (https://www.livecareer.com › questions › is-a-portfolio-)

Career portfolio is composed of letter of introduction, career-pursuit information, samples of

work, and personal interests and achievements.

For more information, please read this link. https://trn-

store.com/sites/default/files/MarketingAndJobDevelopment/pdfs/career_portfolio.
pdf

ACTIVITIES/ EXERCISES
1.) Inquire in the WPU Career Center via their Facebook page on how to make your
own E-Portfolio account. Kindly update your account if you already have one.
Create your own E-Portfolio resume, bearing in mind the lessons learned from
this module. Submit your resume to [email protected] on or before
March 10, 2021.
EVALUATIONS/POST TEST

Prepare your resume and a cover letter for a job application and your resume. For the cover
letter, here are the pertinent details:

1. Address to Dr. Julie Hope Timotea P. Evina, President, Western Philippines

University, San Juan, Aborlan, Palawan.
2. The job you are applying for is a teaching position in the College of Education.

Submit your cover letter and resume on or before March 10, 2021.

REFERENCES
https://resumegenius.com › Resources › Resume Help
https://zety.com › Resume Help
https://www.investopedia.com › Careers › Career Advice
https://www.investopedia.com › Careers › Career Advice
https://www.thebalancecare
https://www.google.com/search?q=samples+of+resume+for+job+application&safe
=active&sxsrf=ALeKk00IXVCY36Czluji2Li3Rj3e3zD5dQ:1614150356901&tbm=isch
&source=iu

https://www.thebalancecareers.com › what-is-a-
profession..ttps://www.jobhero.com/cover-letter/examples

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https://www.livecareer.com › questions › is-a-portfolio

https://trn-
store.com/sites/default/files/MarketingAndJobDevelopment/pdfs/career_portfolio.
pdf

DISCLAIMER

This module is prepared for instructional purposes only based on our course syllabus.
The teacher who prepared this does not claim ownership on this module but patterned
the ideas from different authors and references.

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Congratulations for completing this module!

Student’s Information

Name: ___________________________________________
Surname First Name Middle Name
Program, Year and Section: ____________________________
Contact Number: ___________________________________
Email Address: _____________________________________
Facebook/Messenger Account: __________________________

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 Vision 2020
WPU: the leading knowledge center for sustainable
development of West Philippines and beyond.

Mission
WPU commits to develop quality human resource and green
technologies for a dynamic economy and sustainable
development through relevant instruction,
research and extension services.

Core Values (3CT)

Culture of Excellence
Commitment
Creativity
Teamwork

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