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This glossary defines key terms and concepts.
Please note that words set in small capital letters are
themselves defined in the glossary.
P
paraphrase A rewording of a text in about the
same number of words but without using the word
order or sentence structure of the original. A paraphrase
is generally used when you want to include
the details of a passage but do not need to quote it
word for word. Like a quotation, a paraphrase
requires documentation.
peer review See responding.
plagiarism Using another person's words, syntax,
or ideas without giving appropriate credit and documentation.
Plagiarism is a serious breach of ethics.
point of view A position from which something
is considered.
portfolio A collection of writing selected by a writer
to show his or her work, sometimes including a statement
assessing the work and explaining what it
demonstrates.
position A statement that asserts a belief or claim.
In an argument, a position needs to be stated in a
thesis or clearly implied, and requires support with
reasons and other kinds of evidence.
post hoc, ergo propter hoc Latin for "after this,
therefore because of this"; also called faulty causality.
A fallacy that assumes the first of two events causes
the second.
primary source A source such as a literary work,
historical document, art, or performance that a
researcher examines first hand. Primary sources
also include experiments and field research. In
writing about the Revolutionary War, a researcher
would likely consider the Declaration of Independence
a primary source and a textbook's description of the
writing of the document a secondary source.
process In writing, a series of actions that may
include generating ideas and text, drafting, revising,
editing, and proofreading a text. See also
explain a process.
profile A genre that presents an engaging portrait
of a person, place, or event based on firsthand field
research. Key Features: interesting subject • necessary
background • interesting angle • firsthand
account • engaging details
proofreading The final process of writing, when a
writer checks for correct spelling and punctuation as
well as for page order, missing copy, and consistent
use of typefaces and fonts. See also editing, revising,
and rewriting.
proposal A genre that argues for a solution to a
problem or suggests some action. See also topic
proposal. Key Features: well-defined problem • recommended
solution • convincing argument for proposed
solution • answers to anticipated questions
• call to action • appropriate tone
purpose A writer's goal: to explore; to express
oneself; to entertain; to demonstrate learning; to
report; to persuade; and so on. Purpose is one element
of the rhetorical situation.
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