MENU
Honesty in Writing
  1. Strand PHIL.I Definitions of Philanthropy
    1. Standard DP 01. Define Philanthropy
      1. Benchmark MS.4 Give examples of how individuals have helped others.
  2. Strand PHIL.IV Volunteering and Service
    1. Standard VS 01. Needs Assessment
      1. Benchmark MS.1 Identify a need in the school, local community, state, nation, or world.

Learners explore ways to be honest in communication, writing with clear purpose and honest intent.

Duration: 
PrintOne 20-minute class period
Objectives: 

The learner will:

  • write with clear communication in straightforward, honest language.
Instructions: 
Print

  1. Anticipatory Set:

    Yesterday we explored making meaning clear using voice and body language. Today we will explore honesty in written communication.

  2. Discuss how writing can be direct and honest or it can mislead or deceive others. They may find examples of both in political articles or historical accounts.

  3. Discuss persuasive tactics such as suggestive comments, big words and long sentences, omission of information, lack of clarity, sarcasm, and fabrication. (For examples, see the handout below, Honesty in Writing.)

  4. You may give the example that doctors have a reputation for using unfamiliar vocabulary when talking to families in order to soften the language about a difficult diagnosis.

  5. Honesty in written communication is truthful, sincere, and forthright. Ask the learners to write 1-3 sentences about something they care about related to making a better world. Their writing should be honest and give clear and factual information, leaving no ambiguity. They may look up facts on the Internet. Tell them that if their intent is to be truthful, they will most likely communicate honestly.

  6. After 5 minutes, they read their statement to a neighbor.

  7. After they share with a partner, have the partners give feedback on whether the statement felt sincere and honest. Ask for volunteers to share statements with the whole group.