Business Writing Skills

Workshop Methodology
A very interactive event which will employ case studies, exercises and engaging discussions based on concrete example applicable to attendee’s environment and real-life situation. At the end of this course, learners will be able to:
·         Use textual features and conventions specific to business texts for effective writing.
·         Identify and collect information needed to write a text specific to a particular function.
·         Compose a text using plain language for a specific function.
·         Organise and structure a text appropriately for a business function.
.         Present a written text for a particular function in a business environment

Course Overview

The Business Writing skills is designed to improve the written communication process in the business world. Throughout this course learners will be encouraged to bear in mind why they are communicating who will be receiving the communication and what is being communicated. This will allow them to decide which format is the most appropriate for their particular requirements.

Course Outline

Learning Unit 1
Use textual features and conventions specific to business texts for effective writing. After completion of this learning Unit Learners should be able to:
· Texts specific to a particular function in a business environment are identified and an indication is given of industry specific and/or legislative requirements for each text.
· Texts specific to a particular function in a business environment are produced in response to defined requirements.
· The implications of not following the industry specific or legislative requirements for a specific type of text are explained and an indication is given of the possible consequences of non-compliance.
. Terminology and conventions specific to a particular function in a business environment are used appropriately.

Learning Unit 2
Identify and collect information needed to write a text specific to a particular function. After completion of this learning Unit learners should be able to:
· The intended or incidental audience for whom the text is to be written, are identified for a specific field or sub field in order to focus the information needs.
· The purpose of the text is identified within a specific field or sub-field and according to the information.
· Questions are asked to help understand client needs and to focus information gathering.
· Information required for the document is accessed from a variety of sources.
· Information accessed is checked for accuracy, bias, stereotypes, and other offensive details.
· The focus of the proposed text is defined, and decision is made about what information should be included or omitted in order to ensure the focus.
. A checklist is created to facilitate reflection and editing.

Learning Unit 3
Compose a text using plain language for a specific function. After completion of this learning Unit learners should be able to:
· A format and structure is selected for the text that is appropriate for the intended audience and function.
· The main points to be included in the text are identified and the necessary supporting details are added.
. A first draft of the text is written that collates the necessary information in a rough framework.

Learning Unit 4
. Organise and structure a text appropriately for a business function. After completion of this learning Unit learners should be able to:
. The first draft is checked to ensure that appropriate grammar has been used and where necessary the draft is rewritten in plain language using clear accessible language that avoids over-complex syntax.
. Different ways of presenting the same information are considered and used where these enhance the meaning of the text.
. Technical or marketing terms and jargon are interpreted and rephrased in plain language or used appropriately in the correct context where the terminology is essential to the understanding of the text.
. All information is checked for accuracy, and factual correctness.
. The document is ordered to ensure that the sequence is logical and meaningful.

Learning Unit 5
Present a written text for a particular function in a business environment. After completion of this learning unit learners should able to:
. A text type, format and layout are selected that is appropriate for the audience and purpose.
. Layout and formatting techniques are used correctly to enhance the readability of the text.
. Information in the document is evaluated in terms of its appropriateness for the intended audience and business function.
. The final draft is proofread to check that it is completely correct.
. The final copy is self-assessed using a rubric or checklist based on the requirements of the writing task and the items on the checklist created in Specific Outcome to Identify and collect information needed to write a text specific to a particular function.

Assessment: SAQA US ID 12153, NQF Level 4, 5 Credits
Investment: R 4299 (Excl VAT) This Investment covers: Tuition, Learning Materials, Assessment and Competence Certificate
The PoE will be made up from Business Writing Skills as well as practical work to be completed after facilitation.