Module 1: Science, Medical, and Health (SMH) Writing
Science Writing. Select a publication discussed in class and identify its genre based on Penrose and Katz' classifications of science writing: report, proposal, review, or presentation. Discuss cues from the publication (format, language, etc.) that help identify its genre. Integrating readings from class regarding science writing characteristics. Length: 800-1000 words.
Module 2: Rhetorical dynamics of SMH Writing
Medical Writing. Choose a sample medical manual about a medical device OR a commercial online charting/documentation system available on the internet for patient view. Explain the rhetorical aspects of the manual or documentation in terms of author, audience, and purpose; identify the digital aspects of the documentation and how information might be contextually shared. Integrate readings from class (including guest speakers) to inform your analysis.
Length: 800-1000 words
Module 3: Regulated and Digital Writing
Regulated Writing. Examine an example of labeling (e.g. Pulse Oximeters-those clips that go onto your finger to figure out what the oxygenation of your blood.) and identify content that must conform to federal regulations. Go to the FDA.gov website to find the labeling requirements for the device. Identify a review process that a writer would need to meet those requirements in company manuals and/or box labels. Articulate a possible content approval process required by the regulatory body that you might implement.
Length: 800-1000 words
Module 4: Public health and SMH writing
Public Health Writing. Select a health topic and conduct research from scientific and medical journals. Write a script for a three-minute podcast in which you provide an update on the health topic for a public audience. Podcast Script, recording, and final presentation are included. The podcast must also be accessible on mobile devices.
800-1000 word script; 3 minute recording; 15 slide presentation
This assignment sequence offers students a range of writing genres in Science, Medical, and Health (SMH) writing. All assignments will be completed individually, and grades in the course are based on these assignments. Thus writing is a significant basis for the grade in the course.