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Taking WR this semester has helped me grow a lot as a communicator. When the course first started, I thought writing was only about sounding “good” or using big words. But through the lessons, activities, and assignments, I learned that good writing is actually about clear ideas, simple language, and thinking carefully about my audience.

One thing that helped me the most was understanding the importance of structure. Structures like the Ski Jump, CAPS, and the Argument Pyramid showed me how to build my ideas step by step so that my writing becomes logical and persuasive. I also realised that planning my points before writing makes everything clearer and helps prevent confusion.

Another area where I improved was understanding my reader. WR taught me that writing is not for only myself but it is about my readers. This changed the way I write. Now, I try to make sure my ideas are easy to follow, and I avoid long or complicated sentences. I also learned that tone matters. The way I speak to a client in a proposal should be very different from how I write a reflective piece.

My biggest challenge in WR was learning to rewrite. I used to write everything in one go and submit it. But WR taught me that rewriting is a key part of the process. When I revised my drafts, I saw how removing extra words, fixing unclear points, and organising my ideas made my writing much stronger.

I am also very grateful for my group. The fun and supportive environment they created made me enjoy the class more. WR would not have been the same without them.

Lastly, I want to say thank you Prof for teaching us and always bringing snacks for us.

Overall, WR has helped me become clearer, more confident, and more careful with my words. I can now better understand that writing is not just an academic skill, it is something I will use in work, in school, and in life. I am thankful for the growth I experienced, and I know these skills will stay with me long after this course.

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Key Points

1. Writing is rewriting

Good writing rarely happens on the first try. Writers must revise continually to make their sentences tighter, clearer, and more precise.

2. Strip every sentence to its essentials

Remove unnecessary words, long phrases, clutter, clichés, and any language that doesn’t serve a clear purpose.

3. Clear writing requires clear thinking

If your thinking is messy, your writing will be too. Writing improves when the writer deliberately sharpens their thoughts.

4. Writers must not confuse or lose their readers

It is the writer’s responsibility to maintain clarity, accuracy, and engagement. Any confusion means writer’s fault.

5. Write for readers encountering the topic for the first time

Do not assume background knowledge. Make every piece understandable on its own.

6. Be genuine and human

Write with authenticity; use “I”, “we” and personal voice. Build a connection through inclusive, welcoming language.

7. Simplicity is power

Remove clutter, avoid pompous language, and favour straightforward sentences. Simple doesn't mean shallow but it creates clarity.

8. Learn the foundational rules of writing

Writing is a craft with principles. Strong grammar, syntax, and structure are non-negotiable.

9. Respect words

Know the meaning of words, look up uncertain terms, explore dictionaries, and expand your vocabulary.

10. Learn by imitation

Study great writers, analyse their structure, tone, rhythm, and choices, and then adapt those techniques into your own style.

Key Takeaways

1. My first draft is never my best

Professional writing comes from revising, and not inspiration. Editing is where quality emerges.

2. Clarity is the highest goal

Readers should never struggle to understand your ideas. Simplicity, precision, and clean sentences are essential.

3. I carry the full responsibility

If readers are bored, confused, or lost, the blame falls on the writer and not the reader.

4. Think clearly before I write

Good writing is essentially good thinking expressed on paper. Therefore I should improve my thinking in order improve my writing.

5. Make my writing accessible

Every piece should stand alone, understandable without prior context or insider knowledge.

6. Authenticity builds trust

Readers respond to honesty, warmth, and real voice. Use human, inclusive language to create connection.

7. Cut ruthlessly

Anything unnecessary should go. Less clutter means more impact.

8. Writing is a craft with rules

Grammar, syntax, and word choice matter. They are the “nails” that keep the writing from collapsing.

9. Words are tools so choose them deliberately

Use dictionaries and thesauruses often. Develop an obsession with precision.

10. Read great writers to become one

I should learn writing by absorbing and dissecting the work of those who do it best.

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Key Takeaway

Russell Conjugation is the practice of describing the same behaviour using different words depending on whether the speajer wants it to sound positive, neutral, or negative. It's a subtle form of linguistic framing where facts remain constant, but emotional tone changes, influencing how the audience interprets the situation.

Whole typical grammatical conjugations clarify meaning, Russell Conjugation adds opinion to facts, often disguised as neutral phrasing. It subtly alters emotion while pretending to be objective.

Russell Conjugation is not morally wrong by default. Instead, it's a powerful rhetorical tool, and how it is used determines its impact. It can clarify values or encourage empathy through positive framing however, it can also manipulate perception by steering audiences toward a biased interpretation without them noticing.

I feel that this is especially useful in daily life as it can help me to spot bias in news, marketing or even daily conversations. It also makes me more aware and careful of my own phrasing of words.

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Key Points to Take Note for Cover Letter

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Key Points to Take Note for Cover Letter

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Structure

Make use of ski jump

Hook / Introduction: Capture attention with a story or key idea

Body: Connect your experience to the skills the role needs

Closing: Reinforce how your story shows you can add value to their organisation

Audience-centric Approach

Focus on what the employer or audience values, and not just on yourself

Show how your skills and experiences can benefit the organisation

Use the company’s values, mission, or role description to tailor your message

Show, Don’t Tell

Avoid simply saying “I am passionate” or “I am hardworking”

Prove it through real experiences, achievements, or examples.

For example: instead of “I am a good leader,” write “I led a project team of five to deliver results ahead of schedule”

Connection Between Skills and Experience

Link your values or strengths directly to what you’ve done

Each quality (e.g., adaptability, teamwork) should be supported by an experience that demonstrates it

Professional Yet Personal Tone

Be genuine and human, but also concise and professional

Balance storytelling with clarity, your story should have a purpose that relates to the job or opportunity.

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Question 1: We have been learning about persuasion and how using story can help in your cover letter or pitch. reflect on your story . What adventures have you been called to? What difficulties have you faced? How has this made you into the person you are today? Then think of how your story cold be used professionally as a way to pitch your experience/expertise. 

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Question 1: We have been learning about persuasion and how using story can help in your cover letter or pitch. reflect on your story . What adventures have you been called to? What difficulties have you faced? How has this made you into the person you are today? Then think of how your story cold be used professionally as a way to pitch your experience/expertise. 

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One of the biggest adventurous event in my life is adapting to the university life. It was a big change from what I was used to, so I had to learn how to be more independent and manage everything on my own. It was similar to polytechnic yet different at the same time. It was similar to polytechnic as the timetable are quite flexible instead of sticking to having lessons for the whole week. However, in university we have to plan and bid for our lessons. Therefore, it was really challenging at first and i found it hard to adapt to the university life. I struggled to balance my personal life, group projects, and studies, and sometimes I questioned my own abilities.

Over time, I started to understand that it is okay to face difficulties because they help me grow. I learned how to better manage and plan my time, communicate more with others, and stay calm even when things did not go the way I wanted. I also became more confident in speaking up and expressing my ideas due to class participation in SMU. Most importantly, I learned to be patient with myself and to see progress as something that takes time.

I believe that these experiences have made me a more resilient and strong individual. Those experience taught me how to remain positive even under pressure, collaborate effectively with others, and manage stress. Professionally, I can use this story to show that I am adaptable and able to handle new challenges with a positive mindset. For example, in a cover letter or job interview, I could share how learning to manage my time and responsibilities at university has prepared me to take initiative and work well in fast-paced environments. My experience shows that I am proactive, dependable, and willing to step out of my comfort zone to grow. I believe these qualities will help me contribute meaningfully to any team or workplace in the future.

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CAPS -> Context, Audience, Purpose, Structure

In future, I can apply CAPS to any form of communication, whether it is school assignments or workplace reports or daily interactions. Understanding the context helps me adapt my tone and formality, while identifying the audience ensures my message is relevant and respectful. Clarifying the purpose guides what I include and what I leave out, and using a logical structure helps my reader easily follow my ideas.

For example, sending professional email or presenting a project, I can use CAPS to plan my message strategically so it is clear, organised, aligned with my goal and connects with my audience.

PIE -> Persuade

PIE reminds me to match my communication style to my intention. In future workplace, I might need to persuade clients to accept a proposal. In university, I will often inform through reports or presentations, and in personal communication, I can entertain to keep people engaged. Being aware of PIE helps me choose the right tone and language to achieve my purpose effectively. PIE does not need to be separated and can be intertwined.

For example, when pitching an idea, I will use persuasive techniques such as evidence and confident tone, when giving updates, I will focus on being informative and concise.

3Cs -> Clear, Concise, Coherent

I feel that 3C are important that will improve both academic and professional success as it easily help audience who are listening to us to understand the point we would like to bring across easily. Keeping my writing clear avoids confusion, being concise saves time for the reader and ensuring coherence maintains logical flow. These qualities will help me write effective reports, create impactful presentations, and communicate confidently in any setting.

Overall

Using CAPS, PIE and the 3Cs helps me think before writing as it allows me to think about why I am communicating, who I am speaking to, and how to deliver my message effectively. These frameworks not only improve my academic writing but also prepare me for professional communication, leadership and collaboration in the future.

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Question 2: What are some things in life that I have believed for a long time, but may want to critically think? How would I go about doing so?

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Question 2: What are some things in life that I have believed for a long time, but may want to critically think? How would I go about doing so?

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I always had this belief that being successful means going to university, getting a grade and then a good job. This belief is taught by my parents and relatives around me, so I have never questioned it and always work hard to make sure I get good grades and hopefully get a good job in the future. I have never questioned this belief but this question makes me want to think more deeply about what success really means to me. In order to do so, I would need to reflect on what makes me happy and what I truly want in life. I can also learn from other people’s experiences and see how they define success in their own unique ways.

Another belief I have is that other people are always better than me. I sometimes compare myself to others and feel like I’m not good enough. To think critically about this, I can remind myself that everyone has different strengths and weaknesses. Instead of comparing, I can focus on improving myself and being proud of my own progress. Thinking this way helps me build confidence and feel more positive about who I am.

In the end, I think it's important to always question what we believe. When we question our thoughts and what other people tell us, we can learn more about ourselves and make choices that really show who we are.

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Purpose

The Inverted Pyramid is a writing technique used to organise information from the most important to the least important.

It helps readers quickly understand the main idea of your paper, even if they only read the first few lines.

This structure captures attention, improves clarity, and makes your writing more engaging and easy to follow.

Components

1. Main Idea (Top of the Pyramid)

Begin with the key message or main point you want readers to know.

Use a strong hook to capture their attention immediately.

2. Explanation (Middle Section):

Present more detailed information in the body paragraphs.

Each paragraph should have a clear topic sentence.

Use quotes, statistics, and examples to support your argument.

3. Additional Details (Bottom of the Pyramid)

End with background information or interesting facts that add context.

Include anecdotes or non-essential details that help readers better understand the topic.

Simple Structure of Inverted Pyramid

Most important information

Important information

Less important information

Least important information

Link to Video:

https://mediacast.smu.edu.sg/media/The%20Inverted%20Pyramid%20-%20Quiz/1_9e1t4vez

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What is logical fallacy?

A logical fallacy is flawed reasoning that weakens an argument

It can be an honest mistake or a deliberate trick to manipulate an audience

Fallacies show up as either formal problems in logic or informal problems in relevance, evidence, or language

Why they matter for ethos, pathos, logos

Ethos can be damaged when you use tricks, biased language, or fake authority

Logos collapses when your reasons do not follow or your evidence is weak

Pathos can overwhelm logic if emotion replaces reasons and evidence

Common fallacies

Ethos-related fallacies

Ad hominem: attack the person, not the claim

False authority: “expert” lacks relevant expertise or is biased

Guilt by association and name-calling: link someone to a disliked group or apply loaded labels

Poisoning the well: pre-emptively undermine an opponent’s credibility

Plain folks and testimonial: “trust me, I am like you” or “celebrity says so”

Logos-related fallacies

Hasty generalization: conclusion from too little or unrepresentative data
• Begging the question and circular reasoning: the claim is assumed in the premises

False dilemma: “only two choices” when more exist

Post hoc or false cause: confuse sequence or correlation with causation

Non sequitur: conclusion does not follow from the premises

Faulty analogy: key differences make the comparison misleading

Red herring or smokescreen: distract from the real issue

Complex question: a loaded question that assumes something not proven

Pathos-related fallacies

Appeal to fear: scare tactics

Appeal to pity or guilt: emotional pressure replaces reasons

Bandwagon or appeal to popularity: “everyone does it”

Appeal to tradition or stirring symbols: “we have always done it” or wrap in feel-good symbols

Slippery slope: claim that one step will inevitably cause disastrous steps without evidence

Link for more information:

https://human.libretexts.org/Courses/City_College_of_San_Francisco/Writing_Reading_and_College_Success%3A_A_First-Year_Composition_Course_for_All_Learners_%28Kashyap_and_Dyquisto%29/02%3A_Writing_and_the_Art_of_Rhetoric/2.05%3A_Logical_Fallacies_-_How_to_Spot_Them_and_Avoid_Making_Them

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2.5: Logical Fallacies - How to Spot Them and Avoid Making Them

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This page gives examples of types of logical fallacies and appeals to pathos that are sometimes misused in argumentation.

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Purpose

Provides a concise overview of a report, proposal, or project.

Helps busy readers quickly understand the key issue, why it matters, and what solution is being proposed.
• Uses the SCQA Framework (Situation, Complication, Question, Answer) to give a clear and logical structure.
• Makes the summary engaging, easy to read, and focused on essential information.

Components of the SCQA Framework

Situation (S)

Sets the context and provides background information.

Describes the current state of affairs related to the topic.

Example: “The fast-food industry is growing rapidly, with increasing demand for healthier options.”

Complication (C)

Identifies the main problem or challenge that arises within the situation.

Explains why it is urgent or important to address.

Example: “This shift in consumer preference forces fast-food companies to innovate their menus while maintaining speed and convenience.”

Question (Q)

Raises the key question that emerges from the complication.

Focuses the reader’s attention on the issue that needs solving.

Example: “How can the company meet the demand for healthier food without compromising taste or profitability?”

Answer (A)

Provides clear recommendations or solutions.

Connects the proposed actions to the identified problem and explains the benefits.

Example: “By introducing innovative, value-priced healthy menu items and unique packaging, the company can attract new customers and increase revenue.”

Application

Use the SCQA framework to structure your summary logically and clearly.

Use active and engaging language to capture attention and maintain interest.

Keep the summary concise — around 5–10% of the full report length.

Focus on the most critical points that help decision-makers act quickly.

Link to Video

https://mediacast.smu.edu.sg/media/Executive+Summary/1_1387xt81

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Mediacast | Singapore Management University

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This video explains how to craft an effective executive summary using the SCQA framework (Situation, Complication, Question, Answer) to provide a concise and compelling overview of larger documents such as formal reports, plans or business proposals. It demonstrates how to grab the attention of busy executives and clearly communicate key points.

You can download the worksheet from this link.

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This video explains how to craft an effective executive summary using the SCQA framework (Situation, Complication, Question, Answer) to provide a concise and compelling overview of larger documents such as formal reports, plans or business proposals. It demonstrates how to grab the attention of busy executives and clearly communicate key points.You can download the worksheet from this link.

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Purpose

The Ski Jump is a structure used to make writing or presentations more engaging, especially when there are time limits or word constraints. It helps to capture attention quickly, deliver the main message effectively, and end with impact.

Components of Ski Jump

1. Hook (Big Opening):

The first sentence that grabs the audience’s attention.

Can be an anecdote, statistic, provocative statement, or misconception.

Often introduces a problem that will be addressed later.

Example: “Fast food is killing you, faster than you think.”

2. WSIC (Why Should I Care?)

Explains why the topic matters to the audience.

Shows the relevance or importance of the issue so that listeners or readers stay engaged.

3. Details

Provides supporting information, evidence, and explanations.

May include data, examples, case studies, or action plans that strengthen your argument.

4. WIIFM (What’s In It For Me?)

Shows the benefits or value of your proposal to the audience.

Answers why they should care, listen, or take action.

5. Call to Action

A closing statement that encourages the audience to act immediately.

Reinforces the key message and leaves a lasting impression.

Application

Know your audience: understand what they care about, how much they know, and what tone or style works best.

Use Ethos, Pathos, and Logos to connect logically, emotionally, and credibly.

A strong Ski Jump presentation moves smoothly from attention to action, keeping the audience engaged throughout.

Link to Video

https://mediacast.smu.edu.sg/media/Ski+Jump/1_272s6hx8

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Introduction (What is Ethos, Pathos and Logos?):
Persuasion is a skill that we use every day in conversations, debates, advertisements, and even school presentations. The video taught me that effective persuasion is built on three key rhetorical appeals: ethos, pathos, and logos. Each of these appeals plays a different role in helping us communicate our ideas clearly and convincingly.

Purpose:

The purpose of ethos, pathos, and logos is to make communication more persuasive and impactful.

These appeals help speakers and writers connect with their audience through credibility, emotion, and logic.

Understanding and combining all three allows us to influence others in a balanced and thoughtful way.

Ethos (Credibility):

Ethos is about gaining the audience’s trust by showing honesty, knowledge, and reliability.

It can be built through credible sources, confident delivery, and a professional tone.

Example: Referring to a Harvard study makes an argument sound more trustworthy than personal opinion alone.

Pathos (Emotion):

Pathos appeals to the audience’s emotions to create empathy and connection.

It often uses stories, vivid descriptions, or emotional examples to make people care about the message.

Example: Describing a family losing their business due to poverty creates compassion and a stronger emotional impact.

Logos (Logic):

Logos focuses on reasoning and evidence to make an argument sound logical and convincing.

It includes facts, data, examples, and clear explanations that support the main point.

Example: Using statistics to show improvement in education rates supports a claim with solid evidence.

Conclusion:

Each appeal works differently, but true persuasion happens when all three are used together.

Ethos builds trust, pathos connects emotionally, and logos strengthens logic.

Combining them creates a message that is credible, meaningful, and convincing to any audience.

Link to Video about Ethos, Pathos and Logos:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_6Qco3ml8eQ

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Rhetorical Appeals: Ethos, Pathos and Logos (Includes Worksheet)

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Question 1: Who do you want to persuade in life? (Think about your personal life, your studies in SMU & your future career) Choose a scenario where you would need skills in persuasion. Think about how you would use Logos, Ethos and Pathos to persuade your listener.

One situation where I would need to use persuasion is during a job interview in future when I am trying to convince the interviewer that I am the best fit for the role.

To build Ethos, I would highlight my background by sharing what I have learned at SMU, my internship experience, and how these have shaped my skills.

For Logos, I would explain clearly how my strengths and experiences match the company’s goals, using examples of problems I have solved or projects I have contributed to.

Lastly, with Pathos, I would show genuine enthusiasm for the company’s work and express how excited I am to grow with the team. By blending credibility, logic, and emotion, I can leave a sincere and confident impression on the interviewer.

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Question 1: What are some aspects you’ve learnt about academic integrity that you didn’t know before?

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Question 1: What are some aspects you’ve learnt about academic integrity that you didn’t know before?

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Before this class, I only thought that plagiarism was copying and pasting someone else’s work. I did not know that there are actually so many different types of plagiarism.

Through the lesson, I learnt that there are many forms and levels of academic integrity breaches. Now I know that rephrasing or mixing ideas without proper citations is also considered plagiarism. I was also surprised that even minor issues like inaccurate citations or insufficient paraphrasing can still be flagged.

Another thing I learnt is that using AI tools is allowed only in certain ways, and we must declare it if we use them for paraphrasing. Understanding this information helps me to be more careful with my referencing.

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I have learned that there are different breaches of academic integrity such as plagiarism, contract cheating, collusion, copying from other students, unauthorised use of AI, and fabrication.

Plagiarism can also be categorised as minor or major.

Minor plagiarism includes insufficient paraphrasing.

Insufficient paraphrasing involves using your own words to rewrite another author's idea. It is not enough to change a few words or swap the words around. Even if the writer has included a reference, this is incorrect paraphrasing and is considered plagiarism.

Major plagiarism includes mosaic plagiarism and structural plagiarism.

Mosaic plagiarism occurs when you create a mosaic of different writers' thoughts and ideas and then pass it off as your own without quotation marks or citing the original authors.

Structural plagiarism is defined as paraphrasing someone else's words by changing the sentence or word choice, or paraphrasing while maintaining the original sentence structure without citation.

Cheating occurs when there is use of unauthorised assistance. This means using or attempting to use unauthorised assistance, material, or study aids in examinations or other academic work. Cheating also occurs when there is collusion, which is unauthorised or improper collaboration among multiple students to complete assignments that are subsequently submitted for assessment.

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Thesis Statement

It does not need to be one sentence up front.

It can be spread across the article

Voice

Hook used can be something everyone is familiar with and can relate to. For example, the author used Tom and Jerry..

Asking questions can engage the audience.

Can use humour or conversational tone.

Integrating Sources

Start with a main idea for that paragraph (topic sentence)

Use the sources to argue for that main idea (use paraphrasing

– adapting the source material to suit your argument and maintain your voice).

Use Transition words to demonstrate that the material is from the source

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Question 1:                                                            Why is Critical Thinking important in life?(Relate this to your studies in SMU and life  beyond studies. You can also think about your social media feed)

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Question 1:                                                            Why is Critical Thinking important in life?(Relate this to your studies in SMU and life  beyond studies. You can also think about your social media feed)

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Critical thinking is about having the ability to plan your actions before carrying them out. You do not just react, but instead, you pause to ask questions, check for biases, and examine a problem from all perspectives. This helps to make an informed decision.

This skill is very useful in life because it allows me to better understand things and make better decisions. Being able to think critically will benefit me at SMU by allowing me to examine my coursework, consider different points of view, and work on projects and assignments with confidence. It also teaches me how to better utilise social media, distinguish between facts and opinions, and make informed decisions rather than impulsive ones.

For example, when I was in polytechnic, I helped plan an event where student ambassadors were stationed at various booths to show visitors around the school. When we realised that one booth did not have enough people, we had to figure out who was available and how to best reassign the team. We were able to quickly resolve the issue and ensure that the event ran smoothly by carefully considering our options and making sound decisions.

In conclusion, I feel that critical thinking is a very important skill for everyone to have to be able to succeed both at SMU and beyond.

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✅ Concept

The Argument Pyramid is a framework that helps structure essays or arguments in a clear and persuasive way. It has four levels:

Main Point (Claim) – your central position

Reasons (Premises) – why your claim is valid

Supporting Premises – details and explanations that strengthen your reasons

Evidence – credible facts, data, and examples that back everything up

📝 Example

By stacking claim → reasons → supporting premises → evidence, you create a logical, well-supported argument.

🛠️ Application

To build my own pyramid:

1. Decide on my claim (my stance)

2. List the reasons that support it

3. Add supporting premises that explain my reasons

4. Provide strong evidence (facts, data, reliable sources)

📚 What I Have Learned

The Argument Pyramid is a powerful tool to:

Organise my essay logically

Make my reasoning clearer and more persuasive

Ensure every claim is supported by reasons and credible evidence

🔗 Link to Video

https://mediacast.smu.edu.sg/media/The%20Argument%20Pyramid%20-%20Quiz/1_ufo3guv1

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🔍 CRAAP Test (for evaluating sources)

Currency ⏳

Is the source up to date?

Relevance 🎯

Does it address your topic or question?

Authority 🧑‍🏫

Is the author qualified and credible?

Accuracy ✔️

Is the information reliable and supported by evidence?

Purpose 🎭

Why was it written (to inform, persuade, sell, entertain)?

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📚 What is a Synthesis Matrix?

A tool that helps you compare different sources and perspectives on a topic.

It allows you to:

Identify similarities, differences, and gaps among sources.

Develop your own argument or position based on evidence.

It also helps you evaluate credibility and relevance of sources (using the CRAAP test).

🛠️ How to Build a Synthesis Matrix (refer to pic above for reference)

1. Create a table 📊

Columns = number of sources you have

Rows = number of main ideas or questions about the topic

2. Fill in the table ✍️

Write your sources in the first row (across the top).

Write your main ideas/questions in the first column (down the side).

Summarize what each source says about each idea/question.

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✅ 3 Qualities of a Strong Thesis Statement

1. Takes a clear stance on an issue (must be debatable)

2. Provides reasons (premises) to justify your claim

3. Keeps your argument focused & relevant

📝 Example of a Thesis Statement

Fast food tastes good but is full of fat, sugar and salt that increases the risks of obesity and heart disease.

🖊️ How to Write a Thesis Statement

Thesis Statement = Your Position + Premises/ Reasons

(Summarise your position on the topic/issue) ____________________ because ____________________ and ____________________ (Premise #1) and (Premise #2)

The thesis statement typically comes at the end of your introduction paragraph

🔗 Link to video

https://mediacast.smu.edu.sg/media/How%20to%20Write%20Strong%20Thesis%20Statements/1_azwpbm8y

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b) Reflection on AI Performance (Context, Audience, Purpose, Structure) & Future Use of GAI

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b) Reflection on AI Performance (Context, Audience, Purpose, Structure) & Future Use of GAI

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My comments on the email by GAI are as follows:

Overall:
The AI did a good job understanding the general situation and purpose of the email, but there are areas where it could be improved, especially for a busy, professional audience like Ms Susheela.

Context:
The AI understood that Serene lost her phone, runs a small business, and needs a stylish, practical phone. It correctly recommended options suitable for content creation, battery life, and storage.

Audience:
This is where AI fell short. Ms Susheela is a very busy corporate lawyer, so she would likely prefer quick, easy-to-digest comparisons rather than long paragraphs. While bullet points are helpful, a side-by-side comparison table would make the information even easier for her to digest. AI also did not include a formal address (“Ms Susheela”) or a brief introduction of who I am as a student helping her, which would establish credibility. Additionally, the final recommendation could have been emphasis upfront to save her time.

Purpose:
The AI understood that the goal was to inform and persuade Ms Susheela about which phones to choose. It explained features and gave a recommendation. However, the persuasion could be stronger if it emphasised why one phone better addresses Serene’s specific needs (e.g., content creation workflow, long battery life, storage for media files).

Structure:
The AI followed a logical sequence: greeting → context → phone options → recommendation → closing. For a busy audience, the structure could be improved to: greeting → context → recommendation upfront → table comparison → closing. This allows Ms Susheela to immediately see the top choice while reviewing the details efficiently.

How I Would Use GAI More Effectively in the Future:

Provide AI with a clear understanding of CAPS (Context, Audience, Purpose, Structure) so it can tailor the email more precisely (e.g., “Ms Susheela is very busy, prefers quick summaries and tables, and expects formal address”).

Specify the tone and level of formality based on the audience.

Give AI all specific details available, such as latest phone models, storage, battery, and camera requirements.

Ask AI to produce comparisons in tables for clarity and readability.

Request that AI highlight the recommendation upfront and include a brief self-introduction of the sender.

Use AI to draft multiple versions, then select or combine the best parts.

Always fact-check and update details, including the latest phone models, specifications, and features.

Recognise that AI may miss subtle audience cues, so human review is necessary to adjust tone, formality, and emphasis.

# data[].attributes.body
Subject: Phone Recommendations for Serene’s Birthday

Dear Susheela,

I hope you are doing well. Thank you for sharing Serene’s needs — balancing her studies with running her fashion business is no easy task, and the right phone will definitely support her in both areas. After considering her requirements, I’ve shortlisted two of the best options currently available:

1. Apple iPhone 16 Pro

Cameras: Advanced quad-camera system with exceptional photo and video quality, especially in low light — perfect for Instagram and TikTok.

Integration: Seamless compatibility with popular business and creative apps, plus smooth iOS ecosystem experience.

Security: Industry-leading privacy and security features to protect business transactions.

Battery & Storage: Strong all-day battery life and up to 1TB of storage for large media files.

Design: Stylish titanium finish, modern and fashionable, matching Serene’s aesthetic.

2. Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra

Cameras: Cutting-edge 200MP camera with AI-powered enhancements for stunning social media content.

Performance: Snapdragon 8 Elite processor, long-lasting battery (up to 31 hours video playback), and up to 1TB storage.

Security: Samsung Knox ensures secure payments and data protection.

AI Features: Galaxy AI assists with editing, productivity, and even business management tools.

Design: Sleek titanium body with a durable and premium look.

Final Recommendation:
Both phones are excellent choices. If Serene values a seamless Apple ecosystem and stylish design, the iPhone 16 Pro would be ideal. However, for maximum versatility in content creation and storage, I would recommend the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra. It offers more flexibility for her growing online business while still being fashionable.

Please let me know if you’d like me to share price comparisons or availability options.

Warm regards,
Tan Si Xuan

# data[].attributes.headline
Question 1: a) Generate an email for Susheela using GAI and upload it to padlet b) Comment on whether AI was able to grasp Context, Audience, Purpose and Structure well? How would you more effectively use GAI, if you were to write an important email in future?

# data[].attributes.subject
Question 1: a) Generate an email for Susheela using GAI and upload it to padlet b) Comment on whether AI was able to grasp Context, Audience, Purpose and Structure well? How would you more effectively use GAI, if you were to write an important email in future?

# data[].attributes.body
1. Clear 🔍

Is my main idea easy to identify?

Are my supporting ideas straightforward and easy to understand?

2. Concise ✂️

Are my ideas brief and to the point?

Am I avoiding unnecessary words or repetition?

3. Coherent 🔗

Are my points connected and relevant to the main idea?

Does the tone and flow stay consistent throughout?

# data[].attributes.body
1. Persuade 🗣️

Aim: Convince the audience to share your opinion or take action

How:

Use strong arguments

Provide solid evidence (facts, stats, expert opinions)

2. Inform 📚

Aim: Share knowledge, explain ideas, or give instructions

How:

Be clear, accurate, and well-structured

Stick to facts

3. Entertain 🎭

Aim: Capture interest and engage emotions

How:

Be creative, expressive, and vivid

Keep the audience hooked

# data[].attributes.body
1. Context 📝

What is the situational/cultural context?

What is the communication context?

What do you need to communicate? Using what channel?

2. Audience 👥

Who are they?

What do they care about?

3. Purpose 🎯

Is the purpose of your communication to persuade, inform and/or entertain the audience? (PIE)

What are some effective techniques you can employ to achieve your purpose?

4. Structure 🏗️

What information will you include?

How would you organise your points to enhance the flow and cohesion of ideas?