Logical or Formal Definition

1
Logical or Formal Definition

• Includes
• Term
• Class
• Differentia or Distinguishing Features

2
Formal Examples

• An ohmmeter is an indicating instrument that
  directly measure the resistance of an electrical
  circuit
• The Superpave Gyratory Compactor is an asphalt
  testing machine that . ..

3
More Examples

• A transit is a land-surveying instrument used to
  measure horizontal and vertical angles.

4
Distinguish or Differentiate

• Name its essential properties
• Explain what it does
• Describe what it is made of or what it looks like
• Explain how to make or do it

5
Avoid

• Circular definitions
• Do not us the term itself
• A designated hitter is a hitter
• A designated hitter is a baseball player (class)
  who

6
Use positive statements

• Beer is not a wine
• Beer is . . . . .

7
Use form of to be

• For grammatical consistency
• Not Osmosis is when
• But Osmosis is a water-purification process in
  which . . . . .

8
Pattern of Organization

• Introduction
• Defining sentences
• Term, class and start of distinguish from other
  members from class
• Transition into 2-3 body paragraphs

9
Transition Examples

• The SGC is capable of producing test specimens
  for volumetric analysis and then recording the
  performance data of asphalt mixes.

10
Another Example

• What sets the vertical takeoff and landing civil
  transport (VTOL/CT) apart from conventional
  aircraft is its forward flight performance and
  its high-speed cruise performance.

11
Body Paragraphs (2-3)

• Develop uniqueness of term from others in class
• Use notes from class
• Key ideas in topic sentence directly related to
  transition from intro.

12
Topic Sentence Examples

• The SGCs primary function is to produce test
  specimens for volumetric analysis.
• The SGC records performance data of asphalt mixes.

13
Conclusion paragraph

• Conclude by summarizing
• Main idea of paper
• Key ideas from each body paragraph
• Tie paper together

14
Plan Graphic

• Related to key idea
• Interpreted and Referred in text
• Number and descriptive title
• Caption with key idea

15
Write a Transmittal Memo

• Direct to immediate audience
• Orient audience to attached topic paper

16
Transmittal Letter/Memo

• Specialized letters or memos
• Function as introductory cover letter to report
• Directed to main audience member assigning report

17
Transmittal Memos

• Need a short one for Assignments 5, 6 7
• Orient reader about topic papers
• Need to be realistic
• Practice for big reports

18
Letter/Memo of Transmittal

• When do you use Memo?
• internal
• When do you use Letter?
• external internal
• Attach to front of report or after title page

19
Transmittal Guidelines Cont

• State topic indicate report is attached
• Establish purpose of report
• Explain Why, When by Whom report authorized
• Give Brief Summary

20
Transmittal Guidelines Cont

• Stress Key Information
• Include comments that might not fit in the report
  (planned future report?)
• End with a sense you appreciate having the
  opportunity to prepare the report

21
Transmittal Cont

• Pattern of Organization
• Introduction--Orient readers
• Middle--emphasize one main benefit
• Last--appreciation and offer to answer questions