Span 122 Keys to Successful Compositions in Spanish
Objetivo: In Spanish 122, you will learn to write friendly letters and similar messages. Today you will practice evaluating your writing and making improvements with effective editing and proofreading.
Instrucciones: Read the sample composition on pages 2 and 3 of this document; then continue with the activities below.
A. Editar. Editing involves checking the content and organization of your writing. Ask yourself the following questions about the sample composition on pages 2 and 3. Then, make any changes needed by writing directly on the sample.
Audience: This letter is meant to be read by a new friend. Does the style reflect this audience? Is the tone friendly? Is the content interesting? Are there appropriate questions?
Three parts: Is there a strong sense of beginning, middle and end?
Paragraphs: Does each paragraph deal with one main topic? Is there a clear topic sentence for each paragraph? Should something be added or deleted?
Transitions: Transition words (like y, pero, porque, también, primero, antes de, después, luego, más tarde) help connect ideas smoothly.
Do the sentences "flow" together? Where could transition words be added? Which short sentences could be logically combined?
B. Corregir. Proofreading involves checking primarily for accuracy - grammar, vocabulary, punctuation, spelling, and format. After editing the sample letter, check it for each of the following and make corrections. NOTE: Correct the 10 underlined errors and then try to find THREE more that are not underlined for you.
Verbs: Does each verb "match" its subject? Is the form correct? Is the correct time frame expressed (present, past or future)?
Adjectives: Does each adjective "match" its noun in number (singular/plural)? In gender (masculine /feminine)? Is it in the right position? Are appropriate articles (el, la , un ,