AT LEAST 200 WORDS EACH DISCUSSION:

DISCUSSION 1:

Many have argued that a prison is an unsuitable place for criminals who may have mental health issues. What do you think? Should mentally ill offenders be incarcerated in prisons and jails? Why, or why not?

DISCUSSION 2:

Throughout this unit, we have discussed ways that illustrations can help to convey a point or to exemplify an idea that a writer is trying to communicate. No doubt, you find yourself in situations all the time in which you must use illustrations. Think about a time when you conveyed a point to someone—a friend, relative, coworker, or colleague—and used an exceptionally apt illustration to drive home a point. You can also write about a time that someone provided you with an enlightening example that crystalized an idea for you. You might also choose to write about how you use illustrations in your daily life.

Do you use illustrations to teach others? How have you used examples to win an argument, teach your child a difficult lesson, or to explain a problem? In what ways are illustrations a part of your daily interactions with others?

DISCUSSION 3:

In Lesson 1, we discussed audience awareness. As you move forward in our course, think about audience. Think about audience in all things that you do. If your coffee is not right at Starbucks, then think about the barista as your audience before you air your grievances. If you need to bring something up to your superior, consider how you are automatically aware of audience as you plan your strategy.

For this discussion board, consider all of the different audiences you encounter throughout the day on a weekly basis. Who do you talk to and encounter? How do you change your approach with each audience? Do you speak differently to friends than you do to your children? If you have to call an insurance company, do you speak differently to the agent on the phone than to your grandmother? Describe at least two interactions and how they are different from one another. You might want to include two interactions that describe your life situation, like where you work or live.

DISCUSSION 4:

Part II: Got goals? A popular phrase on the Internet is that your goals do not care how you feel. Although this is a layman's philosophy of life, it possesses some great truths. What do you think about this outlook? How do you handle situations when your goals seem to get the best of you?