Procedural Rhetoric Project - Removing an existing ceiling fan
When trying to decide what I wanted to do for the procedural rhetoric project I wanted it to be a task that I needed to do around the house, and also something that I knew probably wouldn't be common knowledge. I first wanted to write instructions on how to install a ceiling fan. I have replaced 3 ceiling fans in my house and it's not as easy as it seems.
But then I realized that ceiling fans already come with an instruction manual so then I thought maybe I should write the instructions on how to properly remove the existing ceiling fan and prepare to install the new one.
When writing these instructions I actually took down an old ceiling fan and noted the steps I was taking, as well as the tools needed, as I performed the task. There were more steps than I originally thought. I also had to think about safety concerns when writing the content for the instructions. To avoid the possibility of being electrocuted it's important to make sure there is no power to the wires you'll be working with. From a technical writing standpoint we learned that it's important for liability reasons to make sure all precautions are taken. Just by turning the light switch off you may cut the power to the wires, but that's not guaranteed, so to make sure there is no power I added in the instructions to turn the breaker off in the breaker box.
I also made sure to add safety glasses into the instructions because when performing this work you will be staring straight up at what you're working on and it is common for small pieces of drywall, or old paint, to chip away and fall into your face. Protecting your eyes from this is important.
Overall I thought this project was a great practical application of what we have learned so far in technical writing. It really made me pay attention to every step of the process, and it was great practice at being precise with my wording and imagery.
But then I realized that ceiling fans already come with an instruction manual so then I thought maybe I should write the instructions on how to properly remove the existing ceiling fan and prepare to install the new one.
When writing these instructions I actually took down an old ceiling fan and noted the steps I was taking, as well as the tools needed, as I performed the task. There were more steps than I originally thought. I also had to think about safety concerns when writing the content for the instructions. To avoid the possibility of being electrocuted it's important to make sure there is no power to the wires you'll be working with. From a technical writing standpoint we learned that it's important for liability reasons to make sure all precautions are taken. Just by turning the light switch off you may cut the power to the wires, but that's not guaranteed, so to make sure there is no power I added in the instructions to turn the breaker off in the breaker box.
I also made sure to add safety glasses into the instructions because when performing this work you will be staring straight up at what you're working on and it is common for small pieces of drywall, or old paint, to chip away and fall into your face. Protecting your eyes from this is important.
Overall I thought this project was a great practical application of what we have learned so far in technical writing. It really made me pay attention to every step of the process, and it was great practice at being precise with my wording and imagery.
You were so IN COMMAND of this presentation. Your authority was never in doubt. You made it clear, *and* you made me believe I could change a ceiling fan w/out electrocuting myself! (that's a tall order, as i'm afraid of the wires).
ReplyDelete