Essay B: Cypress College and ____ (your choice)
Choose two colleges or universities: Cypress College and one of your choice. Look at the way they present themselves in the “Who We Are” section at Cypress College and the equivalent section of the other. Then, Analyze the similarities and differences between these schools, focusing specifically on their use of language. Consider the following:
Who is the intended audience?
Do you notice any propaganda or weasel words?
What examples of selection, slanting, or charged language do they include? (Think about what information is NOT mentioned.)
Overall, what patterns do you notice in the way that language is used by these schools?
Overall, what does this show you about the advertising strategies?
Based on this information, do you believe this is effective? Is it unfair or misleading to consumers (students or potential students) in any way?
I expect you to include at LEAST two direct quotations each from the two texts that you are analyzing (for a total of four). You should also include explanations of key concepts (weasel words, types of propaganda, etc.) by using direct quotations or paraphrases of readings from Language Awareness chapter nine. (This is not a research assignment. Do not use any other sources unless you get them approved by me before writing your first draft.) Essay A needs one direct quotation. Essay B needs both.
