Why Plain Language?

How important is plain language and how big are its effects? Well, Kira Dreher at the Carnegie Mellon University in Qatar says, ““Plain language may offer an important strategy for advancing social justice, but if used shallowly, it may deflect attention from vulnerable audience groups or other issues of access, and it may re-inscribe existing marginalization” (54). She uses such big words to make the point that Plain Language is so important, and its effects actually start in the classroom –this is where we, Business Communication instructors, come into the picture.

Our students come from different backgrounds, cultures, and even countries. They speak different languages and they have different and unique mindsets. But one thing they have in common is their presence in ENL 265 with the goal of crossing one course off the list that helps them take a step closer to graduation. It’s our job, then, as instructors, to introduce Plain Language in that little time we have with our students. The act of incorporating plain language tactics in the course and explaining how big the effects can be is a great way to see how the effects of plain language go way beyond the classroom.

Let’s explore some great classroom tactics that can get students thinking about Plain Language and where to start. If you’re looking to include more instances of plain language learning in your classroom,(especially if you’re teaching Business Communication) stick around!

Getting started:

• Invite your students to visit https://www.plainlanguage.gov/guidelines/audience/ where they can learn about writing for their audience, this is a great idea to visit while discussing “rhetorical awareness”.
• Once they have explored the importance of knowing their audience and writing for them, ask them to revisit this page and check off the boxes with a piece of their writing, most preferably their cover letters.
• Move down the list on the left hand side of the link above, you will find ideas about pronouns, organizing information, transitions, lists, choosing words, being concise, design, etc.
• Once these ideas have been explored, you will realize that they all match up with the unit concepts and outcomes of ENL 265.
• Plan to incorporate these ideas with each module that corresponds.
• For example, when it’s time to discuss HATS, lead your students to this link https://www.plainlanguage.gov/guidelines/organize/use-lists/
• Again, after each time your students have created a piece of writing, invite them to revisit the link that matches with the weekly lesson and have them (or a partner) determine if the plain language standards have been met.

These exercises seem easy and low-stakes, but once students get accustomed to regularly visiting https://www.plainlanguage.gov/ when they are producing any piece of writing, they will be on the right track to effect the fields that they hope to reach, and therefore make a larger impact in the world. Again, as Dreher says, “The plain-language movement finds an anchor in the fact that effective communication prevents problems and saves time and money for both users and organizations” (55). Look at you, doing all of that!