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Position paper

The case for short words

In his essay, “The Case for Short Words,” Richard Lederer talks about why small words are really
important. He says that short words are great because they are easy to understand. They work well for
everyone, even people who might not be good at reading or speaking.

Lederer also says short words help us talk faster and understand things quicker. In a world where people
get distracted easily, short words help us get our message across without wasting time.

Another thing Lederer points out is that short words are super useful because they can say a lot without
needing many letters. They’re like little superheroes of language, helping us express ourselves clearly and
without using too many words.

Lastly, Lederer thinks short words make language sound nicer. They add rhythm and flow to our words,
like music. By using short words, we can make our language sound more beautiful and easier to listen to.

So, according to Richard Lederer, short words are awesome because they’re easy to understand, help us
communicate faster, say a lot in a few letters, and make language sound better.
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Position paper

Doubts about double spea

In his essay “Doubts About Double Speak,” William Lutz talks about why we should be wary of double
speak, which is when people use tricky language to hide the truth. Lutz says double speak makes it hard
for us to understand what’s really going on and holds people less accountable for their actions.

Lutz thinks double speak is a big problem because it tricks us into believing things that might not be true.
When people use fancy words to make bad things sound better, it’s like they’re trying to pull the wool over
our eyes and keep us in the dark about what’s really happening.

He also says that double speak can make us feel like bad things aren’t really that bad. By using soft or
vague words, people can make terrible things seem less serious, which stops us from taking action to fix
them.

Lastly, Lutz warns us that double speak can make us forget about the people who are hurt by it. When we
talk about bad things in a fancy way, we might forget that real people are suffering because of them. This
makes it easier for bad things to keep happening without anyone doing anything about it.

So, according to William Lutz, we should be careful of double speak because it tricks us, makes bad
things seem less serious, and makes us forget about the people who are hurt by it.
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ACTIVITY 1:
Doublespeak involves using language that deliberately disguises or distorts its true meaning. An example
could be calling layoffs “streamlining the workforce” to make it sound less harsh or referring to pollution
as “environmental enhancement” to downplay its negative effects.

ACTIVITY 2:
1. Adults who are mentally sound.
2. Persons who are physically fit.
3. Individuals who are academically accomplished.
4. Adults who are professionally experienced.
5. Persons who are culturally aware.
6. Individuals who are biologically mature.
7. Adults who are legally of voting age.
8. Mature individuals who are socially responsible.
9. Persons who are emotionally stable.
10. Individuals who are financially independent.

ACTIVITY 3:
A. Doublespeak is the use of language that deliberately disguises, distorts, or reverses the
meaning of words. It's often used to manipulate or deceive people by making unpleasant
truths sound more palatable or making harmful actions seem less objectionable.
B. Doublespeak serves multiple purposes, often intertwined with the manipulation of
language to shape perceptions or control information. Primarily, it’s employed to soften the
impact of unpleasant truths or actions, making them more palatable to audiences. This
could involve euphemisms to mask the severity of situations, such as using “collateral
damage” to refer to civilian casualties in military operations. Additionally, doublespeak is
utilized to evade accountability or criticism by obfuscating the true nature of events or
policies. It’s a tool commonly found in propaganda, bureaucratic communication, and
corporate messaging, where it can be used to influence public opinion, maintain authority,
or advance specific agendas. Ultimately, doublespeak reflects the power dynamics
inherent in language, highlighting how words can be wielded to manipulate perception and
shape reality.
C. Doublespeak comes in different forms, each aiming to manipulate language and how we
see things. Euphemisms, like “downsizing” instead of “layoffs,” make tough stuff sound
nicer. Jargon, found in certain fields, uses fancy words to confuse people outside that area,
 such as “therapeutic misadventure” in medicine. When someone says “I’ll consider it,”
they might just be politely saying no. Sometimes, important details are left out on purpose
to trick us, like not mentioning harmful stuff in “all-natural” products. Also, some words get
twisted around to fit someone’s agenda, like calling violent groups “freedom fighters” to
make them seem better. These tricks show up a lot in how people talk, aiming to control
what we think and believe.
D.
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Position paper

With these words, I can sell you anything

In his seminal essay “With These Words, I Can Sell You Anything,” William Lutz delves into the
manipulative power of language in advertising and its profound impact on consumer behavior. Lutz
argues that advertisers strategically use language to distort truth, manipulate emotions, and ultimately
persuade consumers to purchase products or services they may not need or want. While some may view
advertising as harmless or even beneficial, Lutz highlights the ethical implications of deceptive language
and calls for greater awareness and scrutiny of advertising tactics.

Lutz begins by examining the language of advertising, which he describes as “weasel words” – terms that
appear substantial but are actually vague and misleading. These words, such as “helps,” “virtually,” and
“up to,” allow advertisers to make exaggerated claims without providing concrete evidence or guarantees.
By exploiting the ambiguity of language, advertisers create an illusion of credibility and reliability, enticing
consumers to trust their messages unquestioningly.

Moreover, Lutz exposes the prevalence of euphemisms in advertising – terms used to mask the negative
aspects of a product or service. By employing euphemisms, advertisers soften the harsh reality of their
offerings, making them more palatable to consumers. For example, a fast-food restaurant may advertise
its products as “value meals” rather than acknowledging their high caloric content and nutritional
deficiencies. Through euphemistic language, advertisers manipulate perceptions and shape consumer
attitudes towards their products.

Furthermore, Lutz highlights the role of jargon in advertising – specialized language used to create an aura
of expertise and exclusivity. Advertisers employ jargon to convey a sense of authority and sophistication,
positioning their products as superior or cutting-edge. However, Lutz argues that jargon often obscures
meaning and alienates consumers, making them feel ignorant or inadequate. By demystifying jargon and
exposing its manipulative intent, Lutz empowers consumers to see through the façade of expertise and
make informed decisions.

In conclusion, William Lutz’s essay sheds light on the deceptive tactics employed by advertisers to sway
consumer behavior. By dissecting the language of advertising, Lutz reveals the subtle ways in which
words can be used to distort truth, manipulate emotions, and ultimately sell products. Through greater
awareness and critical thinking, consumers can resist the influence of deceptive language and make
choices that align with their genuine needs and values. Lutz’s work serves as a call to
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Position paper

The last leaf

Introduction:

“The Last Leaf” by O. Henry is a poignant short story that explores themes of hope, friendship, and
the power of art to inspire and uplift even in the face of adversity. Set against the backdrop of a cold
and dreary winter, the story follows the lives of three characters whose fates become intertwined in
unexpected ways. Through its rich symbolism and compelling narrative, “The Last Leaf” invites
readers to contemplate the significance of resilience and the enduring human spirit.

Position Statement:

In “The Last Leaf,” O. Henry masterfully portrays the resilience of the human spirit and the
transformative power of selflessness. Through the character of Johnsy, who is on the verge of giving
up hope due to illness, and the selfless actions of her friend Sue and the old artist Behrman, the
story illustrates the profound impact of acts of kindness and sacrifice on individuals facing
adversity. O. Henry suggests that even in the face of seemingly insurmountable challenges, hope
can endure through the kindness of others and the beauty of art.

Conclusion:

“The Last Leaf” by O. Henry is a timeless exploration of the resilience of the human spirit and the
transformative power of kindness, friendship, and art. Through its compelling narrative and rich
symbolism, the story reminds us of the importance of hope, empathy, and selflessness in facing
life’s challenges. As readers, we are invited to reflect on the significance of these themes in our own
lives and to recognize the enduring power of the human spirit to overcome adversity and find beauty
amidst despair.