Theoretical, empirical, and practical considerations in designing informational text
Informational text has been frequently criticized for being either bland and failing to promote appreciation for a subject or sensualized at the expense of responsible accuracy. This article suggests some guidelines for producing responsible but engaging informational text. Support is provided from cognitive theory, empirical research, and classic maxims of rhetoric. Guidelines include using concrete language in a judicious manner, supporting abstractions with concrete examples and explanations, and the use of personalization. Brief examples are provided.
Keywords: Reading, Comprehension, Reader Engagement, Memory, Interest, Abstractions, Imagery, Concreteness, Dual Coding Theory
Published online: 05 November 1999
https://doi.org/10.1075/dd.1.1.04sad
https://doi.org/10.1075/dd.1.1.04sad
Cited by
Cited by 3 other publications
Bruno Serviliano Santos Farias, Andréa Katiane Ferreira Costa, Arthur Marques, Ana Luiza Lima Rodrigues, Raquel Gomes Noronha & Márcio James Soares Guimarães
Goolsby, Rhonda D. & Mark Sadoski
Hustinx, Lettica & Wilbert Spooren
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