True or False

This structural device is reserved primarily for catchy marketing materials. The setup is gamelike, inviting the reader to participate by guessing whether the statement is true or false. Since all great devices wither with use, use this structure for only a page or two.Use with

Transitions include

In this sample from an automobile insurance company newsletter, the reader is compelled not only to read but to think about the message:

Test your safety know-how by answering these true or false
questions:

True or false? Air bags are 100% effective in preventing injuries
due to accidents.

False. While air bags do cut down the number of deaths and injuries, they are not completely effective. In fact, they can even cause injuries.

True or false? Air bags can open at a rate of 100 miles per hour.

True. Air bags are exceedingly fast, which can be dangerous to infants and elderly passengers.

TRY THIS! Each of these paragraphs contains one or more structural devices. Identify them, then revise the paragraph using different options.

1.

Through the years, The Thompson School graduates have returned to our halls and classrooms for visits. They recall their first day in the new school: their curiosity, their excitement, their fear. They tell us about how they gradually adjusted as they became more deeply involved in the classroom and extracurricular experiences. And, of course, they remember with some sadness the day, four years later, when they graduated. As they left our doors, though, they carried numerous advantages. They had a solid foundation in reading, writing, math, and other core skills. More important, they could apply these skills to everyday challenges. Most important, though, they had the selfconfidence to create a life that would allow them and their new families to grow and flourish.

2.

Like businesses everywhere, you have a problem: your overhead is threatening to exceed your profits. And we have a solution: our exclusive Print Program. Within the first year of using our program, your organization will save a full 15% on your current costs for printed materials. Chances are, you have a second problem, too: your staff is tied up with too many details and not enough time to address them all. Our Print Program is hassle-free because we do all the work in these three steps: A. Analysis and Design. We’ll develop a comprehensive plan covering everything from the most competitively priced design of your materials to the most efficient storage and distribution system. B. Storage. So you have more warehouse space, we’ll store your materials free of charge, and deliver the material where you want and when you want it with only four hours’ notice. C. Regular updates. With our computerized system, we’ll update you as to how much material you’ve used, how much you have in stock, and what’s given you the greatest return for your investment.

To ensure a comfortable, homey environment, always greet new arrivals by name and ask how they are feeling. If you notice someone having a hard time on the machines or searching for the right locker, offer to help. Be sure to keep the club clean, too. If you notice a spill, litter, or wet towel on the floor, pick it up. If a member complains about a dirty sink or shower, check the situation yourself; then, if the problem is complicated, call the janitorial service listed in the main office. Most important though, create a safe environment. If you see that a member has poor posture when lifting weights, correct it. If a member is using free weights that are too heavy, suggest a change. These details can mean the difference between a satisfied member and an injured one.

TRY THIS, too. Writed own each point from one or two letters or other short documents you have recently written. Then, rearrange that list, placing your information in two or three different orders. Be clear about why you have structured your list each way.