Other Devices

Statistics and quotes from authorities are two other devices used to give credence to a point, add more information, give it more depth as well as add sparkle.  Dialogue from the use of quotes breaks up tiresome paragraphs of straight exposition.

            Quotes:  They can be used directly or indirectly.

1.      Direct—“You’re only as old as you feel,” says Jim White.

2.      Indirect—Jim White says you’re only as old as you feel.

Who is the “authority?”  It is anyone you can use by name or title who has expert knowledge about the point you are making.

1.      Academic achievement

2.      Accomplishment

3.      Specialty in a field

4.      Experience

Example:

“It’s time men are styling their hair instead of just cutting it off,” says Jacques Bafoon, a Los Angeles barber who has won many awards in hair styling.

General Quote:  The writer can make his piece sound authoritative without quoting any person in particular, such as:

            Many psychologists agree that children want discipline.  Or, in using direct quote:  “Real estate is a great field for a woman,” says a successful realtor in one of the western states.  However, don’t just invent things to make your point unless you know the statement would be true.

Statistics:  Statistics give depth to an article.  When figures are quoted from government bulletins or other acceptable sources, the reader accepts them as undisputable facts.  The source of the statistics should be given because it makes you saying it indisputable.

Example:

In Portland, Oregon, Dr. Harold Osterud, chairman of the Department of Public Health and Preventive Medicine at the University of Oregon Medical School, reports that one out of every 12 babies born in that state is illegitimate.  In 1950 it was one out of 53; in 1960, one out of 30.  More than half these unwed mothers are teenagers; 20 to 24 year-olds are the next largest group.

Nationwide, illegitimate births have now topped 300,000 a year, the Department of Health, Education and Welfare reports.  A shocking 243,900 of these are from mothers between the ages of 15 and 24.

Assignmnet:  Write two or three paragraphs from two of the following subjects using statistics and quotes from authorities to prove your point.  Make up your own statistics and authorities.

1.      The population explosion has taken a downward swing.

2.      What effect will the teenage vote now have?

3.      Who makes the better driver, men, women, or teenagers?

4.      Are wilderness areas becoming overcrowded?