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Career and Technical Training

Formal Writing Using

Plain Language

Special opportunity to take individual course modules August and September 2012 Learn how to write complex and compelling documents that are clear, concise and easy to understand! Dont miss this special opportunity to attend one or more of the Formal Writing Using Plain Language course modules listed below.
Module
Addressing Data Calls: Emphasizing accuracy, diplomacy and professionalism, this module offers hands-on writing strategies to address data calls, use job aids to select the appropriate format for the response and identify Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) requests. Drafting Memorandums: Communicating effectively to internal audiences is the central theme of this module. Participants practice hands-on writing strategies to draft clear and concise memorandums that successfully convey complex information, establish policy guidance or request action. Writing Issue Briefs: Keeping senior leadership informed is the focus of this module. Participants practice writing strategies for thoroughly summarizing information on an issue or event that may affect the organization, and delivering clear and effective issue briefs. Responding to Congressional Inquiries: Reinforcing the goals of crafting reader-focused writing, this module offers hands-on writing strategies for tailoring written communications for positive impact and delivering succinct and diplomatic responses to congressional inquiries. Additional modules on next page

Date
Aug 7 Sep 4

Time
8 a.m.-noon

Aug 7 Sep 4

1-5 p.m.

Aug 8 Sep 5

8 a.m.-noon

Aug 8 Sep 5

1-5 p.m.

Register Now!

You can register for a module in one of three ways: to the Talent Management System (TMS).

Select the link in the table, which will take you directly
Call 877-503-7110 between 8:30 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. EST. Send an email to VAProgramTraining@dai-solutions.com.

Locations are listed in TMS and are also provided when you call or email.

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Module

Career and Technical Training

Date
Aug 9 Sep 6

Time

Evaluating Data and Summarizing Findings: Focusing on effectively presenting data for greatest impact, this module introduces the Introduction, Methods, Results and Discussion (IMRAD) format; addresses the differences between quantitative and qualitative data; and offers writing strategies for accurately presenting and summarizing findings for all audiences. Writing for Results: Tying together the procurement process and VAs mission to care for Veterans, this module offers strategies for delivering clear, accurate and effective procurement responses, including requests for proposals (RFPs), statements of work (SOWs), performance work statements (PWSs) and proposals for initiatives. Writing Strategic Plans: Ensuring an organization remains relevant and responsive to the needs of its community is the principal theme of this module. Participants review the definition, purpose and major components of a strategic plan. They practice writing strategies for delivering coherent, clear vision and mission statements, values, overall goals and SMART (specific, measurable, attainable, relevant and timely) objectives. Writing Grants: Centered on meeting Veterans needs through innovation and initiative, this module provides approaches for identifying and targeting potential award and funding opportunities for proposed or ongoing projects and initiatives. It also provides strategies for writing clear, concise and compelling grant responses. Writing Business Cases: Presenting clear and compelling justifications for proposals is the focus of this module. Participants practice strategies for writing accurate and convincing business cases for decision makers. Writing Position Papers: Generating awareness or support for an issue is the central theme of this module. Participants practice strategies for effectively summarizing an issue, presenting supporting facts and proposing solutions with the goal of delivering succinct and compelling position papers.

8 a.m.-noon

Aug 9 Sep 6

1-5 p.m.

Aug 14 Sep 11

8 a.m.-noon

Aug 14 Sep 11

1-5 p.m.

Aug 15 Sep 12

8 a.m.-noon

Aug 15 Sep 12

1-5 p.m.

Attend the Launch on July 31, 2012

VA Learning University (VALU) is offering these modules as part of the Formal Writing Using Plain Language course launch. Come to the launch event to find out more! Date: Time: July 31, 2012 11 a.m.-11:30 a.m.

Please note that VA Learning University will not reimburse for travel expenses. Remember to complete the e-learning prerequisite module in TMS first! For more information, please contact Terik Hartz, VALU Education Program Specialist, at Terik.Hartz@va.gov or call 877-503-7110.

More Information

Location: G.V. Sonny Montgomery Veterans Conference Center 810 Vermont Avenue, NW Washington, D.C. 20420

Get ready to take another step in your journey to better writing.