The letter in Figure 9.10 was sent to American households after the U.S. Congress passed a stimulus package in May 2020. Critique it in small groups. Here are some questions to get you started:

1. What are the purposes of this letter?

2. How well does this letter inform the audience of its purpose?

3. Does the letter violate any of the guidelines for constructing informational messages you read about in this chapter?

If so, which ones?

4. What kind of impression is given to readers by the document design choices?

As your instructor directs,

a. Write an email to your instructor summarizing your group discussion.

b. As a group, record your answers to the questions, plus other observations you made. Trade summaries with another group. Where did they agree with you? Disagree?

What observations did they make that your group did not?

Write an email to your instructor summarizing the differences between the two critiques. Submit the email and the two critiques to your instructor.

Figure 9.10

Transcribed Image Text:

THE WHITE HOUSE WASHINGTON Your Economic Impact Payment Has Arrived My Fellow American: NOTICE DATE: May 6, 2020 NOTICE NUMBER: 1444 (EN-SP) Our great country is experiencing an unprecedented public health and economic challenge as a result of the global coronavirus pandemic. Our top priority is your health and safety. As we wage total war on this invisible enemy, we are also working around the clock to protect hardworking Americans like you from the consequences of the economic shutdown. We are fully committed to ensuring that you and your family have the support you need to get through this time. On March 27, 2020, Congress passed with overwhelming bipartisan support the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act), which I proudly signed into law. I want to thank the United States House of Representatives and the United States Senate for working so quickly with my Administration to fast-track this $2.2 trillion in much-needed economic relief to the American people. This includes fast and direct economic assistance to you. I am pleased to notify you that as provided by the CARES Act, you are receiving an Economic Impact Payment of $ by direct deposit. We hope this payment provides meaningful support to you during this period. Every citizen should take tremendous pride in the selflessness, courage and compassion of our people. America's drive, determination, innovation and sheer willpower have conquered every previous challenge-and they will conquer this one too. Just as we have before, America will triumph yet again--and rise to new heights of greatness. We will do it together, as one nation, stronger than ever before. President Donald J. Trump For more information on your Economic Impact Payment, visit IRS.gov/coronavirus or call 800-919-9835.