Write a short letter to this relative, telling him or her what public relations means to you.

Background. Many people are confused about the meaning of public relations, and no uniform definition exists even among public relations practitioners. Meanwhile, some people are critical of what they presume public relations to be about. Nevertheless, some commonly held characteristics of public relations exist. These include two-way communication, research and strategic planning, accuracy and honesty, effective and ethical behavior, and mutual benefits for both an organization and its public.

Scenario. A relative you respect is trying to dissuade you from entering public relations. This person says that public relations practitioners are manipulators who rely on half-truths, spin and hype on behalf of unworthy clients.

Part 1. Write a short letter to this relative, telling him or her what public relations means to you. Address this persons concerns about your likely profession.

Part 2. After writing this letter, freewrite on the following topic: How is my letter an attempt to provide information, and how is it an attempt to persuade the reader? Discuss this with your classmates.
Required Text: Becoming a Public Relations Writer, 6th Edition

Required Electronic Course Materials: Ronald D. Smith

ISBN: 9780367281571

Recommended: AP Stylebook (latest edition)
Chapter 1: Writing and What It Means to You
Chapter 2: Effective Writing
Bivins: Basics of Grammar (online: http://highered.mheducation.com/sites/0073526231/student_view0/the_basics_of_grammar.html)
Bivins: Basics of Style (online: http://highered.mheducation.com/sites/0073526231/student_view0/the_basics_of_style.html)
PRSA Code of Ethics: (online: https://www.prsa.org/AboutPRSA/Ethics/CodeEnglish/index.html#.WHUADXeZPFx)

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