Swales (1987) observes that one of the key traits are the defined genres that are unique to the particular community.
Responses within the "Submissions Forum"— a combination of decision making and giving feedback—became a genre.
This specific genre was characterized by:
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a short yet telling subject line; |
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a generalized introduction giving the members gut reactions; |
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followed by more specific criticism or advice' |
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ending with their individual decision whether the submission should be published or not; and, |
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finally a signature. |
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12/12/99, eWeb Forum: Submissions Subject: It's... cute? [subject line gives away tone & decision of participant] Now, how old is this person? It's cute, i guess, to read those little puppy love stories about people in their teens, but most of the times it's trite and not really that entertaining. and especially with 5th grade romance, it leans a little towards the corny side [gut reaction]. i think where this story lost it's credibility was at the beginning where she (or he?) kept contradicting herself on how she felt about him [more specific feedback]. it seemed.. childish. oh, nevermind [sic]. obviously it was supposed to be that way. overall, this isn't bad writing. it could use a whole lot of revision, and a little less seriousness [advice], as it's really easy to laugh at. "monotonous forests" is a little too much for this piece. I wouldn't say 'scrap it', Emma *smile* but don't publish this [decision]. 10 year old love? gag me with a wooden spoon. Molly [signature] See handout, Figure 1 |
Though there was group cohesion with this genre, individuals varied in the tone of their responses and this became a major area of negotiation and norming.