Devitt and Genre

I find interesting when assignments brings out  different perspectives. Prior this blog i didn't think much about genres and the influence it can have. When i think of a movie or book genres i think of science fiction and fantasy. Like Harry Potter or a Disney Princess. For music the list can go on and on. Jazz, County, Hip-Hop, Ballroom, Rock, alternative.... 

I understood that genres had different audience along with tone. But i did not take into consideration that genres had the potential of so much more then what you read or write. 

However reading Devitt's article it puts into perspective that genre is not just simply a theme or style but has certain intentions. Genre becomes a representation of certain values, beliefs and assumptions. which will promote particular worldviews. Becoming its own language. Genres come with a  type of persona, being structured based on certain ideology. Different genres can be used based on your audience.

  

For example, at SDSU some writing genres I have used include speeches, essays and autobiography. Speeches being molded on what you are presenting. Whether it is to be informative, persuasive, or take a stance. Each type of speech will be addressed differently. Genres in class tend to be more formal. When i took communication, i was more concerned on how i was going to address my speech. Well i was also terrified on the fact that i had to get up and talk in front of the whole class. However what made it easier is defining my audience and what i was presenting. If i was giving a speech on the research i had done about couch surfing and convincing the audience that its a great idea. Then i related to the fact that we are broke college students with desires to travel. The genre being a contributing factor on how my speech was developed and presented. 

Where as at work the genres that tend to be used are picture story, fairy tale, fantasy, short story. Working with kids changes the type of genre that is used to grab their attention. With the hopes of not only entertaining them but teaching them something new. With using theses types of genres it alllows me to connect with the kids. When kids coming in they are being left in our care and out job is to make them feel comfortable and connect with them. I wouldnt sit down with a 3 year old and start talking about politics. They would look at me weird and then cry because there parents have left them in a unknown place. But if i start talking about things they are interested in. Such as dinosaurs or the new Finding Dory movie. i able to have a conversation and relate to them all because i am communicating in a type of genre they are familiar and comfortable with. 

  

Each genre that is encounter whether it's in class, at work or just during the day to day is unique. the reason each genre is unique is based on the environment. Based on your audience, you tend to select the appropriate genre. In class you are there to learn and show what you have learned so far. So you want to appear knowledgeable and be assertive and interactive. At work it's a professional atmosphere so its more polite, respectful, team worker. Not that you shouldn't treat others with respect.

 Different settings call for us to use different types of genres. This allows us to adapt to an atmosphere and the way we communicate.through the use of different genres.  Which allows us  to appeal to our audience at hand. With the ability to build a a better connection with our audience. As well as  being more efficient in getting a goal or task done. Whatever that may be to who ever it is we are addressing .