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Science and Health Writing

The document defines and distinguishes between two types of science writing. Science writing refers to writing about scientific topics for a non-expert audience in an entertaining way (Definition 1, also called popular science writing). Scientific writing refers to formally reporting scientific observations and results according to technical conventions (Definition 2, more commonly known as scientific writing). The purpose and audiences are different for each type of writing. Both types of science writing are important forms of scientific outreach.

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858 views

Science and Health Writing

The document defines and distinguishes between two types of science writing. Science writing refers to writing about scientific topics for a non-expert audience in an entertaining way (Definition 1, also called popular science writing). Scientific writing refers to formally reporting scientific observations and results according to technical conventions (Definition 2, more commonly known as scientific writing). The purpose and audiences are different for each type of writing. Both types of science writing are important forms of scientific outreach.

Uploaded by

anon_63797835
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© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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The term science writing refers to writing about a scientific subject matter, often in a non-

technical manner for an audience of non-scientists (a form of journalism or creative nonfiction).


Also called popular science writing. (Definition No. 1)

Science writing may also refer to writing that reports scientific observations and results in a
manner governed by specific conventions (a form of technical writing). More commonly known
as scientific writing. (Definition No. 2)

Examples and Observations

"Because science writing is intended to be entertaining enough to capture the continued


interest of potential readers, its style is much less somber than the usual scientific writing [i.e.,
definition No. 2, above]. The use of slang, puns, and other word plays on the English language
are accepted and even encouraged. . . .

"Distinguishing between science writing and scientific writing is reasonable—they have


different purposes and a different audience. However, one would be ill-advised to use the term
'science writing' or 'popular writing' in a disparaging way. Writing (or providing consultation for
others who are writing) popularized accounts based on scientific research should be an
important part of every scientists' outreach activities. The wider community is essential to
adequate support for scientific endeavors."

An Example of Science Writing: "Stripped for Parts": "Sustaining a dead body until its organs can
be harvested is a tricky process requiring the latest in medical technology. But it's also a distinct
anachronism in an era when medicine is becoming less and less invasive. Fixing blocked
coronary arteries, which not long ago required prying a patient's chest open with a saw and
spreader, can now be accomplished with a tiny stent delivered to the heart on a slender wire
threaded up the leg. Exploratory surgery has given way to robot cameras and high-resolution
imaging. Already, we are eyeing the tantalizing summit of gene therapy, where diseases are
cured even before they do damage. Compared with such microscale cures, transplants—which
consist of salvaging entire organs from a heart-beating cadaver and sewing them into a
different body—seem crudely mechanical, even medieval."

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