What's New
TODAY: BPHC Program Updates
Join us for the latest Health Center Program information.
2:30-3:30 p.m. ET
Join the session
Join by phone: 833-568-8863
Webinar ID: 160 631 8174
Passcode: 82796374
|
Heart health tips
Did you know that the leading cause of death in the United States is heart disease? Useful tips for preventing disease include getting enough quality sleep (7-9 hours), choosing heart-healthy foods, and being more active.
See the full fact sheet for more details on these, and other, tips on the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute's heart-healthy living page.
|
Plain language pop-up shop: Short sentences and paragraphs
Editor's note: The Plain Writing Act of 2010 promotes “clear government communication that the public can understand and use.” The Federal Plain Language Guidelines (PDF) address how we should implement the Act. This occasional Insider series will provide plain language tips. If you missed a previous column, visit the Plain language pop-up shop SharePoint site.
Keep it short! Try using short sentences and short paragraphs to make your writing easier to understand.
Short sentences
Shorter sentences are easier to read. They are better at conveying complex ideas. Breaking information into smaller units makes it easier for readers to process.
Express only one idea in each sentence.
|
Don’t Say
|
Say
|
|
Health centers are community-based and patient-directed organizations that deliver comprehensive, high-quality primary health care services to the nation’s underserved individuals and families.
|
Health centers are local clinics. They treat people’s medical, dental, mental health, substance use, and other health care needs.
|
Short paragraphs
Long paragraphs discourage your audience from even trying to understand your material. Short paragraphs are easier to read and understand.
Cover only one topic in each paragraph. Here’s some guidance from writing experts:
- Aim for no more than 150 words in three to eight sentences. Paragraphs should never be longer than 250 words. (Pro tip: You can check the word count on the Review tab of the ribbon at the top of a Word document.)
- Vary paragraph length to make your writing more interesting. If all paragraphs are the same size your writing will be choppy. There is nothing wrong with an occasional one-sentence paragraph.
In addition to breaking material into more shorter paragraphs, consider using a heading for each paragraph (see Plain Language Pop-up Shop: Headings).
To learn more about plain writing, sign up in the HHS Learning Portal for Plain Writing in the Federal Government, a three-hour course offered from 9 a.m.-noon ET on Wednesday, March 12, and Thursday, May 8.
Getting to know Kawana Cohen-Hopkins
Editor’s note: Interested in participating in a “Getting to know” column? Take a look at the questions to see what’s involved and check out our Getting to Know BPHC Staff page.
Meet LT Kawana Cohen-Hopkins, Program Specialist, Compliance Evaluation & Support, OHCPM:
|
Before working at BPHC, what was the most unusual or interesting job you ever had?
National Biosolids Permitting Coordinator at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. I spent a lot of time at wastewater treatment plants.
When I was a kid, I wanted to be:
A TV journalist.
Where did you grow up and what do you like best about your hometown?
Jersey City, New Jersey. I liked its proximity to New York City.
What is your favorite kind of pie?
Pecan (à la mode).
Learn more about Kawana. Email BPHC Insider to submit your name for a future Getting to Know.
|
How satisfied are you with this issue? Give us your feedback.
|
