Read the essay once in its entirety without making any marks. Then begin the peer review activity below.
Reverse outline (see Purdue OWL activity)
Identify
the structure of your writing colleague’s essay by outlining the following:
Thesis statement
- supporting topic
- supporting topic
- supporting topic
- supporting topic
Concluding point/evaluation
Ask and answer
critical questions
- Is the thesis statement easy to find?
- Is the thesis statement arguable? In other words, does it attempt to redefine our understanding of something or is it just a statement of fact?
- Does the thesis relate clearly to one of the assigned essay topics?
Now focus on one of the body paragraphs. Comment closely on this paragraph by adding at least three comments. Consider what the author has done well and what he/she might need to work on.
Next evaluate the structure and content of the introduction and conclusion. Do you see repetitive phrasing between the two of them? Suggest revisions or reinforce good variety on the google drive copy of the essay.
Finally, review at least two of the body paragraphs for style and grammar. This should include revision of at least three sentences within the paragraph. Make marks directly on the electronic copy of the essay, and be clear in your suggestions for improvement.
