Paper Revision Advice

REVISION ADVICE!

Our Week 5 materials wisely suggest that we review our draft on 2 levels:

1) Whole paper –

Is there a clear, arguable (controversial) thesis that merits development, elaboration, and substantiation?

Is there an introductory paragraph that grabs the attention of the readers and states the paper’s thesis?

Are all terms clearly defined, and is precise language used?

Is the tone formal enough to keep from devaluing the message?

Is the writing free of clichés, sexist language, inflated language aimed at impressing, or language that might offend?

When evidence is presented or testimony of authorities offered, is it clear and effective?

How clear is the analysis of the issues involved, and is the analysis rooted in well-documented sources?

Are any and all assumptions you put forward backed by evidence?

In offering a resolution to a problem, do you discuss other possible solutions as well? Are the ramifications of the solution discussed?

Can you find any evidence of fallacious arguments, misuse of statistics, or biased or distorted argument by authorities?

2) Paragraphs –

· Find a basic point made by the paragraph:

1. See that the paragraph relates to the essay's main idea and to the previous paragraph.

2. Determine if some paragraphs should be deleted, divided into 2 or more paragraphs, combined, or perhaps put elsewhere.

3. Conclude that each sentence is clearly related to the sentence before it and to the sentence that follows.

4. Decide that each paragraph is adequately developed with sufficient details.

· Are proper citations in place to document paraphrasing, summarization, and/or quotations?

· If there are quotations, are they introduced properly and their significance noted? (Do not just drop quote in to do the talking for you!)

· Is there a conclusion that wraps up the paper and restates your argument?

· If you read the paper aloud, would you stumble over any of the sentences because they do...