Peer Review

Read the essay, marking it for both positive and negative responses as you read.  On a separate sheet of paper, with the writer's name on top and your name underneath it, respond to the following questions:

1. After reading the essay, but before reading the thesis statement at the end, write what you believe the thesis statement should be. Then read the thesis written at the end. Which is a better thesis? Why?

2. Is this an important thesis?  Does it make a difference to you?  Briefly explain why the essay makes or does not make an important point, in your opinion.

3. Did this essay change your thinking at all?  How?  Be specific about what you learned or what altered your opinions. Why or why not? If not, be specific about it. Did you disagree? Do you not care? Did you already know what the essay says?

4. Number the paragraphs.  For each paragraph summarize briefly what the main point of the paragraph is and how the writer answers the question "How do you know?"

5. For each paragraph, indicate questions that are not answered by the evidence in the paragraph.

6. How could the writer make this essay more interesting or persuasive? Be specific. Where does the writer need to rewrite, clarify, or cut? Where does the writer need to add material, examples, or evidence?