Summarize and critique Smith's argument. Based on the article, what is her opinion regarding online versus traditional classrooms?
- In your introduction, you should introduce the topic of the article. Why is this topic important? In doing so, you provide the context for your critique of Smith's article. You should then transition to the thesis of your critique. What is your overall assessment of the author's argument?
- Your next section should summarize the work you are critiquing. Include an overview of the major sections and important main ideas and arguments. Make sure you include a statement regarding Smith's overall conclusions.
- Then you should begin evaluating/critiquing the arguments. Take each claim individually and think about the evidence and warrant behind it. Is the evidence true? (If not, can you find evidence to contradict it?) Is the source of the evidence credible? Is there enough evidence? If not, provide examples of evidence that would better support the argument. Is the link between the evidence and claim clear and logical? If so, can you describe why it is logical? If not, what is the problem?
- Another thing to consider is what audience Smith seems to be writing for. Who would read this article? Would her claims and evidence be convincing to this group of people? What could make it better?
- Finally, in your conclusion, restate your overall assessment without repeating it word for word. Wrap up the topic, and like always, include some sort of look towards the future or call for a specific action or discussion on the topic.
Keep questions like these in mind as you read, make notes, and then write the critique. Remember that the sources should support your ideas and not vice versa.
Your critique should show that you can recognize arguments and engage in critical thinking about the content of the article. Keep questions like these in mind as you read, make notes, and then write the critique. Remember, you are not writing about your opinion on the topic, but rather judging how well Smith argues her opinion. IMPORTANT: Write your critique under the assumption that your audience has NOT read the paper. So you should make sure that you introduce things in her essay before you critique them.
You will be graded on your summary of the article and your evaluation of the arguments within the article. The grading rubric can be found HERE.
Your outline is due Friday (3/11), and your rough draft is due Friday (3/18) for peer review. Final drafts will be due after spring break.
You will be graded on your summary of the article and your evaluation of the arguments within the article. The grading rubric can be found HERE.
Your outline is due Friday (3/11), and your rough draft is due Friday (3/18) for peer review. Final drafts will be due after spring break.
