Writer______________ Reviewer________________

Essay Exam Peer Critique

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1. Read the introduction to the essay. What is the thesis? It should clearly state the subject and define the direction of the essay. Does the thesis directly answer the question? Rate the thesis.

EXCELLENT - 1

VERY GOOD - 2

GOOD - 3

OK - 4

UNCLEAR - 5

2. Does the rest of the essay develop and support the thesis? Does the writer stay focused?

EXCELLENT - 1

VERY GOOD - 2

GOOD - 3

OK - 4

UNCLEAR - 5

3. Underline transitional sentences (topic sentences) for each paragraph in the essay. Write "unclear" next to any topic sentence that does not clearly state the focus of the paragraph.

4. Put brackets around specific examples and supportive details used to defend the thesis. Rate the essay on the number and quality of specific examples used to support the thesis.

EXCELLENT - 1

VERY GOOD - 2

GOOD - 3

OK - 4

UNCLEAR - 5

5. Read the conclusion. Does it tie the points together? Rate the effectiveness of the closing.

EXCELLENT - 1

VERY GOOD - 2

GOOD - 3

OK - 4

UNCLEAR - 5

6. Write a summative paragraph in which you identify the strengths and weaknesses of the essay. What can the writer do to improve?
Assignment: