Essay #1: Summary and Response
Length: 2-3 pages
Primary Source:
Heather Douglas, “The Dark Side of Science”
Purpose:
In this assignment, you will develop an original argument directly in response to the argument of another writer. Specifically, you will practice critical reading skills, presenting a clear and precise argument in your thesis statement, supporting your thesis with effective paragraphs, and incorporating sources (by quoting, summarizing, and paraphrasing) in MLA format (through in-text citations and Works Cited page).
Summary and Introduction:
In the introductory paragraph, you will present a summary (5-7 sentences) of the author’s
main argument and key points
. No need to give examples from the article; you’ll do that in the body of your essay. The
summary should be written in your own words,
followed by an in-text citation. Remember, the argument isn’t merely what the article is “about,” but rather what the
writer is actively trying to persuade you to think or feel about a particular issue or subject.
Thesis statement:
You may draw from the *three templates we discussed in class:
1. “Disagree – and Explain Why”2. “Agree – But With a Difference”3. “Agree and Disagree Simultaneously”
*Adapted from
They Say, I Say
Remember that the above are not merely fill-in-the-blanks responses, but rather, templates to help you brainstorm and articulate your thesis. Feel free to adapt as needed.
Supporting argument/body:
Next, you’ll “prove” and support your thesis throughout the body of your essay (3-5 body paragraphs). Each body paragraph should include a clear
topic sentence
and supporting examples from the text.
Conclusion:
Re-emphasize and expand on your own argument. Reflect on why this topic is important beyond the scope of your essay. Remember tone as well – these are your closing remarks to the reader.
- must be a statement of assertion (claims)
- should not be a fact or an observation
- someone familiar w/ article could reasonably disagree
...
Essay #1 Summary and ResponseLength 2-3 pagesPrimary Sourc
1. Essay #1: Summary and Response
Length: 2-3 pages
Primary Source:
Heather Douglas, “The Dark Side of Science”
Purpose:
In this assignment, you will develop an original argument
directly in response to the argument of another writer.
Specifically, you will practice critical reading skills, presenting
a clear and precise argument in your thesis statement,
supporting your thesis with effective paragraphs, and
incorporating sources (by quoting, summarizing, and
paraphrasing) in MLA format (through in-text citations and
Works Cited page).
Summary and Introduction:
In the introductory paragraph, you will present a summary (5-7
sentences) of the author’s
main argument and key points
. No need to give examples from the article; you’ll do that in
the body of your essay. The
summary should be written in your own words,
followed by an in-text citation. Remember, the argument isn’t
merely what the article is “about,” but rather what the
writer is actively trying to persuade you to think or feel about a
particular issue or subject.
Thesis statement:
2. You may draw from the *three templates we discussed in class:
1. “Disagree – and Explain Why”2. “Agree – But With a
Difference”3. “Agree and Disagree Simultaneously”
*Adapted from
They Say, I Say
Remember that the above are not merely fill-in-the-blanks
responses, but rather, templates to help you brainstorm and
articulate your thesis. Feel free to adapt as needed.
Supporting argument/body:
Next, you’ll “prove” and support your thesis throughout the
body of your essay (3-5 body paragraphs). Each body paragraph
should include a clear
topic sentence
and supporting examples from the text.
Conclusion:
Re-emphasize and expand on your own argument. Reflect on
why this topic is important beyond the scope of your essay.
Remember tone as well – these are your closing remarks to the
reader.
- must be a statement of assertion (claims)
- should not be a fact or an observation
- someone familiar w/ article could reasonably disagree
