Do you know how to show, not tell, the reader about a subject? Have you ever "peer reviewed" an essay, or revised an essay based off of a "peer review"? Why write a thesis statement, anyway? This page contains resources for understanding these processes, and more.
The review process should be done by the writer, as well as by the writer's peers. The following video highlights the importance of Peer Review, and provides examples on how to review a work and leave constructive feedback.
The video below explores the differences between quoting, paraphrasing, and summarizing. An additional worksheet is provided below.
Differences between Quoting, Paraphrasing, & Summarizing
This worksheet explains the differences between quoting, summarizing, & paraphrasing. It also provides guidance on when and how to do each.
The video below explores how to improve your writing.
The video below explores the rhetorical situation.
This worksheet helps to identify audience type, and methods for connecting to your audience.
The thesis statement is the most important sentence in your paper. If someone asked you, “What does your paper say?” your answer would be your thesis statement. Everything you write will support this statement.
A good thesis statement usually includes the Main idea of the paper.
ONE idea. The entire paper is based on this statement.
Your opinion or point of view. The thesis statement is not a fact nor a question, but your view of the topic and what you want to say about it.
The purpose of the paper. From the thesis, it should be clear what the paper will do.
Answer to the research question. Ask yourself the question and then answer it with your thesis. Is it truly an answer? (if not, change the question or the answer!)
An element of surprise. This means that the thesis is interesting, engaging, and perhaps not so expected.
Clarity. It should be understandable after one reading and have no mistakes.
Excerpt from City University of Seattle: Academic Writing Guide