Peer Editing Worksheet

Writer's Name:

Editor's Name: · Exchange papers with a partner; read through your partner’s essay carefully. · Correct any grammatical errors as you read the essay. · Complete the worksheet below. Avoid "yes" or "no" answers to the questions; instead, make specific suggestions that will help your partner revise the paper effectively. · Once the worksheet has been completed pass it back (or email it) to your partner and discuss the points you’ve made. Keep in mind that the comments on the worksheet are suggestions by your partner and that you need to decide what to heed and change.

Worksheet

What is the topic of the paper? Is it a serious, debatable topic?

Has the writer addressed the assignment (persuasive essay, critical review, etc.)? Why or why not?

Is the lead-in interesting (Hook)? Why or why not?

What is the thesis statement? Is it effectively stated? Is there a clear statement of the author’s opinion? Is there a clarifying sentence? Does he/she provide a reason list?

Are the topics introduced clearly? Suggest alternative phrasings. If there any paragraphs for which you could not find a topic sentence, indicate the paragraph number.

Does each topic sentence relate clearly to the thesis? Which paragraph seems to have the most interesting and convincing details? Why?

Does the author use emotional and logical appeals throughout the body paragraphs? Write down the arguments that employ such techniques.

How can they add any other logical or emotional appeals in the essay?

Has the writer used effective sources (i.e. to support, illustrate points made)? Where can support (quotes, examples, facts, statistics, etc.) be added? Where does the writer need to explain the supporting details more clearly?

Is the support incorporated smoothly (and correctly) and explained so that the point or relevance is clear? Are citations correctly formatted using MLA/APA style?

Can you identify any fallacies in the argument of the essay?

Has the writer provided a works cited list and used correct documentation conventions— does he/she cite his/her sources?

Mark any references that are not documented properly. Does the writer avoid “fence-sitting”? If so, where and how can it be fixed?

Is there an effective counter-argument? Write down what the counter-argument is. I

Does the author state why the counter-argument is flawed or blatantly wrong?

Is the counter-argument placed in the appropriate paragraph? Does it flow with the essay?

What is the best part of the essay? Why?

What is the weakest part? Why?

What tone has the writer established in the essay (casual or formal? objective and dispassionate? conversational/colloquial)?

Does the conclusion reiterate the thesis in a way that is not redundant?

Does the Conclusion have a clarifying sentence? Does the conclusion have a call to action? Write down the call to action.

Does the essay end effectively?