Writing Workshop – Proposal Essay Writer: ______________________
Reader: ______________________
Directions: Work in small groups of three and read one group member’s paper. After you have read the paper all the way through, respond to the following questions on this sheet. You may also respond in the paper itself. Repeat the process with the other group member’s paper. By the end, each writer should receive two sheets of commentary. You must have a draft of your paper to participate in this workshop.
What is the THESIS statement? Discuss and suggest improvements.
What is the PROPOSAL mini thesis statement? Is it clear? How can it be improved?
List the elements of the solution, and the supporting evidence for each. (This may be in different sections of the paper.)
What is the COUNTER mini thesis statement? Does the writer anticipate objections and counter-arguments? If so, write them down in this space. If not, discuss and write down suggestions.
What is the essay’s biggest strength? [presents the subject, asserts an overall judgment, gives reasons and support, anticipates objections and alternative judgments] Be specific – point to an example in the paper.
What questions has the writer not answered for you? Are there sections that are unclear, confusing, or vague?
Does the writer follow the Proposal Outline? Does the paper have a beginning, middle and end? Write down some suggestions for improving the structure of the paper.
Identify any major proofreading problem areas by underlining or highlighting them on the paper. List a couple of recurring problems for the writer here. Do not spend an inordinate amount of time on grammar/mechanics.