Each essay is made up of multiple parts. In order to have a strong essay each part must be logical and effective. In many cases essays will be written with a strong thesis, but the rest of the paper will be lacking; making the paper ineffective. An essay is only as strong as its weakest point.
One of the most important steps for creating a strong essay is to have others review it. By completing a peer review you will be able to create a better thesis statement and supporting arguments.
Using a checklist to complete your review will allow you to rate each of the parts in the paper according to their strength. There are many different peer review checklists, but the one below should be helpful for your assignment.
- Is the thesis clear?
- Does the author use his or her own ideas in the thesis and argument?
- Is the significance of the problem in the paper explained? Is the significance compelling?
- Are the ideas developed logically and thoroughly?
- Does the author use ethos effectively?
- Does the author use pathos effectively?
- Are different viewpoints acknowledged?
- Are objections effectively handled?
- Does the author give adequate explanations about sources used?
- Are the sources well-integrated into the paper, or do they seem to be added in just for the sake of adding sources?
- Is the word choice specific, concrete and interesting?
- Are the sentences clear?
- Is the overall organization of the argument effective?
- Are the transitions between paragraphs smooth?
- Are there any grammatical errors?
Sources
Based on the rubric found at: Grading Rubric Template (Word)
