Essay 5, RHW 101, E. Johnson, Fall 2006

Essay 5 is a revision of one of your first three essays. You may choose which one to revise, as long as it is not an "A" paper. The revision must be a substantial one, going well beyond correcting errors I have marked on the graded paper. In general, I will expect you to evaluate and revise for the following components.

Thesis: You must write a new thesis sentence, one that incorporates all of the main ideas of the finished paper.

Organization: Choose the best, most logical flow of ideas in re‑organizing the paper. Make substantial deletions of ideas that are marginal to the topic or repetitive, and add ideas that develop the topic further.

Argument: Frame the argument in a “they say, I say” way. That is, sum up the main points of view on the issue (for or against your view), but also offer your own response to the information and arguments you’ve read. Anticipate counter-arguments and respond appropriately.

Evidence in support of your argument: Make the paper more specific and detailed, less abstract. Use quotations from the authors we have read. Be sure the material you choose is worth quoting. Summaries and paraphrase are ways of explaining the information.

Introduction and conclusion: Rework where necessary. Be sure to include sufficient background information (intro), and to let the reader know why it matters (conclusion).

Topic and style: Make the paper responsive to the intended audience. Revise as necessary to respond to the writing problem.

Language: Edit the paper carefully so it conforms to the rules of Standard Written English. Use transition words and pointing words correctly to help link your ideas together. Delete any unnecessary, meaningless phrases. Be sure your sentences clearly say what you mean for them to say.

You must visit the writing center for help with your revision.

If you have any questions about my comments on the earlier version of the paper, please come to see me. The essay should show me that you have acquired writing skills that you didn't have/ use when you wrote the previous version of the essay.

You MUST turn in new invention notes, as well as the graded copy of the earlier version of the essay.

Final paper due Wednesday, Dec. 6, by 11 am in my mailbox in Evans 225 or campus post office box 350.

Final exam, Due by 10 am on Friday, December 8.

You must complete this assignment to pass the class.

Turn in your graded essays in a blue Berry composition folder. You will only have 3 essays in the folder, since I will have both versions of the essay you are revising. I will add these to the folder when I have graded them. Grades will be posted on Viking Web.

Happy Holidays!