Dennis barron

1. Examines many of the following questions (others may be considered.):

· What’s the author’s thesis (claim)? Is it logical?

· What’s the author’s purpose in writing this essay?

· How effective does the author present the claim and support that claim?

· Is the piece aimed at a particular audience? A neutral audience? Persons who are already sympathetic to the author’s point of view? A hostile audience?

· What’s the author’s tone, persona (voice)? Is it appropriate?

· What assumptions does the author make? Do I share them? If not, why not?

· Does the author ever confuse facts with beliefs or opinions?

· How convincing is the evidence?

· Are significant objections and counterevidence adequately discussed?

· To what extent has the author convinced me? Why? or Why not?