Critical Analysis

Upload your critical analysis in .doc, .docx, or .pdf format.  All submissions will be run through the TurnItIn database, so be sure that all quotes and references to the text are properly cited so they are not flagged for plagiarism. 

Essentially, this is what I'm looking for: 2-3 pages, typed and double-spaced, 12-point font, in which you give a summary, no more, of a certain scholarly/theoretical text that we’ve studied. You will have the choice of writing about the Tomlinson, Reader, or Meredith texts.

The objective is just to have you concretize, via the exercise, your understanding of the particular topic brought up, and the ways in which it applies to the larger body of works that we're studying. 

This is not a term paper, so you don't need a thesis statement. Do provide references for direct quotations, of course (either MLA, APA, or Chicago Style), as well as a proper Works Cited page. The idea is to convince me that you've understood the main points of the text’s message. I provide you with a grading rubrique below--please go over it carefully. I’ve also uploaded to the “Files” tab the sample analysis from another class, on another topic; but you can see how this student analyzed the reading in a fairly successful way.

Grading rubric:

_____ / 20      Structure:  Evident, understandable, appropriate. Excellent transitions from point to point.  Paragraphs support solid topic sentences. 
 
_____ / 40      Use of textual evidence and key terms:  Primary source information used to buttress every point with at least one example.  Examples support statements and fit within paragraph.  Excellent integration of quoted material into sentences. Demonstrates an in-depth understanding of the ideas in the assigned reading and critically evaluates/responds to those ideas in an analytical, persuasive manner. May employ up to two scholarly sources (MLA or Chicago Style format). Has headings, in-text citations, and page numbers.   

_____ / 30      Analysis, logic, theory, and argumentation: Work displays critical thinking and avoids simplistic description or summary of information.  All ideas in the paper flow logically; the argument is identifiable, reasonable, and sound.  Creates appropriate college-level, academic tone.  Uses reading skills.

_____ / 10      Mechanics:  Sentence structure, grammar, and diction excellent; correct use of punctuation and citation style; minimal to no spelling errors.

_____ / 100     TOTAL POINTS EARNED