Dahl arguments and Constitution

Paper Checklist: Include as last page of essay, do NOT check “yes” to things you didn’t do.

□ Double spaced, pages numbered, 1200-1500 words, word count next to name.

□ At least THREE citations (with page number) per page on average, in-line, with author and page number, e.g. (Smith 215) or (Hayek 121), not (pg. 3) or (Manifesto, pg. 313). Quotes included due to importance of specific language as evidence to support your argument.

□ Argument based directly on assigned material, not class notes/lectures, outside readings, etc.

□ Introduction based on clear thesis statement making specific argument ABOUT the text, not just a book report repeating what the author says. Contains no extraneous information, e.g. “Marx was a 19th century German Jewish philosopher whose works have been influential

on the modern world”, etc. but gets directly to what you are trying to prove and how.

□ Main body of paper stays on topic with a clear structure, each paragraph building on one before with logical transitions. Every sentence is justified as providing evidence of your

thesis, containing analysis, critique, exposition, etc. Free of personal opinion, unrelated material/anecdotes, sentence fragments, incoherent phrasing, other grammatical issues. All

text original, not lifted from Wikipedia, web sites, book introductions, etc.

□ Well-defined conclusion, showing how material you presented proved the introductory thesis, not end abruptly, present personal opinions, or talk about broad and unrelated ideas.

□ Undergone outline, drafting, etc. proofread, ideally out loud, by yourself and at least one other person, if necessary including a visit to the Learning Assistance Center (HSS 348).

Professor Response

□ Repeats text, not provide own argument/analysis or connect to broader overarching ideas

□ Unfocused mix of material, lacks consistent theme or sustained argument, no central thesis

□ Insufficient direct material for arguments, lacks evidence, relies on limited amount of text

□ Attempts to cover too much material, need to narrow to specific question/argument/critique

□ Confusing structure, unconnected paragraphs, difficult to follow, content otherwise unclear

Comments: ___________________________________________________

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