1113 Unit 2 Peer Review Guide

CONTENT: 

1. Does the writer clearly focus analysis on a single primary text that presents a viewpoint on a specific social or political issue that differs from the writers’ own beliefs?
2. Does the writer AVOID persuasion and emotionally charged language throughout the essay (essay should never suggest that a stance is right or wrong)?
3. Is it clear that the writer has attempted to understand the values of/reasons for the other side’s perspective?
4. Does the writer employ a neutral tone (avoiding condescension or dismissal)?
5. Does the writer exhibit a meaningful engagement with lines of argument that differ from the writer’s by acknowledging the values, beliefs, and worldview that inform the author’s perspective? 
6. Does the writer demonstrate in-depth understanding of the rhetorical situation by acknowledging the various people/groups affected by the issue and connect the author’s stance to these people/groups?

RESEARCH:

7. Is it clear the writer has thoroughly researched the socio political issue and has a good understanding of its complexity?
8. Does the writer use sufficient and varied sources to explore the complexity of the issue and to better understand the values/worldview of the central text?  
9. Does the writer strategically choose sources that promote a fair and comprehensive understanding of the author’s point of view? 
10. Does the writer properly credit research/sources by correctly MLA formatted in-text citations?
11. Does the writer use sources in a way that demonstrates sincere engagement with a different point of view? 
12. Does the writer synthesize sources while keeping the central text voice/claims at the center of the essay? In other words, is it clear that your classmate is primarily analyzing a single text?

ORGANIZATION:

13. Does the essay have a clear thesis/line of inquiry that addresses the prompt requirements? 
14. Does the writer illustrate thoughtful choices based on the reader, making it easy to follow how the writer’s engagement with a primary text informs her or his discussion of values?
15. Does the writer transition smoothly from one idea to the next, drawing out connections for the readers? 

STYLE, GRAMMAR, MECHANICS: 

16. Does the writer use language and punctuation appropriate to the purpose of the essay?
17. Does the essay contain few to no grammatical errors?
18. Is the essay formatted and cited in MLA style, including Works Cited page?
19. Is the essay at least 1500-1750 words in length?