Peer response 4

You should definitely know the peer response drill by now: the key is that you be tactfully critical so that you will help your classmate improve his or her paper.

Your comments and suggestions are not limited to the items below.  You should read the paper through once completely, then consider concentrate on these important areas:
 

Overall focus of the essay—look for places where the paper might stray from the stated purpose or thesis established in the introduction.

Effectiveness of the introduction—point out weaknesses and make specific suggestions for improving development and/or transitions.

Effectiveness of the thesis statement or statement of purpose.

General effectiveness of body paragraphs—point out weaknesses and make very specific suggestions regarding strong topic sentences, unity (one main point per paragraph), and development.

If the topic supports argument—i.e. if the thesis makes a point some might disagree with—are opposing views expressed?  Fairly and fully?  Explain how the opposing views might be improved.

Any of the author's main points that are not convincingly explained?

Any places where you don't understand exactly what the author is trying to say?

Effectiveness of quotations: are the quotes used well?  Do they offer significant support for the author's claims, or do any seem simply "thrown in" to meet the assignment requirements?

Do any of the quotes need more comment or explanation?  Which ones, and why?

Smoothness in introduction and incorporation of quotes.

Proper documentation of quotes.

Suggestions for other helpful quotes from the novel?

Other significant points of evidence from the novel that might help with any of the different primary points?

Effectiveness of conclusion—make very specific suggestions.

Grammar and word choice—special attention to Golden Rules and Nuggets.

Quotes and documentation details and "simple stuff"

You might conclude by giving the paper a grade—explain precisely why you would give it the grade you think it deserves.