Classical Peer Review Instructions

A Peer Review of the Classical Argument

Instructions for the reviewers--

Answer the questions below in a separate document that you will then upload to the Assignment area for Classical Argument for your assigned peer reviews.  Remember that the reviews are grades.  If you do not submit a rough draft, you will not automatically be assigned the two reviews.  If you cannot complete your rough draft, you may request drafts to review for partial credit.  Extra reviews can be assigned for extra credit when the initial reviews are completed.

Reviews should be submitted within two days of the rough drafts.

1. Read for a First Impression.

2. Does the introduction clearly state the parameters?

3. Consider Whether the Background Is Described Adequately.

4. Assess Whether a Convincing Argument Is Advanced in Support of the Proposed Solution. Pay special attention to the types of support and their documentation

5. Evaluate How Well the Writer Anticipates Readers’ Objections and Questions. Which accommodations and refutations seem most convincing? Which seem least convincing? Are there other objections or reservations that the writer should acknowledge?

6. Does the argument effectively target the audience, the American Public?

7. Consider the Effectiveness of the Organization. Evaluate the overall plan of the proposal, perhaps by outlining it briefly. Would any parts be more effectively placed earlier or later in the essay?
• Look at the beginning. Is it engaging? If not, how might it be revised to capture readers’ attention? Does it adequately forecast the main ideas and the plan of the proposal? Suggest other ways the writer might begin.
• Apply the Toulmin model to the essay's main argument.

Does the essay round off the argument clearly and with authority?

8. Give the Writer Your Final Thoughts. What is the draft’s strongest part? What part is most in need of further work?