The writing assignments comprise 25% of your final grade. The ultimate goal of the writing exercises is developing students’ appreciation for critical, objective analysis of a relevant topic. Your writing grade revolves around three basic criteria. Each of the following includes useful advice toward improving your writing for these particular type of assignments.
1. Following instructions:
● Following directions is an important aspect of your college success. Read the syllabus. Use the proper format: Times New Roman #12 font, 1” margins, double-spacing, etc.
● Provide the correct number of pages; anything less suggests minimal effort. Going significantly over the maximum number of pages is not necessarily bad, but unnecessary. Editing your paper to the required length is part of your writing skill; trim out the padding and provide the most useful information.
● Provide the correct number of references (on the bibliography page) in the proper format. Formats for the various types of references are included at the end of this guide.
2. Quality of your syntax (grammar, s
entence structure, organization):
● Proof-Read, Proof-Read, Proof-Read. Do your sentences make sense? Are they complete sentences? Are they grammatically correct? Are they clearly stated?
● Use punctuation effectively. For example, if it sounds natural to pause when phrasing your sentence, use a comma. This “flow” in the narrative aids in clarity for the reader.
● Use logic in the organization of your narrative. Start at the beginning of an idea to explain it clearly to the reader. Assume the reader does not know about the topic; bring them along progressively so that they understand what you have learned. Use paragraphs to break up the passages so that the reader can follow your narrative more clearly.
● Don’t drift off into attempts at rhetorical grandiloquence. Get to the points and focus on the most useful analysis you have learned about the topic.
● Do not cut and paste passages from your sources. Paraphrase what you have learned in your own words.
● Proof-Read more. (Out loud)
3. Quality of the information, sources, and presentation of your narrative: