For each article we read, please summarize in writing the following topics:

1. Thesis--what is the author's main point in this article? A one-sentence statement is best; write no more than three under any conditions.

2. Theoretical literature engaged:
What theoretical work is the author using to support his/her argument?
What theoretical work is the author criticizing by making this argument?

3. Topical and or areal literature engaged:
What topical literature provides background and support?
What topical/area literature is being criticized?

4. Audience:
Who is supposed to be reading this/impressed by it?

5. Sources:
Where is the author getting information?
How does the author evaluate the information, particularly if information from one source contradicts or conflicts with that in another?
Remember that sources are not just books. There are archives, letters, newspapers, experiments, personal observations, interviews, and many other sources of information.

6. Argument:
How does the paper proceed? What is the order of topics, the logic of the presentation of the author's case?

7. Your evaluation:
Does the author prove his/her point?
What are the strong and weak points in the argument?

8. Significance:
How do you think the theoretical and the topical/area literatures engaged here are likely to be changed by the publication of this article?

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Learning about academic writing
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