Evaluation Criteria for Reviewing Essays:

1. Must follow basic essay structure, as follows:
A. Introduction
1) Thesis statement,
2) Plan for the paper,
3) Background for the thesis
B. Argument supporting the thesis
C. Assessment of Objections
D. Conclusion

2. Do not begin with a cliché or irrelevant opening statement

3. Thesis must be:
A. Stated early in the paper
B. Explicit
C. Substantial and Controversial (not obvious)
D. In agreement with conclusions stated at the end of the essay.

4. Argument presentation:
A. Premises must be true and logically imply the conclusion
(When evaluating the essay, identify the conclusion first, then the premises)
B. Key terms and arguments must be sufficiently defined/identified
C. Is the argument well-structured?

5. Argument Defense:
A. Substantial objections must be raised
B. Objections to the possible criticisms are charitable
C. Objections must clearly strengthen or weaken the initial position

6. Texts:
A. Should be properly introduced
B. Should be relevant to the issue
C. Internal citations and bibliographies, if necessary, should be included