How to Write a Critical Analysis

How to Write a Critical Analysis ACSC 115 Writing a Critical Analysis • Introduce what you are analyzing with all pertinent information about the work (do not forget the title!) and the author. You may want to begin with a brief summary. • It can be helpful to insert somewhere early on in your analysis (probably in the introduction) a clear and explicit statement of the author’s argument. For example, “The author argues…” • In the following sentences of your introduction hit all the main points. Then, in subsequent paragraphs, describe each of the author’s main supporting points/evidence as topic sentences and evaluate them. • Support your evaluation with detailed evidence from the text. Do not forget to use proper citation for quotes and paraphrases. • Keep in mind: A critical analysis is NOT from a summary. It will include a brief summary in the introduction, but should go beyond this. You are providing an informed critique of the material. • Remember that the purpose of a critical analysis is to evaluate. What about this text is worthwhile, useful, important, significant, valid, or truthful? Introduction o Author’s name and poem title worked in naturally. o Brief introduction to the text, the author, and/or the historical time period. o THESIS STATEMENT is obvious, clearly written, and is the focus of the entire essay. Body Paragraphs o The topic of each paragraph is in the topic sentence. o Quotes are used as support in each paragraph. They are worked in naturally, and are properly cited using parenthetical citations. (Use They Say, I Say) o Each quote is explained. The explanation is tied back to the topic of the paragraph and the thesis of the essay. Conclusion o Restates thesis, and ties together body paragraphs. o Leaves the reader with something to ponder. Other questions to consider • Does the subject matter have contemporary relevance? • Is there a controversy surrounding the text? • What are the strengths and weaknesses of the choice of topic, the methodology, the evidence, and the author’s conclusions? Essay 2 Critical Analysis Essay Prompt Write a critical analysis. Choose a short story to read. You will choose which you would like to read and write about. Audience • Your classmates, Writing Center tutors, and me. • Assume that your reader will not have significant, detailed knowledge of the text you are writing about. Format and Length • MLA • Double spaced • 2 pages • Times New Roman • 12 point Due dates • Draft 1 – February1 o Introduce and explain quotations o Writing Center tutors will be in class to direct peer review o Bring 5 copies of your paper to class • Draft 2 – February 8 Writing Center • You must meet with a tutor at the Writing Center Evaluation • Based on the 6+1 Trait® Writing Model of Instruction & Assessment (See attached rubric.) o provides a common language for teachers and students to communicate about the characteristics of writing and establishes a clear vision of what good writing looks like. *Be sure to use your writing handbook as necessary to follow MLA documentation.