Summary Writing

How to Write An Effective Summary Writing a summary of a text can be difficult, especially if you do not understand a text. Anytime you read, you should paraphrase a text to better understand it. Once you understand it, you should summarize. When you write a summary, you should keep the following in mind Comprehension of Text Accuracy and Relevancy Organization Restatement of Ideas in Writer’s Own Words Language and Conventions

Comprehension of Text The summary makes effective use of available resources and demonstrates a thorough and complete understanding of the text. Necessary aspects Around ten major/key plot points Theme statement

Accuracy and Relevancy Summary includes all statements that are accurate, related only to the text, and reflects the writer’s objectivity. Necessary aspects All statements are accurate and related to text. Personal insights and opinions are omitted.

Organization The summary effectively addresses events in the beginning, middle, and end of the text, and includes all important details in logical order. Necessary aspects: Opening statement includes the author and title. Ideas are presented in logical order. A connection is made between the ideas

Organization (cont.) Your summary should have the following structure: Topic sentence– title, author, and main idea of the text Major plot points in logical order Concluding sentence(s) – theme statement (the message about life the author tells by telling the story)

RESTATEMENT OF IDEAS IN WRITER’S OWN WORDS The summary effectively restates the plot and significant details. Necessary aspects: Ideas are restated in the writer’s own words (no direct quotations from the text) Insignificant details are omitted.

Language and Conventions The summary demonstrates an effective command of standard English, effectively employs language and tone appropriate to the audience and purpose, and effectively employs sentence variations. Necessary aspects: Summary has few to no errors in spelling, punctuation, and capitalization. Sentences vary in structure and length to increase fluency.

Tips for Success Re-read your writing! Ask yourself the following questions: Can someone who has never read the text have an idea of what it is about? Am I being objective? Does it make sense structurally and linguistically?

”The Highwayman” Summary Now that you know how to write a summary, complete the organizer for “The Highwayman” summary. In the boxes, list items. DO NOT use complete sentences. If you have questions, raise your hand. Whatever you do not finish, you must complete for homework.