Writing the Evaluation Essay Understanding Critical Analysis Chapter 7 p. 102
Purpose for this essay You will make a claim that the item you choose to evaluate is the best, the most, perfect choice in its class or category Example: jeans, mp3 players, TV comedy, or any other consumer item
Evaluation=Argument In this essay you will judge an item and make a recommendation to your audience Try to convince them to use the product that you feel is best
Evaluation VS. Opinion Your purpose in this essay will be to make a value judgment and support that value judgment with clear standards and specific evidence. Goal in this essay is not only to express your viewpoint about a product, but persuade your audience to accept your judgment.
Topic Selection Consumer products Cosmetics Types of foods Tech toys Cell phones Mp3 players Computers Video gaming systems Specific games Clothing Brands Automobiles--in a specific class (pick-ups, sports cars, alternative fuels)
Developing Sub Points Write a compare/contrast of two items in the same class or category Presidential candidates Ford pick-up VS. Chevy Show the similarities/differences, strength/weaknesses Do an analysis of one item: why the Ford F150 is your choice after reviewing all other pick-ups in the same class
Develop Criteria=Standards Standards that every pick-up you look at must meet: Gas mileage Towing ability Design Safety price
Organizing the Outline: Prewriting (required) Create a Criteria log to help organize your and plan the essay List your criteria Gather your evidence Make your judgment about each criteria
Conclusion Compare/Contrast Definition of Criteria Description of Subject Introduction Page 103 This is one possible, there are 2 others in the book. Strengths and Weaknesses of Criteria
Assignment-Evaluation You pick a topic You MUST have 3 outside sources for this paper and a one quote per body paragraph=no grade without it! Work Cited Page (ABC Order) TNR/Ariel/Dble Spce/12 font 1,500-2,000 words (2-3pages) Due on Wednesday 3/3/13 Worth 140 points