Mini Assignment 1 Template

Title of the source for the Critique Essay

Reverse Outline
Write a reverse outline of the source you have chosen for the Critique Essay. If a main idea is developed across two or more
short paragraphs, note a paragraph range as needed (e.g., paras 3-5).

para 1:

para 2:

para 3:

Etc.

Argument Breakdown
Break down the argument of the source.

Issue:

Thesis:

Reasons and Evidence:

Brief Summary
Write a brief summary where you identify the source and the main message.
Full Summary
Write a full summary in the form of a paragraph of about 100 words.

Preparing to write your evaluation of the source:

Try answering the following questions:

1. Is the source/author trustworthy?
2. Is the argument logical and reasonable? Is it supported with enough credible and
convincing evidence?
3. What are the problems, flaws, or gaps in the argument? Even if you think it's
basically strong, why might some reasonable
people disagree with the author?
4. If you can't find "flaws," what new questions and areas for development does the
argument raise?
5. What makes the idea important and relevant? Why should the topic matter to other
people today?