Definition
The purpose of this essay is
to improve editing skills by rewriting a previously written essay. Effective editing is a step-by-step
process. One key is to re-read a paper
multiple times, looking for only one kind of error at a time.
Editing Plan
As you re-read your paper,
look for any errors in the following areas:
· Complete
sentences: Each sentence should have a subject, verb,
and a complete thought. Look for
incomplete and run-on/comma splice sentences.
· Parallel
Constructions: Faulty parallel construction leads to unclear
and awkward sentences.
· There
are/is/was/will be, etc.: Any sentences with this type of construction
must be changed.
· Punctuation: Pay close
attention to commas and ending punctuation.
· Agreement: Make sure all
subjects and verbs agree; also look for noun/pronoun agreement.
· Spelling: With the
spell check function for most word processing software, this is not as much of
a problem as it used to be. However,
your computer will not know if you’ve put the wrong word in, or it may
autocorrect and change the word from the one you intended.
· Paragraph
construction: Each paragraph must have a main idea. Make sure that all of the thoughts expressed
in the paragraph are part of that main idea.
Do any sentences need to be moved to another paragraph? Does the paragraph need to be divided into
smaller paragraphs?
· Organization: Is the overall
organization of the paper logical? Does
each point lead to the next? Should it
be rearranged?
· Content: The essay
should give sufficient information to support your thesis. Have you included
enough background information? Have you
satisfactorily covered the material? As
you re-read, look for ways to expand your essay. Also, note any information that seems
unnecessary.
Thesis Development
Your essay should have a
clearly defined thesis that you explain and support. Sometimes a thesis is simple and
straightforward; sometimes they are more complex. Your reader should never be confused as to
your topic and your decided opinion or stand on that topic.
Essay Guidelines
Due date: May 5
Essay
length: 500 – 700 words (between 2 and 4
pages)
Additional
work: Thesis statement and a paragraph
about what you’re learned as a writer.
Final draft
format:
Typed (if this is
not possible, please let me know)
1 inch margins
Name and date on
the upper right hand corner
Number the pages
on the lower right hand corner
Title centered
above the text of the essay
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