English 102/jroth

PEER EDITING How-To’s

Peer editing is critically reading and offering suggestions to improve another’s rough draft. The goal is always to help the writer improve the draft so that the next revision is effective. In this case, being “critical” does not mean being negative. Instead it means to constructively identify any areas that need improvement as well as note areas that are strong. Peer editing properly can not only help the writer improve his or her rough draft, but also teach the peer editor to become a better writer.

Here is a checklist for peers to use when editing another’s essay:

____1. First, check to see if the rough draft meets the requirements of the assignment. Have the specific directions been followed?

____2. Would the introductory paragraph lead a typical reader to want to read more? Does the introduction create interest/importance in what’s to follow?

____3. Is there a clearly identifiable thesis sentence that states the idea/opinion the essay will develop and support?

____4. Do the body paragraphs have balance? Is each of the body paragraphs unified and coherent? (Are there any off-topic or misplaced details?)

____5. Does the conclusion effectively close the essay? If appropriate to the essay, does conclusion offer specific recommendations/suggestions?

____6. Do the sentences flow smoothly or do any need rewording? Do the paragraphs have clear transitions so that they flow smoothly from one to another?

____7. Does the rough draft use any clichés (overused expressions)? Is the word choice throughout the draft effective and engaging?

____8. Are there any obvious grammar and usage mistakes? (Commonly-Confused Words errors? Pronoun Agreement errors? Subject-Verb Agreement errors?)

____9. Does the draft include any words and ideas borrowed from other authors? If so, are those words and ideas handled properly? (Does the rough draft conform exactly to MLA/APA guidelines?) Does the draft use “signal phrases” to comfortably blend in the borrowed words and ideas?

____10.What are the rough draft’s strengths?

____11.Regarding the whole experience, did you critique the other writer’s rough draft in the same way you would want your rough draft critiqued? Did you share your suggestions in the same way you would like to receive suggestions? (The key is to think about how you want to be treated and do the same for your peer.)