Clearly identify the author’s thesis
Have evidence to support your analysis of the author’s thesis
Do not use direct quotes. Paraphrase the reading.
Do not use outside sources. You need to react and analyze the assigned sources. Not google things. The American YAWP and the sources contain all the information you need to analyze these sources.
Ideas for the organization of the paper:
Introduction. Open with a general description of the topic and/or problem addressed by the work in question. Think, if possible, of a hook to draw your readers in.
Summary of argument. Your review should, as concisely as possible, summarize the article’s argument. What, ultimately, is this article’s reason for being? If there is an identifiable thesis statement, you may consider quoting it directly (using your own words).
Summary of contents. A reasonably thorough indication of the research methods used (if applicable) and of the range of substantive material covered in the article should be included.
Strength. Identify one particular area in which you think the article does well. This should, ideally, be its single greatest strength as an academic work.
Weakness. Identify one particular area in which you think the article could be improved. While this weakness might be related to something you actually believe to be incorrect, it is more likely to be something that the author omitted, or neglected to address in sufficient detail.
Conclusion. End your review with a concluding statement summarizing your opinion of the article
