Taking a Position: Evaluation Essay

Assignment

Select a topic inviting evaluation—a job, computer program, film, television show, magazine, newspaper, restaurant, website, or other tangible object or event—that can be observed and closely/repeatedly analyzed. Your assignment is to write a four-page essay for a specific audience unfamiliar with your topic that does the following:

• Provides a context: describes the topic, defines unfamiliar terms.
• Identifies the generally accepted standards for this type of subject (standards that a reasonable person might hold).
• Shows them where you stand, gives your position/judgment/conclusion.
• Supports your judgment with thoughtful, specific reasons/evidence.
• Organizes a logical presentation of the elements above.

Format

Workshop drafts and final versions of essays should be word processed in a 12-point standard font (Times New Roman, Garamond, Arial, etc.); follow the manuscript format described in A Writer’s Reference. Aim for the length requirement; half a page over or under is acceptable. Please proofread carefully. If you use a source, you must include citations and a works cited list; please use MLA parenthetical documentation format for citing sources (see A Writer’s Reference). When essays are due, please put all drafts, notes, workshop comments, and your criteria sheet with your final version in a folder with pockets.

Things to Consider

• Is my topic tangible and observable?
• Have I established my purpose and specific audience?
• Have I crafted a clear thesis statement?
• Is my topic manageable? Have I defined the topic clearly for my audience?
• Have I used an identifiable introductory strategy?
• Have I organized my essay logically, with good topic sentences and transitions?
• Do I support my claims with specific evidence, based on appropriate standards?