Wrapping up Lit Reviews

Monday, 3/12

General Tips

When you first introduce an author, try to state first and last name, as well as some background info and title of their work.

Example:

Elizabeth Wardle, Associate Professor at the University of Central Florida, in her 2008 article “Mutt Genres and FYC,” explains…

General Tips

When you state that an author has conducted a study, give some background on that study.

Example:

Deborah Brandt conducted a study to trace how literacy sponsorship played a role in students’ perception of literacy. In her findings, she explains,”…..”

General Tips

After you have completed a section, read over what you have written. When you have thoughts or ideas regarding the claims made by your authors, include them.

Look into the words chosen by the authors of your sources. Explain what you think they may be implying.

Analyze the claims and methodologies. Do you think the conclusions stated are valid? Why or why not?

Writing your introduction

Establish your territory

What research has been conducted?

Provide an overview of your headings

Use parts from the intro to your annotated bib

Intro Example

The purpose and reasons for the FCAT Writes test have been widely debated. Some sources support the implementation of the FCAT Writes, explaining that the exam provides a way for educators to assess student writing (Brown; Swales). Other sources negate the benefits of the FCAT Writes Test by explaining that students have different writing processes, and that this exam may not accurately reflect the writing abilities of students (Johnson; Smith). By analyzing these sources, I will study the perception of the FCAT Writes by college students.

General Tips

Think about the order of your headings

Go from more general to more specific

Example:

Defining the FCAT

Positive Perceptions of the FCAT

College Preparation as a Positive Perception of the FCAT

Structure of your Lit Review

Introduction (Bold)

Paragraph(s)

Heading(s) (Bold)

Paragraph(s)

Conclusion (Bold)---We will work on this on Wednesday

Tips

Your lit review is the beginning of your research paper

Think about how all of these sections introduce your topic

Start thinking about what you want to do with your project: Who do you want to talk to? Do you want to survey? Interview? Observe?

On Wednesday, bring a copy of your lit review for peer review. Final draft due Friday.