ES 390: Bioregionalism

READING RESPONSE

This assignment involves two things: an understanding of the views and values in the reading, and your critical evaluation to what is said. The assumption is that the essay is both (1) sophisticated and significant and at the same time (2) limited and problematic. Your response should show both aspects, and it should ultimately take a stand, making clear to the reader what your views are in relation to the author’s.

 

The response should be more than one page but not more than two (going a little over is OK). It should be typed, double-spaced, one inch margins, Times New Roman 12 point. At the top put your name, date, and the author and title of the reading. Do not have a separate title page or a bibliography.

 

The reading response should show the following:

 

Understanding of and real insight into
>> the views discussed
>> the reasons or basis for these views
>> the philosophical, social, and personal implications of those views
>> the significance of these views to bioregionalism

 

Critical evaluation of those views, showing
>> a sense of the power and importance of those views
>> a sense of the limits and problems in those view
>> your evaluation of the author’s views, with a clear sense of why (reasoning, evidence, fundamental values) you take the stand you do.

 

Effective writing:
>> proper grammar and spelling
>> clarity
>> efficiency
>> vigor
>> a combination of intellectual analysis and personal voice

 

What I look for

  • Is the presentation of basic ideas accurate?
  • Is the summary efficient, enabling a discussion of many ideas?
  • Is the critical evaluation efficient, covering several problems and limitations?
  • Is the evaluation valid and cogent, suggesting sound basis and considering the viewpoint of who is critiqued?
  • Does the evaluation express your personal stance, rather than summarize views or critiques of others?
  • Does the response show serious and vigorous thought?
  • Is the writing clear and correct?

 

 

 

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Last updated: August 19, 2007