Critique and Reaction Papers: Key Differences

• Argumentative papers consist of reviews, reactions, and critiques.
• Group 6 prepared the following information.

What is Argumentative Writing?

• Argumentative writing is a genre focused on discussing a topic, gathering information, and supporting claims with evidence.
• The main goal is to persuade the audience to accept a specific viewpoint, structured in a standard format for clarity.

Basic Types of Argumentative Texts

• Argumentative writing can be presented in simple forms.
• Editorials are written by members of a newspaper's editorial board, known as insiders.
• Editorials represent the official stance of the newspaper on various issues.
• Opposite editorials are authored by outsiders commissioned by a newspaper company.
• Opposite editorials are typically found on pages opposite the editorial section and offer contrasting viewpoints.
• Letters to the Editor are submitted by readers who are expressing their opinions on previously published articles.
• Letters to the Editor allow public engagement and discourse on various topics.
• Advertisements are paid announcements that are created to persuade consumers into buying a product.

Structure of an Argumentative Text

• The title captures the reader's attention and piques their interest.
• The title sets the tone for the text and indicates the subject matter.
• The introduction provides context for the discussion.
• The introduction includes the thesis statement that serves as the main idea of the essay.
• The introduction presents a compelling opening statement to engage readers.
• The body presents detailed information and arguments that support the thesis statement.
• The conclusion summarizes the key points discussed throughout the text.
• The conclusion reinforces the main message and encourages readers to reflect/take action.

Elements of Argumentation

• A proponent refers to an individual that makes the claim and advocates for a particular position or stance.

Claim/Argument and its Types

• A claim of fact is an argument presented based on verifiable data, like figures and statistics.
• A claim of policy includes arguments that either propose or challenge existing rules.
• A claim of value includes claims that are based solely on personal opinions.
• Exposure to violent media is a risk factor for violent behaviors are examples of the Claim of Fact.
• Increased investment in solar power will benefit national security by reducing dependence on fossil fuels is an example of the Claim of Policy.
• The basic keys to success are perseverance and discipline is the Claim of Value.
• A counterclaim/counterargument includes an argument made to contradict or oppose an main claim/thesis presented by the writer.
• Refutation is a response to an opposing argument.
• Refutation presents evidence and reasoning that challenges the validity of the opposing viewpoint.

Importance of Expressions of Facts and Opinions

• Expressions of facts and opinions assists readers in separating facts from opinions in an argumentative text.
• According to and it was stated are examples of expressions for facts.
• As far as my understanding is concerned and I believe are examples of expressions for opinions.

Academic Forms of Argumentative Writing

• A reaction paper is a formal writing assignment for analyzing a prompt.
• Reaction papers enhances one's critical thinking skills.
• Reaction papers require thoughtful reading, research, and writing.
• Reaction papers address counterclaims and provide refutations to strengthen the argument.
• Reaction papers follow a clear structure which is Introduction, Body, and Conclusion (IBC).

Reviewing the Steps in Writing a Reaction Paper

• It is important to fully understand the material before writing a reaction paper.
• It is important to carefully analyze every detail and challenge yourself by answering questions to deepen your understanding.
• Take detailed notes on the material to capture your thoughts and insights.
• Jot down emerging ideas while reading, without focusing on perfect wording.
• This brainstorming helps gather potential points for your paper.
• It is important to organize generated ideas into a cohesive thesis statement with supporting details to prepare for the first draft of your reaction paper.
• Structure your reaction paper by outlining key sections to ensure clarity and coherence in presenting your thoughts.
• Make sure that each comment references specific sections of the material to enhance the paper's formality, objectivity, and credibility.
• Make sure that your final draft adheres to the specified format, including title, introduction, body, and conclusion.
• A review is a critical analysis of a work, evaluating its content, quality, and significance.
• Reviews are written by scholars to provide informed perspectives on material, like books, articles, and films.
• The main goal of reviews are to inform readers about a work's merit and relevance, aiding their understanding
• Review may be descriptive in nature.
• Summarizing the work and evaluating its value, helps readers assess its relevance to their studies or interests.

Types of Review: Film Review

• View the film more than once, analyze details and catch hidden easter eggs missed in one view.
• Express general opinions about the film and be supported by specific examples to justify claims and maintain objectivity.
• Decide your style of writing based on your readership profile.
• Conduct audience analysis to determine your target readers and choose appropriate tone and vocabulary for effective communication.
• It is important to avoid spoilers because readers may seek insights on whether the movie is worth watching rather than simply agreeing with your opinion.
• Judge the story based on its different elements.
• Analyze its elements and narrative structure in relation to its genre, noting what it includes, lacks, or brings new to its viewers.
• Rate the actors.
• It is important to discuss how actors brought their characters to life and suggest alternatives for any lacking portrayals.
• Rate the technical elements.
• Discuss the film's technical elements, such as themes, editing, lighting, symbolism, and musical scoring.

Types of Review: Book Review

• Make sure to mention the title of the book.
• Make sure to include the author's name.
• Provide a personal quality rating on a scale of 0 to 5.
• 0 = Bad
• 5 = Great
• Break up the review into the following sub parts.
• Provide a concise overview of the book's plot without revealing too much detail
• Enticing readers to explore further.
• Consider the author's background and historical events that influence the book's themes and characters.
• Analyze the author's tone, language, and narrative techniques.
• Share personal reflections and insights on the book's impact and effectiveness.

Types of Review: Paper/Article Review

• Insert the title of the article being reviewed.
• Summarize the rationale behind the review.
• Highlight the importance of the topic being reviewed.
• Provide an outline of the review to guide readers on what to expect.
• Introduce the article/paper being reviewed.
• Discuss the significance of the topic in the broader academic context.
• Present the main points that will be covered in the review.
• Thoroughly discuss each point outlined in the introduction.
• Explain each point briefly.
• Support claims with reliable sources and evidence.
• Use clear headings/subheadings for organization if necessary.
• Summarize the key aspects of the review.
• Reiterate the importance and purpose of the article reviewed.
• Highlight the main points discussed.
• Discuss the implications of the review for the field of study.
• The deep understanding of a topic like film, art, or academic text is essential for critique writing.
• Critique papers are often confused with reaction papers.
• Similarities between critiques and reaction paper is that they both involve expressing opinions on a topic
• Reaction paper writers only need general knowledge. Critique writers should have expertise in their chosen material.

Types of Critiques: APA Critique Format

• APA Critique Format evaluates academic papers and focuses on publication in reputable journals.

Types of Critiques: Art Criticism

• Art Criticism evaluates works of art and involves subjective interpretation and analysis

Format of a Critique: APA Critique Format

• Present the title of the work and the writer's name in the introductory part.
• State the thesis statement to clarify the topic and issues.
• Summarize the material reviewed which include the purpose and objectives.
• Highlighting the key findings and the central message in the summary.
• Analyze and interpret the paper
• Provide the core of the critique, providing information to the summary in the introduction.
• Present writer’s judgment and perspective.
• Offer analysis that supports the interpretation.
• Reflect Writer’s personal impressions.
• Evaluates the worth of the material.
• Discuss implications for the community.
• Offer tangible suggestions for improvement.

Format of a Critique: Art Criticism

• Introduce the artwork with clear sensory details like sight, sound, taste, and feel.
• Highlight distinguishing elements that helps set the artwork apart from others.
• Aim for a comprehensive portrayal that allows readers to visualize the artwork.
• Offer a detailed examination of artwork's structure and components.
• Discuss the use of elements like color, form and technique.
• Explore how these elements contribute to the overall impact on the piece.
• Provide subjective impressions and emotional responses to the artwork.
• Encourage the readers to see the piece from your perspective.
• Summarize the key points from the description, analysis and interpretation.
• Present personal thoughts and feelings about the work in a thoughtful manner.
• Conclude with overall assessment of the artwork's significance and impact.

Understand the nuances between critique and reaction papers. A critique paper requires in-depth analysis and subject expertise, while a reaction paper involves expressing opinions. Knowing the structure and purpose are crucial for success.