They Say I Say Chapter 1 Flashcards

Academic Writing Essentials

• Academic writing requires a clear thesis to engage in ongoing scholarly discussions.
• Introducing the broader conversation is crucial for providing context to your thesis.

Paragraph Structure

• In a short essay, the second paragraph is the latest point at which the conversation should be explained.
• Early engagement with existing discourse strengthens your argument.

Entering the Conversation

• Summarizing opposing viewpoints first is a recommended strategy to join the scholarly conversation.
• This approach aligns with Graff and Birkenstein's methodology for effective discourse.

Reader Engagement

• Periodically reminding readers about the ongoing conversation maintains clarity and relevance in academic writing.
• This technique helps anchor the reader's understanding throughout the piece.

Clarifying Positions

• Clearly stating your position alongside the counterarguments enhances the coherence of your argument.
• Presenting these elements together as a unit strengthens the argumentative structure.

Delaying Elaborations

• Detailed elaboration on ideas being responded to can be postponed, but it should not be neglected entirely.
• A balance between response and elaboration facilitates smooth narrative progression.

Writing Strategies

• Writers can support, oppose, amend, complicate, or qualify others’ arguments, offering a nuanced perspective.
• Using these strategies enriches the dialogue surrounding the primary subject.

Benefits of Summarizing

• Summarizing others’ viewpoints allows the writer to leverage existing frameworks, easing the burden of framing the issue.
• This method enhances clarity and supports the effectiveness of the argument.

Crafting Openings

• Begin essays by ensuring that the introduction illustrates the views being addressed, leading readers directly into the argument.
• Minimum steps should be employed to transition smoothly into discussion.

Good Writing Redefined

• The traditional notion of "good writing" as isolated logic is challenged; engaging with existing discourse is essential.
• Emphasizing dialogue with other writers encourages a more credible and dynamic narrative.

Re-presenting Ideas

• Return sentences that reintroduce motivating "they say" concepts help reinforce the context for readers.
• This technique ensures that ongoing conversations remain at the forefront of the discussion.

Central Theme

• Graff and Birkenstein emphasize the importance of starting with existing dialogues and keeping them visible throughout the writing process.
• Continuous engagement with others’ ideas fosters a richer academic discussion.