They Say I Say - Chapter 3 Flashcards

Integrating Quotations

• Writing arguments effectively requires incorporating the viewpoints of others into your text.
• Quoting exact words from sources enhances the credibility of the argument and demonstrates respect for the original ideas.
• To maintain fair representation, direct quotations ensure an accurate portrayal of another's argument.

Quotations as Evidence

• Quotations serve as "proof of evidence," reinforcing claims within your writing.
• Common pitfalls when quoting include quoting too little, quoting excessively, and assuming quotations self-explain.

Insufficient Quoting

• Authors may quote too minimally due to a reluctance to review the original text or an overconfidence in their recall of ideas.
• Overquoting can stem from a lack of confidence in one's own commentary capability, leading to insufficient personal insights.

Context and Integration

• Quotations that are out of context can mislead readers; they should be integrated smoothly into your narrative.
• Smart selection of relevant quotations strengthens your arguments when surrounded by contextual framing.

Presentation of Quotations

• The process of presenting quotations involves connecting them to your own commentary.
• Engagement with both quotes and your argument fosters a dynamic writing process, often requiring back-and-forth refinement.

Importance of Clarity

• It’s essential to clarify the relevance and meaning of quotations for your audience, as selection alone does not suffice.
• Quotations lacking proper frames are termed "dangling," leading to confusion about their significance.

Framing Techniques

• "Hit-and-run" quotations are likened to accidents where the source is cited without responsibility for its integration.
• The "quotation sandwich" technique involves introducing a quotation (top slice of bread) and subsequently explaining its significance (bottom slice of bread).

Introduction Templates

• Templates for introducing quotations include phrases like "X states..." or "According to X,..." which set a clear context.
• Following each major quotation with an explanation is crucial for understanding.

Language and Complexity

• When interpreting quotations, language should reflect the essence of the quoted material accurately.
• Complex quotations, laden with jargon or detailed information, require more thorough explanations to aid reader comprehension.

Common Mistakes in Introducing Quotations

• Statements like "Orwell asserts an idea that..." lack clarity and should be avoided in favor of more precise introductions.