Summary

Summary/Response Essay

This is the most common type of writing assignment given in most college and graduate courses. Sometimes only the summary is required, but I like to get the response, too, to see how my students react to the readings.

Each instructor will probably modify the requirements some, but for this one-page assignment you must:

	Start with the usual MLA heading (See p. 408 in Hacker for the model.)
	Next do an MLA style citation (For this assignment, follow the models in Hacker; reference p. 379.)
	The summary should be the most substantial part of the paper. Deal with the author's main idea and major points only.
	The response should be no longer than three sentences. Respond to the author's proposal only. This should be a thoughtful response, not an emotional one.

Remember, be brief and to the point but not so you are writing childish sentences. This is a college-level assignment, and your writing should reflect the level of your reading, reflection, and evaluation.