9/27

Author____________________

Editor____________________
Date_________ Per._________

Commentary Editing

MLA Quick Check – you want yes in every category                      Yes              No

Does the paper have a heading in the upper left corner?
Does the paper have a title?
Is the title below the heading and centered on the page?
Does the author indent each new paragraph?
Is the entire paper double-spaced? – no extra spaces
Does each page have a page number in the upper right corner?
Does the author maintain a 12pt font in Times New Roman?
Does the author correctly punctuation each quotation
Does the author correctly cite each quotation?

Read the paper through once without marking it.

On the second reading do the following:

1.  Does the introduction provide context for the passage?  Does the context provide enough  

     information to understand the passage and what is happening around it?

2.  Does the introduction contain a purpose for the passage that covers all aspects of the  

     argument put for in the body paragraphs?  If not, make suggestions to the purpose.

3.  Does the author create topic sentences that incorporate the argument of the paragraph?

4.  Examine the quotations –  underline any place where the author summarizes the quotation   

     instead of analyzing the technique.  Identify any place where the author could enhance the  

     the argument and provide suggestions.

5.  Identify places where the author could remove unessential parts of a quotation.

6.  Identify places where the author needs to develop the transitions between points and provide   

     suggestions.

7.  Examine the organization.  Does the author create a clear progression for the argument? 

     Does the author consistently remain on topic?  Should the author include anything,  

     rearrange, or exclude information?

6.  Does the author cover the entire passage?  If not, where should the author add the information?

7.  Read the paper aloud and mark any awkward sentences or awkward jumps in the  

     progression of the argument.  This includes incomplete and run- on sentences or general

     disorganization. 

8.  Score the paper using the rubric on the back and offer suggestions for any category that   

    didn’t receive a strong score.