Writing Resources

One Reader Response Format

CYCLE 1 (8 min. for each draft)

1. Writers read aloud while others listen and follow along for each draft.
2. Writers take notes while others give oral feedback to each draft in answer to the following questions:
   1. In a sentence or two, how would you sum up the writer's main claim in this draft?
   2. After reading this draft, what are two unanswered questions remaining for you as a reader? How would getting these questions answered help you?
   3. What part of this draft is clearest//most effective/interesting for you as a reader? Why?
   4. What part of this draft could be strengthened? What specific suggestions can you offer for revising it?
   5. Writer's Question (Only ONE question will be addressed; check the main one.):
      How might I strengthen my focus/thesis/?
      What part(s) need more evidence? Why?
      How might I strengthen connections between ideas?
      How might I make my word choice more concise and precise?
      What main proofreading/format concerns do you see? How might I edit them?
      Other:

CYCLE 2

Exchange drafts with a partner in your group; re-read with questions in mind and then write a detailed response memo giving full responses to each of the above questions.

CYCLE 3

• Read reader's responses.
• Do a revising note:
  Based on information received from reader responses, how might you revise this draft? What parts would you keep? Change? Why?
• Keep responses and revising note for revising possibilities.
• Solicit more responses from more readers, including ones outside this class.