One: “They Say”
This chapter provides many key elements and templates that can make a piece of writing sound more effectual. That being the case, Graff and Birkenstein mention that when keeping an audience engaged, it’s important that the writer remembers to structure and keep his ideas organized as not doing so would reverse the natural order in where people process materials. Correctly doing so would avoid confusion and questions. They also introduce many templates in where they showcase how to effectively begin an introduction. Graff and Birkenstein also break down “return sentences”, as they explain how it ensures that the writer knows what he’s speaking about from start to finish. Also allowing the speaker/writer to respond more confidently and firmly to earlier arguments that have made.
What I learned : Before reading this chapter, I didn’t specifically know how to introduce things that other people have said. It showcased examples from templates on introducing other people sayings.
Two: “Her Point Is”
In this chapter, Graff and Birkenstein talk about how to effectively summarize. The first rule they mention speaks about balance and how balance can be both outward and inward. Thus, separating and balancing the writers focus with the authors saying. They also mention a key element to writing a good summary is to suspend beliefs and focus on other kinds of perspectives that are different. Graff and Birkenstein explain when writing an effective summary, the writer must willingly consider new viewpoints rather than their own. In addition, they encourage that the writer expands their viewpoint internationally.
What I learned: I learned that in order to make an effective summary, you must maintain a balance of what the author is saying along with that of the writers focus.
Three: “As He Himself Puts It”
In this chapter, Graff and Birkenstein mainly focus on quotations and how to properly frame them along with template examples. They explain how to successfully include quotations into writings to help strengthen the argument rather than weaken it. They offer two key elements that help strengthen an argument which breaks down into choosing the quotation carefully and framing the quotation correctly. Graff and Birkenstein also talk about “hit and run quotations”. They explain this as quote that has no explanation behind it. Therefore, often confusing the audience to know what claim is actually being made.
What I learned: I learned that in order to frame a quotation correctly, you must insert it into a “quote sandwich”. Where then you can successfully introduce statements and explain the quote.
The Cycle of Life 