Review:
They Say I Say: The Moves That Matter In Academic Writing (expanded Edition)
overall review score: 4.5
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score is between 0 and 5
They Say / I Say: The Moves That Matter in Academic Writing (Expanded Edition) is a widely used instructional text designed to teach students effective strategies for engaging in academic discourse. The book emphasizes the importance of mastering specific rhetorical moves—such as summarizing, contrasting, and qualifying—to develop clear, persuasive, and well-structured scholarly writing. By providing templates, examples, and step-by-step guidance, it aims to improve students' ability to participate meaningfully in academic conversations across disciplines.
Key Features
- Focus on core rhetorical moves fundamental to academic writing
- Extensive use of templates and examples to facilitate learning
- Emphasis on incorporating outside sources effectively with 'they say / I say' framework
- Includes expanded content on argument development and counterarguments
- User-friendly structure suitable for both students and instructors
- Updated edition with new examples and modern writing tips
Pros
- Clear, practical guidance for developing academic writing skills
- Accessible introduction to complex rhetorical concepts
- Helpful templates that assist beginners in structuring arguments
- Encourages critical engagement with sources and promotes clarity
- Widely respected and used in educational settings across various disciplines
Cons
- Some users may find the templates somewhat prescriptive or restrictive
- Requires active engagement; may be less effective if used passively
- Limited focus on non-traditional or creative writing styles
- Could benefit from more diverse examples covering a broader range of disciplines