The document provides tips for writing a literature review, including summarizing sources, analyzing authors' claims and methodologies, and structuring the literature review. It recommends introducing authors with their full names and background info on their work. It also advises including your own thoughts on authors' claims and implications. For the introduction, it suggests establishing the research area, providing an overview of headings, and using parts of annotated bibliography sources. The conclusion on Wednesday will cover finishing the literature review.
2. General Tips
When you first introduce an author, try to state first and
last name, as well as some background info and title of
their work.
Example:
Elizabeth Wardle, Associate Professor at the
University of Central Florida, in her 2008 article “Mutt
Genres and FYC,” explains…
3. General Tips
When you state that an author has conducted a study,
give some background on that study.
Example:
Deborah Brandt conducted a study to trace how literacy
sponsorship played a role in students’ perception of
literacy. In her findings, she explains,”…..”
4. General Tips
After you have completed a section, read over what you
have written. When you have thoughts or ideas regarding
the claims made by your authors, include them.
Look into the words chosen by the authors of your
sources. Explain what you think they may be implying.
Analyze the claims and methodologies. Do you think the
conclusions stated are valid? Why or why not?
5. Writing your introduction
Establish your territory
What research has been conducted?
Provide an overview of your headings
Use parts from the intro to your annotated bib
6. Intro Example
The purpose and reasons for the FCAT Writes test have
been widely debated. Some sources support the
implementation of the FCAT Writes, explaining that the
exam provides a way for educators to assess student
writing (Brown; Swales). Other sources negate the
benefits of the FCAT Writes Test by explaining that
students have different writing processes, and that this
exam may not accurately reflect the writing abilities of
students (Johnson; Smith). By analyzing these sources, I
will study the perception of the FCAT Writes by college
students.
7. General Tips
Think about the order of your headings
Go from more general to more specific
Example:
Defining the FCAT
Positive Perceptions of the FCAT
College Preparation as a Positive Perception of the FCAT
8. Structure of your Lit Review
Introduction (Bold)
Paragraph(s)
Heading(s) (Bold)
Paragraph(s)
Conclusion (Bold)---We will work on this on Wednesday
9. Tips
Your lit review is the beginning of your research paper
Think about how all of these sections introduce your topic
Start thinking about what you want to do with your
project: Who do you want to talk to? Do you want to
survey? Interview? Observe?
On Wednesday, bring a copy of your lit review for peer
review. Final draft due Friday.