“Think Piece”
Description:
Think pieces are essays which give you an opportunity to reflect, consider, ponder - that is, think about - ideas presented in class or in readings. Think pieces are not designed to be research papers; you draw from the readings assigned for the class and develop your interpretation. Think pieces are generally about 1,500 words, that is about five typescript pages.
Purpose:
A think piece is designed to invite you to actively converse with the readings of the class and to develop your own interpretation and perspective of the materials and issues.
How to Write It:
In order to write a good think piece you need to read through the assigned reading; consider the questions, issues, and information discussed in class; and present your interpretation of the reading.
In preparation to writing the think piece you are encouraged to discuss your ideas with others. The writing, of course, is done on your own.
Think about your ideas, then illustrate your points with examples from your experience and/or other works or sources. Think pieces are almost always enriched with your own experience when it is related to the topic you are addressing.
Evaluation Criteria:
A good think piece: