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Chapter 1: “They Say: Starting with What Others Are
Saying”

Overview

Chapter 1 emphasizes the importance of initiating

academic writing by engaging with existing
conversations. The authors argue that effective
arguments are framed as responses to prior claims,
critiques, or debates. By first presenting “what others
are saying,” writers provide context and demonstrate
the relevance of their own perspectives.Baruch
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1. Entering the Conversation

Graff and Birkenstein liken academic writing to a

dialogue, where writers join ongoing discussions. They
stress that to contribute meaningfully, one must first
understand and articulate the existing viewpoints. This
approach ensures that readers grasp the significance
of the writer's argument within a broader context.

2. The “They Say” and “I Say” Structure

The chapter introduces the foundational concept of

the book: the interplay between “they say” (others'
arguments) and “I say” (the writer's response). This
structure encourages writers to

• Summarize others' viewpoints to establish a

foundation.Studocu+1Baruch Blogs+1
• Present their own arguments as a response,
whether in agreement, disagreement, or a
combination.blhedman+1Baruch Blogs+1

This method fosters clarity and positions the writer's

ideas within a larger discourse.

3. The Importance of Context

The authors caution against presenting arguments in

isolation. Without acknowledging existing
perspectives, readers may struggle to understand the
relevance or significance of the writer's points. By
situating their arguments within ongoing
conversations, writers enhance the persuasiveness
and clarity of their work.Selected Reads+6Baruch
Blogs+6SuperSummary+6WRT 3011+4Baruch
Blogs+4Studocu+4

4. Strategies for Introducing “They Say”

Graff and Birkenstein offer practical techniques for

incorporating others' viewpoints:Baruch
Blogs+6SuperSummary+6Baruch Blogs+6

• Direct Summarization: Clearly stating the

arguments or positions of
others.www.slideshare.net+1Studocu+1
• Quotations: Using direct quotes to present
others' words, ensuring accurate
representation.Dream Big
• Paraphrasing: Restating others' ideas in one's
own words, maintaining the original meaning.
These strategies help writers effectively integrate
external perspectives into their work.Dream
Big+5SuperSummary+5Baruch Blogs+5

5. Templates and Tools

To assist writers, the chapter provides templates for

introducing and responding to others' arguments.
Examples include:WRT 3011+1SuperSummary+1

• “Many experts argue that ______.”

• “It has been suggested that ______.”
• “While some believe ______, others contend
______.”

These templates serve as starting points, guiding

writers in structuring their arguments and ensuring
engagement with existing discussions.

6. Addressing Potential Concerns

Some writers may worry that using templates or

focusing on others' ideas might stifle originality.
However, the authors argue that engaging with
existing conversations enhances critical thinking and
allows writers to position their unique perspectives
more effectively.

Conclusion

Chapter 1 underscores the significance of beginning

academic writing by acknowledging and summarizing
existing viewpoints. By doing so, writers provide
context, demonstrate awareness of ongoing
discussions, and position their arguments as
meaningful contributions. The “they say/I say”
framework serves as a foundational tool for crafting
coherent and persuasive academic essays.

Chapter 2: “Her Point Is: The Art of Summarizing”

Overview

Chapter 2 delves into the nuanced skill of

summarizing, emphasizing its pivotal role in academic
writing. Graff and Birkenstein argue that effective
summarization is not merely about condensing
information but about engaging in a dialogue with
existing ideas. By accurately and thoughtfully
summarizing others' arguments, writers can position
their own perspectives within a broader conversation,
enhancing the clarity and persuasiveness of their
work.

1. The Purpose of Summarizing

The authors assert that summarizing serves as a

bridge between existing discourse and the writer's
own argument. By presenting what "they say," writers
demonstrate an understanding of the conversation
they are entering, setting the stage for their "I say"
responses. This approach ensures that arguments are
contextualized and relevant, fostering a more
engaging and meaningful discussion.

2. Balancing Fidelity and Focus

A central challenge in summarizing is balancing

fidelity to the original source with the writer's own
focus. Graff and Birkenstein caution against two
common pitfalls:Quizlet+2Quizlet+2Studocu+2

• Overly Biased Summaries: Allowing personal

opinions to overshadow the original author's
intent, leading to misrepresentation.Studocu
• List Summaries: Merely cataloging points without
a coherent thread, resulting in a disjointed and
unfocused summary.

Effective summaries should accurately reflect the

original argument while highlighting aspects pertinent
to the writer's
thesis.Quizlet+2SuperSummary+2Studocu+2

3. The "Believing Game"

To summarize effectively, the authors introduce the

concept of the "believing game," coined by writing
theorist Peter Elbow. This involves temporarily
suspending one's own beliefs to fully understand and
represent another's argument. By adopting this
empathetic approach, writers can produce fair and
comprehensive summaries that respect the original
author's perspective.Quizlet+4Quizlet+4prezi.com+4

4. Crafting Engaging Summaries

Graff and Birkenstein emphasize the importance of

crafting summaries that are both accurate and
engaging. They advise against bland or generic
phrases like "she says" or "they believe," which can
render summaries lifeless. Instead, they suggest using
vivid and precise signal verbs that convey the original
author's tone and intent. For
instance:Quizlet+1Quizlet+1Quizlet

• Making a Claim: argue, assert, believe, claim,

emphasize, insist, observe, report,
suggest.prezi.com+2Quizlet+2Quizlet+2
• Expressing Agreement: acknowledge, admire,
agree, endorse, extol, praise, support,
verify.prezi.com+2Quizlet+2Quizlet+2
• Expressing Disagreement: complain,
complicate, contend, contradict, deny, refute,
reject, question.Quizlet+2Quizlet+2prezi.com+2
Using such verbs adds clarity and dynamism to
summaries, making them more compelling to readers.

5. The Satiric Summary

An exception to the rule of neutrality in summarizing is

the satiric summary. Here, writers deliberately infuse
their own perspective to highlight flaws or
contradictions in the original argument. While this
approach can be effective in certain contexts, it
requires careful execution to avoid misrepresentation
or unfairness.Studocu+3Quizlet+3Bartleby+3

6. Integrating Summaries into Your Argument

Effective summaries should not stand alone but be

seamlessly integrated into the writer's argument. This
involves:Studocu+4Quizlet+4Quizlet+4

• Connecting the Summary to Your Thesis:

Ensuring that the summarized points directly
relate to and support your own argument.
 • Transitioning Smoothly: Using appropriate
transitions to move from the summary to your
analysis or response.
• Maintaining Your Voice: While accurately
representing others' views, ensure that your own
voice and perspective remain clear and distinct.

Conclusion

Chapter 2 underscores the significance of

summarizing as a foundational skill in academic
writing. By accurately and thoughtfully presenting
others' arguments, writers can engage in meaningful
dialogues, position their own perspectives effectively,
and enhance the overall persuasiveness of their work.
The chapter provides practical strategies and insights
to help writers master the art of summarizing,
fostering more nuanced and compelling academic
discourse.
Chapter 3: “As He Himself Puts It: The Art of Quoting”

Overview

Chapter 3 delves into the nuanced skill of quoting,

emphasizing its pivotal role in academic writing. Graff
and Birkenstein argue that effective quoting is not
merely about inserting someone else's words into your
text but about integrating those words thoughtfully to
support your argument. The chapter provides
strategies to avoid common pitfalls and to use
quotations in a way that enhances clarity and
persuasiveness.

1. The Purpose of Quoting

Quoting serves multiple functions in academic writing:

• Credibility: Quoting authoritative sources lends

weight to your argument.
• Accuracy: Using exact words ensures that the
original author's intent is preserved.
• Evidence: Quotations act as concrete proof
supporting your claims.Studocu
However, the authors caution that quoting should not
replace your own analysis but should complement
it.Studocu

2. Common Pitfalls in Quoting

Graff and Birkenstein identify several common

mistakes writers make when incorporating
quotations:Quizlet+1Quizgecko | AI Quiz Maker+1

• Overquoting: Relying too heavily on quotations

can overshadow your own voice and
analysis.Quizlet
• Underquoting: Using too few quotations may
weaken your argument by lacking sufficient
evidence.
• Assuming Self-Explanatory Quotations:
Believing that a quotation speaks for itself can
lead to confusion; readers need context and
explanation.Studocu+2Quizgecko | AI Quiz
Maker+2Quizlet+2
The authors stress that effective quoting requires a
balance and thoughtful integration into your own
narrative.Teachers Pay Teachers

3. The “Quotation Sandwich” Technique

To effectively incorporate quotations, the authors

introduce the “quotation sandwich” method:

• Introduction: Provide context for the quotation,

indicating who is speaking and the relevance to
your argument.
• Quotation: Present the exact words from the
source.Quizlet
• Explanation: Analyze and interpret the quotation,
explaining its significance and how it supports
your point.

This technique ensures that quotations are

seamlessly integrated and meaningful within your
text.
4. Framing Quotations

Framing involves surrounding a quotation with your

own words to provide clarity and context. Without
proper framing, quotations can become “dangling” or
“orphaned,” leaving readers uncertain about their
purpose. Effective framing includes:Quizgecko | AI
Quiz
Makerwww.slideshare.net+2SuperSummary+2www.sl
ideshare.net+2

• Signal Phrases: Introducing the quotation with

phrases like “According to...” or “As X
argues...”Studocu+1Quizlet+1
• Interpretation: Following the quotation with
analysis that ties it back to your argument.

Proper framing helps maintain the flow of your writing

and reinforces your analytical voice.

5. Selecting Appropriate Quotations

Choosing the right quotations is crucial. The authors

advise:QuizletStudocu
 • Relevance: Ensure the quotation directly
supports your argument.
• Conciseness: Select the most pertinent part of
the source to avoid overloading your text.
• Clarity: Avoid quotations that are ambiguous or
require extensive explanation unless necessary.

Thoughtful selection of quotations enhances the

effectiveness of your writing.

6. Using Templates for Introducing Quotations

To assist writers in integrating quotations smoothly,

the authors provide templates, such as:

• “X states,
‘...’”www.slideshare.net+3Studocu+3Quizlet+3
• “According to X,
‘...’”SuperSummary+3Studocu+3www.slideshare.
net+3
• “In her book..., X maintains that ‘...’”Studocu
These templates serve as tools to help writers
maintain consistency and clarity when incorporating
sources.

Conclusion

Chapter 3 emphasizes that quoting is an art that,

when done effectively, strengthens your argument and
showcases your engagement with existing discourse.
By avoiding common pitfalls, employing the quotation
sandwich technique, framing quotations
appropriately, selecting relevant excerpts, and
utilizing templates, writers can enhance the clarity
and persuasiveness of their academic writing.

Find the Full Original Textbook (PDF) in the link

below:

CLICK HERE