Position Paper Peer Review Worksheet
Reviewer:___________________________________________________
Tell the writer what you see as the central claims, point out areas that lack clarity, and ask questions to
help them refine their thinking. Pay special attention to flaws in their argument and transitions between
ideas. At this stage, don’t worry about grammar, spelling, and punctuation too much, but do indicate any
places where the writer’s intended meaning is unclear.
Does the essay proceed from a clear and arguable thesis? Are you able to understand exactly what the
writer’s position is before entering into the essay? In your own words, re-state the author’s position.
Does the paper make effective use of multiple sources? Are quotes properly introduced and explained?
Indicate how you see the writer making use of each source, and where applicable suggest other texts or
other uses of existing sources.
Has the writer provided adequate support for claims, responded to potential rebuttals, and qualified the
argument where necessary? Are there any claims that rely on contention or sound like merely statements
of opinion? Remember that the standard of support is not proving that the writer’s position is correct
but rather establishing that it is valid and supportable.
On the opposite side, respond to the writer just as you would any one of the writings we engage in class.
Identify interesting ideas or rhetorical moves, offer contrasting views, complicate their thinking, or offer
some suggestions for missed opportunities.