ICS
139W Communications Skills for Computer Scientists
Peer
Editing "Writing Instructions"
Make
sure you do not edit the same trick that you were assigned. As you read
and comment on each other's papers, keep in mind the purpose and
audience
of the paper (that is, to teach a ninth grader how to perform a math
magic
trick and understand how it works).
The
editor can mark-up the instructions, and can also write comments on a
separate
sheet of paper. Editors, make sure to write "Edited by" and your name
at
the top. Each author must turn in the editor's written comments along
with
the final version of the paper.
Procedure for
Editors
The
first rule of reading someone else's work is to be both honest and
kind.
You don't do the author any favors by simply saying, "Yeah, it looks
okay."
Don't hesitate to say what you understood or what you didn't; just do
it
pleasantly, helpfully, and professionally.
- Read the entire
set of instructions reasonably quickly, but carefully.
Try to get a basic understanding of what the trick is, without
necessarily
knowing precisely how to do it. Don't worry about minor mechanical
errors
in the writing.
- Is the paper's
tone straightforward, friendly, and appropriate for
ninth
graders?
- Does there seem
to be enough detail for you to perform the trick
yourself?
Does the author explain why the trick works?
- Now reread the
instructions again, and try to learn exactly how to
perform
the trick. (You can quietly perform the trick with the author or with
an
imaginary partner.)
- Are there any
mechanical errors (spelling, punctuation, grammar) that
interfered
with your reading of the instructions? If so, circle them.
- Are any of the
steps confusing? Do any seem to be left out? If so,
explain.
- Is the overall
structure of the instructions easy to follow and
understand?
Is there a helpful introduction and conclusion?
- Review your comments with the author
(and vice versa).