How to Write an Essay - Peer Conference/Editing

When conducting a peer conference you can find errors in your writings that you would otherwise never see. This is because you probably didn't understand it was an error. That is why holding peer conferences is a huge benefit in writing essays. Not only will they find errors you have missed, group members can give you fresh new insights and ideas concerning your topic.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. When the writer gives you a copy of the paper, set aside the time to read it. Make notes on the paper to refer to during the conference.

2. Be sure you understand the essay. Read it carefully. If you are confused, ask yourself if the problem is in the essay or whether you're missing something.

3. At the beginnings of the conference, ask the writer to briefly state the purpose of the essay and point out the thesis statement. If you and the writer disagree, discuss possible reasons.

4. Rather than dictating changes, ask questions that lead the writer to reconsider parts of the draft.

5. Ask the most important questions first so that if time is limited, you can be the most help in the shortest time. For example, tackle problems with purpose and thesis before discussing transitions or a particular word choice.

6. Be supportive. The way you word your comments is as important as the comments themselves. At the same time you should be honest or you won't be much help.

Resources

• How To Write An Essay-Planning
• How To Write an Essay-Writing a Rough Draft
• How To Write An Essay-Revising/Editing

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on 11/5/2009 What a fabulous idea! I really like this.