Developing an analysis of a written text

Writing practice: Developing an analysis of a written text

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“Mind over Mass Media” is an essay written by Steven Pinker, a psychologist and linguist who teaches at Harvard University and writes books for a general audience. Make notes about Pinker's article in the space below.

Question

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“Mind over Mass Media” is an essay written by Steven Pinker, a psychologist and linguist who teaches at Harvard University and writes books for a general audience. Make notes about Pinker's article in the space below.

Then put Pinker's thesis to the "So what?" test:

  • Does Pinker's thesis answer a question, propose a solution, or take a position?
  • Why will readers be interested in his thesis?
  • Will anyone disagree? Do you disagree?
  • Is the thesis too obvious?
  • Does he support his thesis with appropriate evidence?

Make notes below. Your notes will be a first step in looking at Pinker’s article analytically.

Question

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Make notes below. Your notes will be a first step in looking at Pinker’s article analytically.