Summarize the Singleton essay by first stating his main argument (his thesis) and then in a series of parallel sentences his sub-arguments (the MAIN arguments that support the thesis). Each of the sub-arguments may be developed with details in a subsequent sentence. Or you might consider quoting a phrase or two (briefly and within the structure of your own sentence) when such material adds clarity to your summary.
I'll be asking you to write a refutation of one of the sub-arguments above, but for now, just summarize.
Begin by identifying the basic structure of his argument. (Yes, it has one.) Seeing that structure will help you to write an effective summary.
Thus, the paragraph may look as follows:
5 Singleton's main idea. Don't forget to use his full name and the title of his essay
4 Sub-argument #1 (with brief quotation)
3 Development/ quotation (?)
4 Sub-argument #1 (with brief quotation)
3 Development/ quotation (?)
4 Sub-argument #1 (with brief quotation)
3 Development/ quotation (?)
4 Sub-argument #1 (with brief quotation)
3 Development/ quotation (?)
Some advice for those who missed class:
1. Don't overdo it. Summaries are supposed to be considerably shorter than the original.
2. Don't underdo it. You need to cover all his main points completely and accurately.
3. Above all, don't be boring. Your summary should sound objective, but it doesn't have to BE objective. Use strong verbs. Be lively but non-argumentative, at least in this summary paragraph. Let your opinion show but don't state it.
4. Post the draft of your paragraph by Wednesday so we can take a look at them in class.
