Essays & AssignmentsCritical Analysis

Study WorkshopFalmer,

1 – 2pm Thursday

• What is critical analysis and why is it important?

• What’s the difference between descriptive and critical/analytical writing?

• How do you write critically?• Top tips and useful resources

Session Outline

• Being negative and over opinionated• Weighing up the arguments for and against• Trying to find fault • Forming your own judgement

What does the term 'critical analysis' mean?

Critical analysis: what is it?

• Carefully and objectively considering the evidence

• Weighing up the arguments for and against• Forming your own conclusions and opinions• Showing an element of original thought

Critical analysis: why is it important?

• Not just regurgitating facts• Advancing boundaries of knowledge• Provides work with academic rigour• Your opportunity to offer your own

perspective

What is the difference between descriptive writing and

critical/analytical writing?

Critical Thinking

When you read:• What is the main argument?• Where is the evidence?• Is there a hidden agenda?• Are referenced sources reliable?• Is there any bias?• What are the conclusions?

How to think and write critically...

Critical Writing Activity

See the Successful Academic Writing Exercise handout.

Compare the two extracts from essays.

1.Which extract is a better example of critical writing?

2.What features are more apparent in the better extract?

Critical Writing Checklist• Have you reproduced your lecturer’s words or examples?• Have you copied information from a textbook?• Have you used too many quotes? (More than three per A4 page, for example)• Have you allowed a quote to make your point?

If yes to any of the above:• Use your own words to paraphrase rather than overquote• Expand on the idea that the quote provides (discuss, link, question, compare,

provide examples)• Make sure your own voice ca e heard throughout your writing

Gillett, A., Hammond, A. and Martala, M. (2009). Successful Academic Writing. Harlow: Pearson Education, p 99

Finding your academic voice

See Finding Your Academic Voice Exercise handout

1.How do each of the highlighted words show the author’s voice?

2.What is the author saying by using each of the highlighted words?

Top Tips for Critical Analysis

Check out the University of Reading’s study skills website for top tips on critical analysis: http://www.reading.ac.uk/internal/studyadvice/StudyResources/Essays/sta-developessay.aspx

• Avoid unnecessary description • Interpret your evidence • Be specific • Use counter-arguments to your advantage

References

• ASK website: http://student.brighton.ac.uk/ask/• Learn Higher website:

http://learnhigher.ac.uk/Students/Critical-thinking-and-reflection.html

• University of Reading website: http://www.reading.ac.uk/internal/studyadvice/

• Gillett, A., Hammond, A. and Martala, M. (2009). Successful Academic Writing. Harlow: Pearson Education,

Thursday 1st Dec: Exams and Revision

Workshops

Good luck with your future studieshere at Brighton!

Thank you for participating