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Ultimate guide on writing an effective evaluation essay – tips, examples, and guidelines.

Are you puzzled when it comes to writing an evaluation essay? In this guide, we will provide you with all the essential information you need to master the art of crafting a compelling appraisal composition. Whether you are new to this type of writing or just looking to refine your skills, this comprehensive manual will equip you with the necessary tools and techniques to excel. From understanding the purpose and structure of an evaluation essay to exploring various tips and examples, this guide has got you covered.

An evaluation essay is a piece of writing that aims to assess the value or quality of a particular subject or phenomenon. It involves analyzing a topic, presenting your judgment or opinion on it, and providing evidence or examples to support your claims. This type of essay requires critical thinking, research, and effective communication skills to present a well-balanced evaluation.

Throughout this guide, we will delve into the nitty-gritty of writing an evaluation essay. We will start by discussing the key elements that make up a successful evaluation essay, such as establishing clear criteria, conducting thorough research, and adopting a structured approach. Additionally, we will explore practical tips and strategies to help you gather relevant information, organize your thoughts, and present a persuasive argument. To illustrate these concepts, we will provide you with a range of examples covering various topics and subjects.

Tips for Writing a Top-Notch Evaluation Essay

When it comes to crafting a high-quality evaluation essay, there are several key tips to keep in mind. By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your essay stands out and effectively evaluates the subject matter at hand.

1. Be objective and unbiased: A top-notch evaluation essay should approach the topic with an unbiased and objective perspective. Avoid personal bias or overly emotional language, and instead focus on presenting an honest and well-balanced evaluation of the subject.

2. Provide clear criteria: To effectively evaluate something, it’s important to establish clear criteria or standards by which to assess it. Clearly define the criteria you will be using and explain why these specific factors are essential in evaluating the subject. This will help provide structure to your essay and ensure that your evaluation is thorough and comprehensive.

3. Support your evaluation with evidence: In order to make a convincing argument, it’s crucial to support your evaluation with solid evidence. This can include examples, statistics, expert opinions, or any other relevant information that strengthens your claims. By providing strong evidence, you can enhance the credibility of your evaluation and make it more persuasive.

4. Consider multiple perspectives: A well-rounded evaluation takes into account multiple perspectives on the subject matter. Acknowledge and address counterarguments or differing opinions, and provide thoughtful analysis and reasoning for your stance. This demonstrates critical thinking and a comprehensive evaluation of the topic.

5. Use clear and concise language: Clarity is vital in an evaluation essay. Use clear and concise language to express your thoughts and ideas, avoiding unnecessary jargon or complex vocabulary. Your essay should be accessible to a wide audience and easy to understand, allowing your evaluation to be conveyed effectively.

6. Revise and edit: Don’t neglect the importance of revising and editing your essay. Take the time to review your work and ensure that your evaluation is well-structured, coherent, and error-free. Pay attention to grammar, spelling, and punctuation, as these details can greatly impact the overall quality of your essay.

7. Conclude with a strong summary: For a top-notch evaluation essay, it’s important to conclude with a strong and concise summary of your evaluation. Restate your main points and findings, providing a clear and memorable conclusion that leaves a lasting impression on the reader.

By following these tips, you can enhance your writing skills and create a top-notch evaluation essay that effectively assesses and evaluates the subject matter at hand.

Choose a Relevant and Engaging Topic

When it comes to writing an evaluation essay, one of the most important aspects is selecting a topic that is both relevant and engaging. The topic you choose will determine the focus of your essay and greatly impact the overall quality of your writing. It is crucial to choose a topic that not only interests you but also captivates your audience.

When selecting a topic, consider the subject matter that you are knowledgeable or passionate about. This will enable you to provide a well-informed evaluation and maintain your readers’ interest throughout your essay. Additionally, choose a topic that is relevant in today’s society or has a direct impact on your target audience. This will ensure that your evaluation essay has a practical and meaningful purpose.

Furthermore, it is essential to select a topic that is controversial or debatable. This will allow you to present different perspectives and arguments to support your evaluation. By choosing a topic that sparks discussions and debates, you can engage your readers and encourage them to think critically about the subject matter.

In conclusion, choosing a relevant and engaging topic is crucial for writing an effective evaluation essay. By selecting a topic that interests you, appeals to your readers, and is relevant to society, you can ensure that your essay is engaging and impactful. Remember to choose a topic that is controversial or debatable to provide a comprehensive evaluation and encourage critical thinking among your audience.

Develop a Strong Thesis Statement

Crafting an impactful thesis statement is an essential aspect of writing an evaluation essay. The thesis statement serves as the main argument or claim that you will be supporting throughout your essay. It encapsulates the central idea and sets the tone for the rest of the paper.

When developing your thesis statement, it is crucial to be clear, concise, and specific. It should provide a clear indication of your stance on the subject matter being evaluated while also highlighting the main criteria and evidence that will be discussed in the body paragraphs. A strong thesis statement should be thought-provoking and hook the reader’s attention, compelling them to continue reading.

To build a strong thesis statement, you need to engage in a careful analysis of the topic or subject being evaluated. Consider the various aspects that you will be assessing and select the most significant ones to include in your argument. Your thesis statement should be focused and arguable, allowing for a clear position on the matter.

Additionally, it is crucial to avoid vague or general statements in your thesis. Instead, aim for specificity and clarity. By clearly stating your evaluation criteria, you provide a roadmap for the reader to understand what aspects you will be analyzing and what conclusions you intend to make.

Furthermore, a strong thesis statement should be supported by evidence and examples. You should be able to provide concrete support for your evaluation through relevant facts, statistics, or expert opinions. This strengthens the credibility and persuasiveness of your argument, making your thesis statement more compelling.

In summary, developing a strong thesis statement is a critical step in writing an evaluation essay. It sets the foundation for your argument, guiding your analysis and providing a clear direction for the reader. By being clear, concise, specific, and well-supported, your thesis statement helps you create a persuasive and impactful evaluation essay.

Provide Clear and Concise Criteria for Evaluation

One of the most important aspects of writing an evaluation essay is providing clear and concise criteria for evaluation. In order to effectively evaluate a subject or topic, it is essential to establish specific standards or benchmarks that will be used to assess its performance or quality.

When establishing criteria for evaluation, it is crucial to be thorough yet succinct. Clear criteria enable the reader to understand the basis upon which the evaluation is made, while concise criteria ensure that the evaluation remains focused and impactful.

There are several strategies you can employ to provide clear and concise criteria for evaluation. One approach is to define specific attributes or characteristics that are relevant to the subject being evaluated. For example, if you are evaluating a restaurant, you might establish criteria such as the quality of the food, the level of service, and the ambience of the establishment.

Another strategy is to utilize a scoring system or rating scale to assess the subject. This can help provide a more quantitative evaluation by assigning numerical values to different aspects of the subject. For instance, a movie review might use a rating scale of 1 to 5 to evaluate the acting, plot, and cinematography of the film.

In addition to defining specific attributes or using a scoring system, it is important to provide examples or evidence to support your evaluation. This can help make your criteria more concrete and relatable to the reader. For instance, if you are evaluating a car, you could provide examples of its fuel efficiency, handling performance, and safety features.

By providing clear and concise criteria for evaluation, you can effectively communicate your assessment to the reader and support your conclusions. This will help ensure that your evaluation essay is well-structured, informative, and persuasive.

Support Your Evaluation with Solid Evidence

When writing an evaluation essay, it is crucial to support your evaluations with solid evidence. Without proper evidence, your evaluation may appear weak and unsubstantiated. By providing strong evidence, you can convince your readers of the validity of your evaluation and make a compelling argument.

One effective way to support your evaluation is by using concrete examples. These examples can be specific instances or cases that illustrate the strengths or weaknesses of the subject being evaluated. By presenting real-life examples, you can provide tangible evidence and make your evaluation more persuasive.

Another way to support your evaluation is by referring to expert opinions or research studies. These external sources can add credibility to your evaluation and demonstrate that your assessment is based on sound knowledge and expertise. Citing respected experts or referencing reputable studies can enhance the validity of your evaluation and make it more convincing.

In addition to concrete examples and expert opinions, statistical data can also be a powerful tool for supporting your evaluation. Numbers and statistics can provide objective evidence and strengthen your evaluation by adding a quantitative dimension to your argument. By citing relevant statistics, you can add weight to your evaluations and demonstrate the magnitude of the subject’s strengths or weaknesses.

Furthermore, it is important to consider counterarguments and address them in your evaluation. By acknowledging opposing viewpoints and addressing them effectively, you can strengthen your own evaluation and demonstrate a thorough understanding of the subject. This approach shows that you have considered different perspectives and have arrived at a well-rounded evaluation.

In conclusion, supporting your evaluation with solid evidence is essential to writing a persuasive evaluation essay. By using concrete examples, expert opinions, statistical data, and addressing counterarguments, you can bolster the validity and strength of your evaluation. Remember to present your evidence clearly and logically, making your evaluation more compelling and convincing to your readers.

Use a Structured Format to Organize Your Essay

When writing an evaluation essay, it is important to use a structured format to organize your thoughts and arguments. This will help you present your ideas in a clear and logical manner, making it easier for your reader to follow along and understand your points. By using a structured format, you can ensure that your essay flows smoothly and effectively communicates your evaluation.

One effective way to structure your evaluation essay is to use a table format. This allows you to present your evaluation criteria and supporting evidence in a concise and organized manner. By using a table, you can easily compare and contrast different aspects of the subject being evaluated, making it easier for your reader to grasp the overall evaluation.

In addition to using a table format, you should also follow a logical structure within each section of your essay. Start with a clear introduction, where you introduce the subject you are evaluating and provide some background information. Then, present your evaluation criteria and explain why these criteria are important for assessing the subject. Next, provide specific examples and evidence to support your evaluation, using the table format as a guide. Finally, end your essay with a strong conclusion that summarizes your evaluation and reinforces your main points.

By using a structured format, you can effectively organize your evaluation essay and present your ideas in a clear and concise manner. This will make your essay more engaging and persuasive, and help your reader understand and appreciate your evaluation.

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Evaluation Essay

Evaluation Essay - Definition, Examples, and Writing Tips

13 min read

What is an Evaluation Essay?

Let’s first understand the evaluation essay meaning, here is the standard definition:

An evaluation essay offers a value judgment or an opinion of something. It presents an overall view of a particular subject’s quality. Moreover, it provides a critical analysis and a complete evaluation of something.

What is the Purpose of an Evaluation Essay?

The main purpose of an evaluation essay is to present an opinion and evaluate a topic critically. This type of writing determines the condition, worth, or significance by careful appraisal and study.

This essay features the writer’s opinion, but when done correctly, it does not sound opinionated. Instead, it provides the facts and evidence to justify the opinions about the essay’s subject.

To write a good evaluation essay, you need to master critical evaluation and present the evaluation in an unbiased manner. You may also discuss both the pros and cons of the subject.

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Evaluation Essay Structure

The four different ways to format and organize the evaluation essay are as follows.

1. Chronological Structure

It is a sequential organization that could be used for evaluating historical or current events. It tells how something works and assesses the effectiveness of a mechanism, procedure, or process.

2. Spatial Structure

The spatial organization structure is used for evaluating or describing art or architecture. Here, you will define one element of the artifact and spatially move to the next.

3. Compare and Contrast Structure

The compare and contrast structure is used to evaluate or review the culinary or music genre. Here the writer evaluates a subject by comprising and contrasting it with the known subject.

4. Point-by-Point Structure

The point-by-point structure is also used for culinary and music reviews. But, in this structure, you describe one element and then evaluate it, describe the second element and evaluate it, and so on.

After setting the criteria and collecting evidence for strengthening your judgment, you’ll start your evaluation essay. Let’s see what are the steps involved in starting an evaluation essay.

How to Start an Evaluation Essay?

When you start writing an evaluation essay, grabbing the reader’s attention is essential. For this, hook the reader from the beginning until the end to ensure that your essay’s opening follows an engaging tone.

Step 1. Choose an Interesting Topic

Deciding the topic and evaluation essay criteria is important. Make sure it's not just compelling and interesting, but also informative so that you can find enough material for a detailed evaluation.

Step 2. Set the Evaluation Essay Criteria

For an evaluation essay, you have to set the criteria for evaluation first. Criteria are the standards or measures by which someone assesses the quality or value of the subject.

Some key points to establish the criteria are:

Identifying relevant aspects that relate to the subject
Defining the criteria clearly so that it is specific and understandable for readers
Your criteria should be directly relevant to the nature of the subject
Always consider the audience’s expectations and standards while setting the criteria
Your thesis statement should always align with your evaluation criteria

Step 3. Collect Evidence for Your Judgment

The author’s judgment of the subject states whether the subject is good or bad. It is an overall assessment or the opinion supported by the evidence. The judgment corresponds to the benchmarks set by the author in the essay criteria.

The evidence is a combination of supporting data and facts. Using the evidence, the author demonstrates how well the subject meets the judgment. The evidence serves as the foundation of your evaluation.

Without providing strong and accurate evidence, you will not be able to convince the readers of your judgment.

Step 4. Decide the Essay Structure

After that, decide on the structure that you want to follow. It can be a chronological or point-by-point structure

Step 5. Craft the Essay Outline

When you create an essay outline , evaluate what should be added and removed. If you skip this step before writing, you may lose track of what to include in your essay while you write.

So, writing an outline for your evaluation essay is a critical step that eases your writing journey.

Here is a sample evaluation essay outline:

Step 6. Declare Your Thesis Statement

For an evaluation essay that keeps the reader hooked from the start, opt for a catchy thesis statement . The thesis should state the main point of the evaluation.

In the thesis statement, you should always express your stance on the subject clearly. In doing so, the readers will have a clear idea about the purpose and direction of your essay.

Now, understand how to write an evaluation essay by following the detailed procedure mentioned below.

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How to Write an Evaluation Essay?

Here is a step-by-step guide for you to write an evaluation essay.

Step 1. Write the Introduction

The introduction is the first impression your readers will have of you, so it's crucial to make a good one. It should capture attention and excite readers, drawing them into what you have to say about this topic.

The following are the elements that you should consider while writing the introduction:

Start with an interesting hook statement so that you can get the reader’s attention.
Provide background information about the topic for the reader to understand the subject
Establish the evaluation essay thesis statement. It sets out the overall purpose of the evaluation, so make sure it is apparent and to the point

Read this evaluation essay introduction example, and you’ll understand exactly what to pen down in yours:

Step 2. Draft the Body Section

The body of the essay consists of three paragraphs. Each paragraph holds different ideas related to one another and flows smoothly from start to finish, just like how a good story should be told.

Here are the important points that must be included in the body paragraphs.

Start with the topic sentence that presents your judgment about the topic
Present the supporting evidence to back up the topic sentence and your viewpoint.
Present a balanced evaluative argument to show impartiality
Compare and contrast the subject to another subject to show the strengths and weaknesses
Present the evaluation from multiple perspectives, while being both positive and critical
Always use transition words between your paragraphs to ensure a smooth and coherent flow for the reader.

Step 3. Write the Conclusion

It is the final chance to convince your reader to agree with your point of view. You’re supposed to summarize and conclude the essay. In the conclusion , you present your final evaluation of the essay.

Keep in mind the following aspects while writing a closing paragraph of an evaluation essay.

Summarize the points and evaluative arguments that you made in the body section.
Justify your thesis statement.
Provide a concrete and secure conclusion to your argument by ultimately leaving the reader convinced by your evaluation.

Step 4. Proofread, Revise, and Edit

The final step is proofreading and editing. Always spend enough time reading your essay carefully. It will help you catch the unintentional mistakes you have made and recover them. If needed, you can also revise your essay 2–3 times.

How to Format Your Evaluation Essay?

For formatting your evaluation essay, follow the standard academic writing guidelines. You can opt for different formatting styles like APA, MLA, or Chicago.

In general, you should stick to the below formatting guidelines:

Font and Size:

Use a legible font such as Times New Roman or Arial.
Choose a standard font size, often 12-point.
Set one-inch margins on all sides of the paper.
Double-space the entire essay, including the title, headings, and body paragraphs.
Create a title for your essay that reflects the subject and purpose of the evaluation.
Center the title on the page.
Use title case (capitalize the first letter of each major word).
Include a header with your last name and page number in the top right corner.
Follow the format “Last Name Page Number” (e.g., “Smith 1”).

Citations (if applicable):

Include citations for any sources used in your evaluation.
Follow the citation style specified by your instructor or the required style guide (APA, MLA, Chicago).

Counterargument (if included):

Clearly label and present any counterargument.
Provide a well-reasoned response to the counterargument.

References or Works Cited Page (if applicable):

Include a separate page for references or a works cited page if your essay includes citations.
List all sources in the appropriate citation style.

Well, the time has come to look at some great evaluation essay examples. Getting help from sample essays is always a great way to perfect your evaluation papers.

Evaluation Essay Examples

Evaluation can be written on any topic, i.e., book, movie, music, etc. Below, we have given some evaluation essay examples for students:

Evaluation Essay Sample PDF

Movie Evaluation Essay Example

Critical evaluation Essay Example PDF

Product Evaluation Essay PDF

Source Evaluation Essay Example PDF

Employee Self-Evaluation Essay Example

How to Start A Self-Evaluation Essay Example PDF

Evaluation Essay Topics For College Students

For writing an amazing evaluation essay, the first thing that you require is an essay topic. Here are some incredible topic ideas for college students. You can use or mold them according to your preference.

Artificial intelligence's impact on society: A double-edged sword?
Evaluate the online teaching and on-campus teaching styles
Analyze and evaluate the Real Madrid football team and their performance
Is media a threat to cultural cohesion or a source of enrichment?
Compare and evaluate recorded music and live performance
Evaluate how a university's football team impacts students' personalities
Critically evaluate a remake of an original movie you have watched recently
Analyze how the roles of females and males changed in recent romantic movies
Evaluate your favorite restaurant, its food, aroma, and everything
Critically evaluate gender disparities in college majors and career choices.

Evaluation Essay vs. Review

At first glance, an evaluation essay might look like a review. But, there are some notable differences between them. See this table to see how both pieces of writing differ from each other.

To conclude,

After reading the step-by-step guide and examples, you must have learned the art of writing a good evaluation essay. We’re confident that you’re now able to provide a balanced and effective evaluation of the topics you choose for your essay.

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MyPerfectWords.com is a writing service that offers help for all academic writing assignments. We have a team of professional writers who are experts in writing all types of essays and evaluation papers.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. what are the four components of an evaluation essay.

The four components of an evaluation essay are:

Introduction
Background information

2. What are the 4 types of evaluation?

The four types of evaluation are:

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Jun 29, 2023

Evaluation Essay Examples: Master the Art of Critical Assessment with Examples and Techniques

Want to turn good evaluation essays into great ones? We've got you covered with the guidance and insights you need. Join us as we delve into the art of critical assessment!

An evaluation paper's main purpose is to assess entities like a book, movie, restaurant, or product and provide constructive criticism. This writing style can be approached with serious objectivity or with humor and sarcasm. Reviewing is a common form of academic writing that serves to assess something and is often used in various fields as a research method. For example, research papers might include literature reviews or case studies, using evaluation as an analytical tool.

Evaluation reports can also take the form of analyses and critiques. A critique of a scientific study would look at its methodology and findings, while an analysis of a novel would focus on its themes, characters, and writing style. It's essential to consider your audience and your purpose before starting an evaluation document.

Evaluation papers are a versatile and meaningful writing form that can both educate and entertain audiences. Regardless of whether the tone is serious or humorous, objective or subjective, a well-written review can engage and educate.

To understand everything about evaluation essays, from their definition and purpose to potential topics and writing tips, read on.

What are Evaluation Essays?

An evaluation essay allows the author to make a claim and offer a verdict on a topic. This essay type can be used to identify the best option among several alternatives, or to analyze a specific method, product, or situation. It is a common academic task across all levels. Evaluation essays come in different forms, from online product reviews to business cases prepared by management professionals.

In contrast to a descriptive essay, an evaluation essay aims to express the author's judgment. However, this essay type is defined by an objective tone. The author's judgment should be based on careful examination of the available evidence. This differs from a persuasive essay, which seeks to convince the reader to adopt the author's point of view. An evaluation essay starts with the facts and forms conclusions based on these facts.

How to Write an Evaluation Essay?

To write an effective evaluation essay, follow these essential writing tips:

1. Select a Topic

The essay topic is crucial. It should be both educational and interesting, providing enough information to fill an entire essay.

2. Draft an Evaluation Essay Outline

Professional writers always advise creating an evaluation essay outline before writing the essay itself. This aids in writing and ensures content coherence. An outline is also easier to modify than a complete essay. Think about what should be included and excluded when designing your essay's outline. However, skipping this step and diving straight into the essay writing can create extra work later, as it can mean editing and revising the entire piece.

The general components of an evaluation essay outline include:

a. Introduction

The introduction is vital as it forms the readers' first impression. It should engage readers and arouse their interest in the topic. The aspects to consider when writing the introduction are as follows:

Begin with a compelling hook statement to capture the reader's interest.

Provide background information on the topic for better understanding.

Formulate a clear and concise thesis statement, outlining the main objective of the evaluation.

b. Body Section

The body of the essay consists of three paragraphs. Each paragraph should deliver several related ideas and flow seamlessly from start to finish. The key ideas to cover in the body paragraphs include:

Start with a sentence that presents your view on the topic.

Provide arguments that support the topic sentence and your stance.

Present a well-rounded argument to show impartiality.

Compare the subject to a different topic to showcase its strengths and weaknesses.

Present the evaluation from various angles, applying both approving and critical thinking.

c. Conclusion

This is your final chance to convince the reader of your viewpoint. The conclusion should summarize the essay and present the overall evaluation and final assessment. When composing an evaluation essay's conclusion, keep the following points in mind:

Restate your main points and arguments from the essay body.

Present evidence to support your thesis.

Conclude your argument convincingly, ultimately persuading the reader of your assessment.

3. Review, Edit, and Proofread

The final steps after writing the essay are editing and proofreading. Carefully reading your essay will help identify and correct any unintentional errors. If necessary, review your draft multiple times to ensure no mistakes are present.

Structure of an Evaluation Essay

An evaluation essay, like any good piece of writing, follows a basic structure: an introduction, body, and conclusion. But to make your evaluation essay standout, it's crucial to distinctly outline every segment and explain the process that led you to your final verdict. Here's how to do it:

Introduction

Start strong. Your introduction needs to captivate your readers and compel them to read further. To accomplish this, begin with a clear declaration of purpose. Provide a brief background of the work being evaluated to showcase your expertise on the topic.

Next, rephrase the essay prompt, stating the purpose of your piece. For example, "This essay will critically assess X, utilizing Y standards, and analyzing its pros and cons." This presents your comprehension of the task at hand.

Wrap up your introduction with a thesis statement that clearly outlines the topics to be discussed in the body. This way, you set the stage for the essay's content and direction, sparking curiosity for the main body of the work.

Body of the Essay

Dive deep, but not without preparation. Before delving into the assessment, offer an unbiased overview of the topic being evaluated. This reaffirms your understanding and familiarity with the subject.

Each paragraph of the body should focus on one evaluation criterion, presenting either support or criticism for the point. This structured approach ensures clarity while presenting evidence to substantiate each point. For instance, discussing the benefits of a product, you can outline each advantage and back it up with supporting evidence like customer reviews or scientific studies.

Ensure a smooth flow of thoughts by linking paragraphs with transitional phrases like "in addition," "moreover," and "furthermore." Each paragraph should have a clear topic sentence, explanation, and supporting evidence or examples for easy understanding.

Your conclusion is where you make your final, compelling argument. It should focus on summarizing the points made according to your evaluation criteria. This isn't the place for new information but rather a concise summary of your work.

To conclude effectively, revisit your thesis and check whether it holds up or falls short based on your analysis. This completes the narrative arc and provides a solid stance on the topic. A thoughtful conclusion should consider the potential impact and outcomes of your evaluation, illustrating that your findings are based on the available data and recognizing the potential need for further exploration.

Evaluation Essay Examples

Now that we've covered the structure, let's take a look at some examples. Remember, an evaluation essay is just one type of essay that can be generated using tools like Jenni.ai. This AI-powered software can produce high-quality essays on any topic at impressive speeds. Here are some ideas to kickstart your assessment essay writing journey.

Evaluation Essay: Online Teaching vs. On-campus Teaching

In the face of technological evolution, education has seen a shift in teaching styles, with online learning platforms providing an alternative to traditional on-campus teaching. This essay will evaluate and compare the effectiveness of these two teaching styles, delving into various factors that contribute to their strengths and weaknesses.

The landscape of education has transformed significantly with the advent of online learning. This essay will scrutinize and juxtapose the effectiveness of online teaching against traditional on-campus teaching. The evaluation will take into account numerous factors that contribute to the success of each teaching style, focusing on their individual benefits and drawbacks.

On-campus Teaching

On-campus teaching, the time-tested method of education, has proven its effectiveness repeatedly. The physical classroom setting provides students direct access to their teachers, promoting immediate feedback and real-time interaction. Moreover, the hands-on learning, group discussions, and collaborative projects intrinsic to on-campus teaching cultivate crucial soft skills like communication and teamwork.

A study by the National Bureau of Economic Research reveals that students attending on-campus classes show higher academic performance and are more likely to complete their degrees compared to those in online classes (Bettinger & Loeb, 2017). However, on-campus teaching isn't without its challenges. It offers limited flexibility in scheduling and requires physical attendance, which can be inconvenient for students residing far from campus or those with mobility constraints.

Online Teaching

Online teaching, propelled by technological advancements and digital learning platforms, offers a compelling alternative. The most significant benefit of online teaching is its scheduling flexibility. Students can access classes and course materials from anywhere, at any time, providing a superior balance for work, family, and other commitments.

Online teaching democratizes education by enabling access for students in remote areas or with mobility challenges. The use of innovative teaching methods like interactive multimedia and gamification enhances engagement and enjoyment in learning.

Despite its numerous advantages, online teaching presents its own set of challenges. A major drawback is the lack of direct interaction with teachers and peers, potentially leading to delayed feedback and feelings of isolation. Furthermore, online classes demand a higher degree of self-motivation and discipline, which may be challenging for some students.

Both online teaching and on-campus teaching present their unique benefits and drawbacks. While on-campus teaching fosters direct interaction and immediate feedback, online teaching provides unmatched flexibility and accessibility. The choice between the two often depends on factors such as the course content, learning objectives, and student preferences.

A study by the University of Massachusetts reports that the academic performance of students in online classes is on par with those attending on-campus classes (Allen & Seaman, 2017). Furthermore, online classes are more cost-effective, eliminating the need for physical classrooms and related resources.

In conclusion, while both teaching styles have their merits, the effectiveness of each is heavily dependent on the subject matter, learning objectives, and the individual needs and preferences of students.

Citations: Allen, I. E., & Seaman, J. (2017). Digital learning compass: Distance education enrollment report 2017. Babson Survey Research Group. Bettinger, E., & Loeb, S. (2017). Promises and pitfalls of online education. Brookings Papers on Economic Activity, Spring 2017, 347-384.

Evaluation essay: Analyze how the roles of females and males changed in recent romantic movies

Romantic movies have long been a popular genre, offering a glimpse into the complex and varied world of relationships. Over the years, the portrayal of gender roles in romantic movies has evolved significantly. This essay aims to evaluate and analyze how the roles of females and males have changed in recent romantic movies.

Historical Context of Gender Roles in Romantic Movies:

Gender roles have played a significant role in shaping the portrayal of romantic relationships in movies. In the past, traditional gender roles were often reinforced, with women playing the role of the damsel in distress, and men playing the role of the protector and provider.

However, over the years, the feminist movement and other social changes have led to a more nuanced portrayal of gender roles in romantic movies. Women are no longer just passive objects of desire, and men are not just dominant figures. Instead, both genders are portrayed as complex and multifaceted individuals with their desires, needs, and struggles.

Analysis of Recent Romantic Movies:

In recent years, romantic movies have become more diverse and inclusive, featuring a wider range of gender identities, sexual orientations, and cultural backgrounds. As a result, the portrayal of gender roles in these movies has also become more nuanced and complex.

One significant trend in recent romantic movies is the portrayal of female characters as strong, independent, and empowered. Female characters are no longer just passive objects of desire, waiting for the male lead to sweep them off their feet. Instead, they are shown to be capable of taking charge of their own lives, pursuing their goals, and making their own decisions.

For example, in the movie "Crazy Rich Asians," the female lead, Rachel, is portrayed as a strong and independent woman who stands up for herself and refuses to be intimidated by the wealthy and powerful people around her. Similarly, in the movie "The Shape of Water," the female lead, Elisa, is portrayed as a determined and resourceful woman who takes action to rescue the creature she has fallen in love with.

Another trend in recent romantic movies is the portrayal of male characters as vulnerable and emotionally expressive. Male characters are no longer just stoic and unemotional but are shown to have their insecurities, fears, and vulnerabilities.

For example, in the movie "Call Me By Your Name," the male lead, Elio, is shown to be sensitive and emotional, struggling with his feelings for another man. Similarly, in the movie "Moonlight," the male lead, Chiron, is shown to be vulnerable and emotionally expressive, struggling with his identity and his relationships with those around him.

However, while there have been significant changes in the portrayal of gender roles in recent romantic movies, there are still some aspects that remain problematic. For example, female characters are still often portrayed as objects of desire, with their value determined by their physical appearance and sexual appeal. Male characters are still often portrayed as dominant and aggressive, with their masculinity tied to their ability to assert control over others.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, the portrayal of gender roles in recent romantic movies has evolved significantly, with female characters being portrayed as strong, independent, and empowered, and male characters being portrayed as vulnerable and emotionally expressive. These changes reflect the shifting social norms and values of our society and offer a more nuanced and complex portrayal of romantic relationships.

However, there are still some problematic aspects of the portrayal of gender roles in romantic movies, such as the objectification of female characters and the perpetuation of toxic masculinity. Filmmakers and audiences need to continue to push for greater diversity, inclusivity, and nuance in the portrayal of gender roles in romantic movies so that everyone can see themselves reflected in these stories.

"Crazy Rich Asians" Directed by Jon M. Chu, performances by Constance Wu, Henry Golding, and Michelle

Final Thoughts

The step-by-step guide and examples provided should have equipped you with the skills necessary to write a successful evaluation essay. However, crafting the perfect essay isn't a simple task; it demands practice, patience, and experience.

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Evaluation Essay: Writing Guide, Outline & Free Samples

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Are you wondering how to write an evaluation essay? We are here to inspire and let you know all the essential steps to get started. This blog post will describe what is an evaluative essay, including its purpose and elements. In addition, you will be enlightened on how to actually write evaluations - all the necessary factors and steps will be elaborated on. These steps are: deciding what to appraise, what criteria to apply, and how to develop arguments and outlines. Toward the end, you will be provided with evaluation essay samples that will enable you to put theoretical guidelines into practice. Strictly follow this blog post from our essay writer services to the end.

What Is an Evaluation Essay: Definition

The starting point of being well-versed in this from of writing is understanding its definition and purpose, as it will lay a good foundation for further work. Evaluation essay is a paper that offers evidence that helps to justify writer's opinion on different subjects by providing enough facts to convince readers. Such type of writing requires critical thinking skills when analyzing, synthesizing, and assessing given topics to avoid misleading your audience. The main purpose of this type of paper is to provide objective criticism oт various subjects and make conclusions about them. As a result, the latter helps readers to take a stance about a topic. In addition, there is an exhaustive review of fundamental characteristics, styles, and quality of subjects under discussion. The value of a particular topic is obtained through supportive and factual evidence provided. Finally, this paper helps present well-reasoned and informed judgment on particular standards, hence clearing concerning issues about a given subject.

Things You Can Write an Evaluation About

Preparing evaluative essay is a broad topic, and you need to be well-organized, or else the text will quickly lose meaning and purpose. There are various abstract categories and exact things that you can assess in writing. When you write evaluations, ensure you deeply understand your topic of discussion. Reading through an evaluation example will help you know what to do. Some evaluation essay topics and objects suitable for assessment include:

Experience: gaming, traveling, and shopping.
Music: its content, the impact, instruments played, and comparison to other works by artists.
Furniture: chair, desk, stool, table, etc.
Fruits: guava, mangoes, oranges, pineapples.
Trees: oak, teak, pine.
Sports: volleyball, table tennis, golf.
Clothes: casual wear, sportswear, formalwear.
Class: methods of teaching , challenges, type of assessments, etc.
Social trend: origin, overall influence, and objectives.
Courses: journalism, mathematics, business, and history.

Elements of an Evaluation Essay

Understanding all components of evaluation papers - three in total - is important during writing. They include:

Criteria In order to determine aspects you will assess about certain brands, services, or products, a proper set of standards is required. Standard helps in demonstrating expectations. During evaluative writing, it is essential to think about some good samples of similar brands, services, or products. Also, contemplate on related significant features. For instance, a house can be well-ventilated, secure, and clean, which are quite helpful benchmarks.
Judgment A second element in essay evaluation is judgment. This aspect helps to establish if stated standards were met. Considering the previous example of a house discussed under this criteria, you may first assess if the house is secure or not. Find out if the house meets, exceeds, or falls short of your anticipated security standards, then move on to other criteria.
Evidence This component focuses on providing facts supporting the judgment. For instance, in the house example, if you conclude that security level does not meet the expected standards, provide evidence to prove this judgment. When you structure an evaluation essay, ensure each paragraph discusses a different criterion. It helps you to make judgments and provide evidence under each paragraph.

What to Consider Before Writing an Evaluation

There are two factors to put into consideration before writing evaluations. One of them is ensuring that evaluation argument remains objective. Objectivity is achieved by not including personal opinions in disputes. Besides, one remains objective by supporting claims with relevant facts. Also, included references need to fully support your stand. You should know that a discourse must be balanced and fair. Secondly, deciding on evaluative standards is another important factor to consider. You need to have a deeper understanding of subjects before deciding on measures to use during this analysis. Chosen standards must adequately and appropriately represent particular subjects' features, qualities, and values. Besides, when deciding on evaluation essay criteria, ensure that you focus on defending your stated thesis. In addition, have enough evidence and details to support the chosen criterion. Finally, appropriately organize your facts and make sure you have imperative and unbiased information concerning your subjects of discussion.

Evaluation Essay Outline

A clear outline provides a map of organizing ideas when you write evaluation essay. An evaluation essay outline covers at least five structured paragraphs. The first is an introductory paragraph followed by three or more body paragraphs, and finally, an essay conclusion . Below is an evaluation paper outline example under the topic of practicing vaping.

Introduction

An introduction presents subjects, hooks readers, and elaborates on topic of evaluation.
The last part of your introduction is a thesis statement, which asserts arguments, determines focus, and helps understand essays’ gist.
The body must contain a minimum three paragraphs.
Each body paragraph needs to have a criterion followed by judgment.
Support judgments with relevant evidence.
When concluding, summarize main points.
Give some food for thought.

Here’s how your evaluation essay outline look:

Introductory paragraph

Do you know that vaping is a better alternative to smoking? How is it rated?
Some notable issues with vaping include its safety, cost, and utility.
This essay discusses vaping while focusing on safety issues, incurred costs, and utility to prove how it is preferred compared to traditional smoking.

Body part

Safety: According to the British government, vaping is 95% safer when compared to cigarette smoking. Vaping is less harmful. No second-hand smoke is produced during vaping, hence the best smoking alternative.
Cost: Vaping is cheaper when compared to smoking. The price for a vape pen is almost $20. Coils and E-juice are inexpensive, unlike a cigarette carton, and can last twice longer.
Utility: From environmental health, vaping has high utility. Many places have banned cigarette smoking; thus, vaping is the best alternative. Indoors and outdoor vaping is allowed, unlike cigarette smoking, which is banned indoors.

Concluding paragraph

Vaping offers the best smoking alternative. It is of high quality, and people need to embrace it. Also, it is less costly, practical, and safer.

How to Start an Evaluation Essay

There are various steps that one can follow when writing an evaluation essay. These steps include:

Choosing a topic A topic provides credibility for opinions and gives room for a thorough analysis of essential issues. Always start an evaluation essay by choosing an appropriate subject. You must be familiar with and have in-depth knowledge of a chosen theme to avoid misleading and losing readers. Ensure it is well-engaging for both the readers and you.
Thesis statement development Coming up with a thesis statement is the second step, actual writing starts here. Thesis statements define main purposes of evaluative essays. Besides, they offer directions for distinguishing criteria from the examples provided. Use only relevant information when writing thesis statements.
Criteria determination A third step to consider when preparing evaluation is thinking about criteria. Assess if evaluating a chosen topic is difficult or easy. In case of problematic topics, subdivide them into various points to make it easier.
Conduct research and obtain supportive evidence You need to support your opinion with logical and physical facts, or else it will remain invalid. Your readers must make sense of your proof and have opportunities to use those facts to make their assumptions. After this step, you can start composing your essay.

How to Write an Evaluation Essay

Several steps exist that one can follow during evaluative writing. The first step in how to write an evaluation is to decide on a particular subject you wish to assess, followed by coming up with criteria you will use. Besides, develop solid arguments backed up with evidence. Also, create an outline, and start writing. Once you complete your writing, proofread your work. The steps below describe the chronological order of writing your essay.

1. Decide on What You Want to Evaluate

The first step when writing this essay is deciding on a topic you will assess. During writing to evaluate, choose a subject you understand better so that you have enough facts to support or oppose it. The chosen issue needs to be engaging to your readers, otherwise yo may lose your audience. Besides, when selecting a theme, ensure it is interesting in general to avoid boredom. Also, a chosen subject needs to be relevant to keep the readers informed about current trends and new developments. The majority of your audience must be aware of the concept. Always ensure that chosen topics are specific and not generic.

2. Find Criteria for Evaluation Essay

Once you discuss a subject, you must come up with criteria for essay evaluation. At this point, turn your opinions into assessments to help you define a chosen subject. You may use different ways to find criteria on how to do an evaluation paper. For instance, you can focus on a chosen characteristics of a topic to help you develop standards. Besides, you might assess the relevance of that topic and decide whether it is good or bad for your readers. Also, focusing on the impacts of subjects helps find standards when evaluating. Researching positive or negative impacts of the topic helps in mastering what and how to evaluate in an essay. Also, you may find criteria by focusing on the effectiveness of that subject, whether it is successful or not. Apart from that, one may focus on the morals or aesthetic standards of a particular subject to develop measures to discuss.

3. Come Up With an Evaluation Argument

Reader understands your decision by following the argument. Evaluative arguments refer to claims concerning the quality of particular subjects being assessed. This argument will always rate subjects as either negative or positive. With this rating, one can think of subjects as harmful or helpful, bad or good. An argument in evaluation essay defines and supports criteria. A judgment always elaborates and explains reasons for choosing particular standards despite controversy. Evaluation argument essay assesses subjects depending on chosen measures. Considered factors include practicability, aesthetics, and ethics. Make sure to determine which standards will convince your audience. Effective development of arguments starts by creating an evaluative thesis statement: take position, develop criteria, and find out if topic meets standards. For instance, when evaluating meal’s quality, you may say:

Meal’s strength depended on its presentation, it was enticing, and its outlook was appropriate.

Another example could be:

Meal’s weakness was in overcooking, as its flavor became less pronounced.

Additionally, another example of a subject could be practicing vaping. In such case, an evaluation argument example will be:

Vaping is safe, inexpensive, and highly practical when compared to cigarette smoking, and due to these reasons, it is a recommendable practice for traditional smokers who wish to break old habits.

4. Create an Evaluative Essay Outline

After choosing a discussion topic, one can create an outline for essay . Outlines start with the development of thesis statements, followed by a list of main ideas and a conclusion. For this essay type, outlines require a minimum of five paragraphs. The first paragraph of the evaluation in writing is introduction that ends with a thesis statement. An introduction is followed by at least three body paragraphs and a conclusion. Outlines are important as they form a basis for thoughtfully constructing ideas. Also, they help in organizing your points sequentially for them to remain orderly. In addition, they are useful in picking relevant information, providing steady foundation when starting to write. Thus, it is worth noting that outlines form a crucial part of these essays, and they give a sketch of writing.

5. Write an Evaluation Paper

When you write evaluative papers, ensure you follow everything stated in your outline. The sections discussed below will help you understand how to write evaluation:

Introduction When writing your introductory paragraph, ensure it engages you and your readers. Introduce subjects by capturing the reader’s attention. Elaborate on selected subjects, their influence, and reasons for assessing those topics. Be clear with chosen criteria you will be discussing. Generally, when writing your introductory paragraph, provide your entire subject overview.
Thesis statement The last sentence of an introduction is a thesis statement. It tells your readers what they should expect from evaluation essay and its purpose. Include evaluative arguments that rate subjects either positive or negative with supportive facts. A good evaluation thesis example must include all the stated parts.
Body A body is commonly the lengthiest part in this type of writing. You must develop a minimum of three body paragraphs in your evaluation paper. When writing body paragraphs, always use transition words while moving from a thesis statement to the first reason and other successive reasons. During evaluate writing, all body paragraphs must start with topic sentences, which inform your reader about your opinion. After stating topic sentences, write your criteria. A criterion will elaborate on the standards of a topic you are discussing. When you are done with it, provide judgments. Judgments must elaborate whether the standards of subjects were met or not. Thereafter, provide evidence supporting your argument. Following that, mention any objections about your judgment, then finalize by refuting those claims. Repeat all these steps for each body paragraph. Ensure you remain relevant in all the paragraphs to avoid losing your readers.
Conclusion A conclusion is the final evaluation paragraph. When concluding, start by restating your thesis statement and follow by summarizing and reflecting on major points.

6. Proofread Your Evaluation Essay

When you complete your evaluation writing, the last step is proofreading and revising your work. Reading through your work helps improve your paper's quality and remove mistakes. Besides, it enables you to locate and correct inconsistencies in your text. Also, when you edit your work, you ensure that the ideas of your paper are well-defined. Revising your work helps in assessing if the content was appropriately conveyed. Also, it guarantees that sentences are grammatically appropriate by correcting typing and spelling errors to avoid readers’ confusion. Finally, you should read through your work critically and develop better ways of improving clarity, good structure of sentences, and entire effectiveness.

Evaluative Essay Structure

There are various examples of evaluation essays format. These formats include:

Chronological structure It is used when describing events based on how they happened in an orderly manner, starting from the earliest to the last, like when evaluating current or historical events. Chronological essay structures are more descriptive because they are detailed.
Spatial structure In contrast to previous type, this one is used when presenting details of particular subjects depending on their location in space. A spatial essay form is used when describing an item like architecture or art depending on how they appear when observed. Something else that people need to understand is that it is easy to remember a spatial essay structure because physical location is used when describing subjects.
Compare and contrast structure Compare structure is used when exploring existing similarities between subjects, while contrast structure exists for discussing differences between items. Mostly, subjects discussed in compare and contrast papers fall under the same category; however, there may exist exceptions to this rule.
Point-by-point format structure This is a subtype of compare and contrast essay that provides a general view of individual items being analyzed. This essay type compares a set of subjects because paragraph arrangement depends on main points and not by topic. Each paragraph discusses the main point and include subjects as they relate to each main point.

Evaluation Essay Example

There are millions of evaluative essays samples posted online. These examples offer impressive descriptions of evaluative essays with all the key steps to follow and will help you polish your skills when writing this paper. However, not all of the examples posted online are reliable. Therefore, the only preferred evaluation essay sample that students can use must come from peer-reviewed sources. Essay types from scholarly sites are written by reputable authors who meet all required standards; moreover, you can easily find an excellent book on this subject with appropriate examples. Attached are evaluation essays samples from credible writers.

Tips on How to Write Evaluation Essay

For one to write perfect essays, there are some helpful tips you may follow. Following these points will help you produce impressive evaluation and your readers will enjoy. Some of those tips when writing an evaluation essay include:

Carefully read certain materials while making notes and analyzing content.
Read through each paragraph before transitioning to another section.
Avoid leaving out negative aspects, but try to discuss both pros and cons of your subjects.
When reading other’s evaluative essay, analyze each paragraph and notice the authors’ mistakes: is information helpful? what can you do better?
Avoid adding minor details with insufficient supportive evidence, as they will mislead you and your readers.
Express your thoughts concisely and clearly as you peruse the written evaluation examples.
Ensure that your evaluation essay thesis is anchored to your judgment.
Write your paper with precision and attention to details while avoiding wordiness and providing enough useful information as you keenly follow the guide.
Enable your readers to feel and agree with your assessment.

Bottom Line on Writing Evaluation Essays

Understanding the text’s definition and purpose is your first step toward knowing how to write a good evaluation. Thereafter, list categories and respective things you will assess during your writing. Master the three elements of an evaluative essay and use them effectively. Your argument must be objective and help clearly decide on what criteria to use. Besides, you need to understand all sections of an outline, how to start evaluative essay, and then, follow essential steps. In addition, get acquainted with the four types of essay structure. Remember that you always can increase your experience by reading some good evaluative writing examples. Keep all these tips in mind to ensure you write a proper essay.

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FAQ About Evaluation Papers

1. what are the four components of an evaluation essay.

Introduction is the first component of evaluation essay that hooks readers, introduces the subject, and contains thesis statement.
Background information is the second component; it clarifies to readers your evaluation topic.
Criteria is the third component, which entails standards for evaluating subjects.
Conclusion is the fourth component; it restates your thesis statements and summarizes main points.

2. What to write in an evaluation essay?

There are numerous things that one can consider during essay evaluations. Evaluation writing examples and their respective criteria include:

Movies: A plot, relationship among actors, and scenes.
Restaurants: Quality of food, price, and cleanliness.
Websites: Type of content, its design, and ease of navigating.
House: Overall quality, accessibility, and cost.
Business: Market share, its strengths and weaknesses.
Social trend: Origin, overall influence, and objectives.
Leader: Overall achievements, style of leadership, integrity.
University: Offered programs, number of graduates per year, online or in-person, reputation.
Class: Methods of teaching, challenges, type of assessments.
Job: Nature of work, working hours, bosses, salary, demand.
Advertisement: Media used when advertising, effectiveness, level of convincing, level of engagement.
Speech: Type of audience, main purpose, compelling.

3. What is the difference between an evaluation and review?

Despite similarities existing between an evaluation essay and a review, the two differ. An evaluative essay focuses on deeper research and analysis of certain subjects, while a review provides a general outlook of particular subjects. Evaluative essays must have criteria that judge specific subjects, and reviews do not need criteria. In addition, under certain conditions, it is mandatory to cite sources used in writing evaluative essays, while reviews do not require references.

4. What is a good evaluative thesis example?

A good evaluative thesis must inform readers what to expect and its impact and determine an essay’s focus. Also, a strong thesis must state evaluative arguments. Here is a proper evaluation essay thesis example: Vaping is highly practical, inexpensive, and safe compared to cigarette smoking, and following these reasons, it is a recommendable practice for traditional smokers wishing to leave old habits.

Daniel Howard is an Essay Writing guru. He helps students create essays that will strike a chord with the readers.

The Evaluation Essay

Key features of a well-written paper about an evaluative essay about a film, a concise description of the subject.

You should include just enough information to help readers who may not be familiar with your subject understand it. Remember, the goal is to evaluate, not summarize.

For instance, if writing about a movie, you’d want to describe the main plot points, only providing what readers need to understand the context of your evaluation. While you are evaluating the movie, you want to try to avoid retelling the story of it.

Another thing to keep in mind is that depending on your topic and medium, some of this descriptive information may be in visual or audio form.

Clearly Defined Criteria

Since you are evaluating the subject, you will need to determine clear criteria as the basis for your judgment. In reviews or other evaluations written for a broad audience, you can integrate the criteria into the discussion as reasons for your assessment. In more formal evaluations, you may need to announce your criteria explicitly.

For instance, you could evaluate a film based on the stars’ performances, the complexity of their characters, and the film’s coherence. There are lots of other criteria to choose from, depending on your film choice.

A few things to keep in mind when coming up with your criteria:

Don’t try to have too many things to evaluate. Using three to four elements to evaluate should be enough criteria to support an overall evaluation of the subject.
Pick things relevant to evaluating your subject. For instance, if you are specifically reviewing a movie, you don’t want to include criteria evaluating the popcorn at the movie theater.
Remember, you’re going to have to define the criteria for your evaluation, so make sure you pick things you either know about or that you can learn about.

A Knowledgeable Discussion of the Subject

To evaluate something credibly, you need to show that you know it yourself and that you understand its context. Cite many examples showing your knowledge of the film. Some evaluations require that you research what other authoritative sources have said about your subject. You are welcome to refer to other film reviews to show you have researched other views, but your evaluation should be your own.

A Balanced and Fair Assessment

An evaluation is centered on a judgment. You can point out both its weaknesses and strengths. It is important that any judgment be balanced and fair. This is why it’s important to select your criteria before starting your evaluation. Seldom is something all good or all bad, and your audience knows this. If only presenting the positive or negative, your audience may feel you aren’t that credible of a source. While it may feel weird to include less-than-positive comments about something you enjoy, a fair evaluation acknowledges both strengths and weaknesses.

Well-Supported Reasons

You need to argue for your judgment, providing reasons and evidence that might include visual and audio as well as verbal material. Support your reasons with several specific examples from the film. This is also a good place to use knowledge of other movies, movie terminology, and other references to not only support your argument (aka your evaluation) but also show your ethos of the subject.

Step 1: Choosing a Topic

For this assignment, you will choose a film you have watched that was meaningful enough to evaluate. It can be one that was meaningful because it changed your perspective, for instance. You are also welcome to choose a film that was critically acclaimed, but you have objections to it. Choose something that strikes you as a film worth analyzing and discussing.

Things to consider while making this selection:

What is the purpose of your evaluation? Are you writing to affect your audience’s opinion of a film?
Who is your audience? To whom are you writing? What will your audience already know about the film? What will they expect to learn from your evaluation of it? Are they likely to agree with you or not?
What is your stance? What is your attitude toward the subject, and how will you show that you have evaluated it fairly and appropriately? Think about the tone you want to use should it be reasonable? Passionate? Critical?

What film are you going to evaluate in this essay? Make sure it is accessible to you (accessible as in you own it, you have checked it out from the library, or it’s available through a subscription you have like Netflix, Amazon Prime, Disney Plus, etc.). You will need to watch it and take detailed notes so that you have specifics, dialogue, etc., to include. So, what film will you evaluate?

Step 2: Generating Ideas and Text

Now that you know the film you want to evaluate, it’s time to watch it. Make sure you take extensive notes as it needs to be clear that you have taken the time to watch and study your film and that you have thought through not only the criteria that you want to talk about but also specific examples of those criteria.

Explore what you already know. Freewrite to answer the following questions:

What do you know about this subject?
What are your initial or gut feelings, and why do you feel as you do?
How does this film reflect or affect your basic values or beliefs?
How have others evaluated subjects like this?

Now, it’s time to identify criteria. Make a list of criteria you think should be used to evaluate your film. Consider which criteria will likely be important to your audience.

Here are ideas for specific criteria:

Evaluate your subject. Study your film closely to determine to what extent it meets each of your criteria.
You may want to list your criteria and take notes related to each one as you watch the film.
You may develop a rating scale for each criterion to help stay focused on it.
Come up with a tentative judgment. Choose 3-4 criteria to discuss in your essay.
Compare your subject with others. Often, evaluating something involves comparing and contrasting it with similar things. We judge movies in comparison with other movies we’ve seen in a similar genre.
State your judgment as a tentative thesis statement. Your thesis statement should address both pros and cons. “Hawaii Five-O is fun to watch despite its stilted dialogue.” “Of the five sport utility vehicles tested, the Toyota 4 Runner emerged as the best in comfort, power, and durability, though not in styling or cargo capacity.” Both of these examples offer a judgment but qualify it according to the writer’s criteria. Experiment with thesis statements and highlight one you want to use.
Anticipate other opinions. I think Will Ferrell is a comic genius whose movies are first-rate. You think Will Ferrell is a terrible actor who makes awful movies. How can I write a review of his latest film that you will at least consider? One way is by acknowledging other opinions–and refuting those opinions as best I can. I may not persuade you to see Ferrell’s next film, but I can at least demonstrate that by certain criteria he should be appreciated. You may need to research how others have evaluated your subject.
Identify and support your reasons. Write out all the reasons you can think of that will convince your audience to accept your judgment. Review your list to identify the most convincing or important reasons. Then, review how well your subject meets your criteria and decide how best to support your reasons through examples, authoritative opinions, statistics, visual or audio evidence, or something else.

Step 3: Organization of the Evaluation Essay

The following provides two ways to organize your document:

Black text "start with your subject" above five light blue boxes in a line connected with black arrows pointing to the next box in the line. Each box includes writing. First box, "describe what you are evaluating"; second box "state your judgement"; third box "provide reasons and evidence, discussing criteria as you apply them"; fourth box "acknowledge objections or other opinions"; "restate your overall judgement"

Step 4: Drafting

Now that you’ve watched the thing, written the notes, and collected your thoughts, it’s time to draft. Use the organizational scheme you created in Step 3 to help you create your evaluation.

Step 5: Get Feedback

Step 6: revising.

Once you’ve received feedback, if possible, read through it and then walk away from the work for a little while. This will allow your brain time to process the feedback you received making it much easier to sit back down to make adjustments. While revising, try to avoid messing with punctuation or fixing any grammatical issues. Revision is when you focus on your ideas and make sure they are presented properly, so make sure you’ve set aside plenty of time or scheduled multiple times to go through your project.

Once you’re finished with revision—everything is well defined, claims justified, and conclusions given—it’s time to edit. This is when you correct punctuation and adjust grammatical issues. During this stage, try to only focus on one or two issues at a time. Work all the way through your project looking for these two things, and then start again with the next couple of issues you may need to smooth.

Hopefully, you’ve finished all of these steps before the deadline. If you are running behind, make sure you reach out to your instructor to let them know; they may have some tips to help get you through the final push.

ATTRIBUTIONS AND LICENSE

“ The Evaluation Essay ” by Rachael Reynolds is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License and adapted work from the source below:

Adapted from “ Writing the Evaluation Essay ” by Sara Layton and is used according to CC BY-NC-SA 3.0.

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19 Evaluation Essays

Evaluative arguments center around the question of quality. Is something good? Bad? Honest? Dishonest? Evaluative judgments are also about values—what the writer thinks is important. Sometimes the writer’s values are not the same as his/her readers’ values, so he/she has to bridge the gap by showing respect for the audience’s opinions and clarifying the points that they do and don’t agree upon.

An important first step in writing an evaluation is to consider the appropriate standards/criteria for evaluating the subject. If a writer is evaluating a car, for example, the writer might consider standard criteria like fuel economy, price, crash ratings. But the writer also might consider style, warranty, color, special options, like sound systems. Even though all people might not base their choice of a car on these secondary criteria, they are still considered acceptable or standard criteria.

To be taken seriously, a writer must have valid reasons for his evaluation. These reasons are based on criteria. Imagine choosing your attire for a job interview at a very prestigious law firm. You look at the jeans and t-shirts in your closet and immediately decide to go shopping. Why? Because the clothes in your closet don’t meet the criteria for the interview.

The Purpose of Evaluative Writing

Writers evaluate arguments in order to present an informed and well-reasoned judgment about a subject. While the evaluation will be based on their opinion, it should not seem opinionated. Instead, it should aim to be reasonable and unbiased. This is achieved through developing a solid judgment, selecting appropriate criteria to evaluate the subject, and providing clear evidence to support the criteria.

Evaluation is a type of writing that has many real-world applications. Anything can be evaluated. For example, evaluations of movies, restaurants, books, and technology ourselves are all real-world evaluations.

Five Characteristics of an Evaluative Essay

by Dr. Karen Palmer

1. Presenting the subject.

Presenting the subject is an often misunderstood aspect of an evaluative essay. Either writers give too little information or too much. Presenting the subject occurs in two different places in the essay.

First, the writer should give a brief introduction of the subject in the introduction of the evaluation. This introduction occurs in the second part of the introduction–the intro to the topic. At this point, the writer should simply name the subject and give a very brief description. For example, a restaurant review should include at a minimum the name and location of the restaurant. An evaluation of a vehicle might include the make, model, and year of the vehicle and any important features.

Second, the writer should give a more detailed description of the subject following the introduction in the background section of the paper. Here the writer could give a more detailed overview of the restaurant (the type of decor, type of food, owners, history), describe the vehicle in detail, etc. Striking a balance between giving the reader the necessary information to understand the evaluation and telling readers everything is important. The amount of detail necessary depends on the topic. If you are reviewing a brand new technology or a machine, specific to your line of work, for example, you will need to give readers more information than if you are simply reviewing a restaurant or a doctor’s office.

The language used in your description can be evaluative. For example, a writer can use descriptive adjectives and adverbs to convey a certain impression of the subject, even before the claim is made.

2. Asserting an overall judgment.

The main point/thesis should be located at the end of the paper’s introduction. It should be definitive—certain, clear, and decisive. Asking a question does not pose a definitive claim. Giving several different perspectives also does not give a definitive claim. It is ok to balance your claim, though, acknowledging weaknesses (or strengths) even as you evaluate a subject positively: “While the Suburban is a gas guzzler, it is the perfect car for a large family….”

Providing a map of your reasons/criteria within the thesis is a great technique for creating organization and focus for your essay. For example, “While the Suburban is a gas guzzler, it is the perfect car for a large family because it can seat up to 9, it has a high safety rating, and it has the best in class towing capacity.” Not only does this example give a clear, balanced claim, but it also lays out the writer’s reasons upfront, creating a map in the reader’s mind that will help him follow the reasoning in the essay.

3. Giving Reasons and Support

After presenting the subject and providing readers with a clear claim, the writer must explain and justify his/her evaluation using reasons that are recognized by readers as appropriate. This occurs in the argument section of the paper and should be the most extensive part of the paper. Reasons should reflect values or standards typical for the subject. If a writer uses criteria that is not typical for the subject, he/she must be prepared to defend that decision in the essay. For example, “Buying local may not always be at the forefront of a buyer’s mind when shopping for eggs, but…” Each reason should be clearly stated as a topic sentence that both states the reason and refers back to the main claim. Going back to the suburban example, a body paragraph/section might begin with the following topic sentence: “One of the obvious reasons a suburban is great for large families is its capacity for holding that large family and all of their necessary traveling items.”

Following the topic sentence, a writer must include relevant examples, quotes, facts, statistics, or personal anecdotes to support the reason. Depending on what the subject is, the support might be different. To support a claim about a book/film, for example, a writer might include a description of a pivotal scene or quotes from the book/film. In contrast, to support a claim about gas mileage, a writer would probably simply give the information from the vehicle specifications. Support can come from a writer’s own knowledge and experience, or from published sources.

4. Counterarguing:

Counterarguing means responding to readers’ objections and questions. In order to effectively counterargue, a writer must have a clear conception of his/her audience. What does the audience already know or believe about the subject? Effective counterarguing builds credibility in the eyes of the audience because it creates a sense that the writer is listening to the reader’s questions and concerns.

Counterarguments can occur at the end of the essay, after the writer has made his/her point, or throughout the essay as the writer anticipates questions or objections. Writers can respond to readers’ objections in two ways. First, a writer can acknowledge an objection and immediately provide a counter-argument, explaining why the objection is not valid. Second, a writer can concede the point, and allow that, the subject does have a flaw. In either case, it is important to be respectful of opposing positions, while still remaining firm to the original claim.

5. Establishing credibility and authority:

A writer’s credibility and authority lead to readers’ confidence in your judgment and their willingness to recognize and acknowledge that credibility and authority. An author can gain credibility by showing that he/she knows a lot about the subject. In addition, the writer shows that his/her judgment is based on valid values and standards.

The writer’s authority is in large part based upon the background of the author—education, etc. Is the author qualified to make a judgment? For some subjects, like a film review, simply watching the film might be enough. In other instances, like evaluating the quality of newly constructed cabinets or the engine of a new car, more experience might be necessary.

The Structure of an Evaluation Essay

Evaluation essays are structured as follows.

First, the essay will present the subject . What is being evaluated? Why? The essay begins with the writer giving any details needed about the subject.

Next, the essay needs to provide a judgment about a subject. This is the thesis of the essay, and it states whether the subject is good or bad based on how it meets the stated criteria.

The body of the essay will contain the criteria used to evaluate the subject. In an evaluation essay, the criteria must be appropriate for evaluating the subject under consideration. Appropriate criteria will help to keep the essay from seeming biased or unreasonable. If authors evaluated the quality of a movie based on the snacks sold at the snack bar, that would make them seem unreasonable, and their evaluation may be disregarded because of it.

The evidence of an evaluation essay consists of the supporting details authors provide based on their judgment of the criteria.

For example, if the subject of an evaluation is a restaurant, a judgment could be “Kay’s Bistro provides an unrivaled experience in fine dining.” Some authors evaluate fine dining restaurants by identifying appropriate criteria in order to rate the establishment’s food quality, service, and atmosphere. The examples are evidence.

Another example of evaluation is literary analysis; judgments may be made about a character in the story based on the character’s actions, characteristics, and past history within the story. The scenes in the story are evidence for why readers have a certain opinion of the character.

Job applications and interviews are more examples of evaluations. Based on certain criteria, management and hiring committees determine which applicants will be considered for an interview and which applicant will be hired.

Example Outline

Thesis: McAdoo’s is a fantastic family restaurant, offering young and old alike a great atmosphere, wonderful customer service, and a fantastic menu.

Introduction
Location–New Braunfels, TX
History–old post office, restored
Type of food
Walking up to the restaurant–cool exterior
Lobby–original post office doors, etc
Tables–great decor–memorabilia from NB history
prompt, courteous service
refills, bread
taking care of complaints–all you can eat lobster out–so price reduced
land lovers
Conclusion…If you’re ever in NB, I highly suggest stopping in at McAdoo’s and absorbing some of the great old world charm with some delicious food.

Possible “Get Started” Idea

Evaluate a restaurant. What do you expect in a good restaurant? What criteria determine whether a restaurant is good?
List three criteria that you will use to evaluate a restaurant. Then dine there. Afterward, explain whether or not the restaurant meets each criterion, and include evidence (qualities from the restaurant) that backs your evaluation.
Give the restaurant a star rating. (5 Stars: Excellent, 4 Stars: Very Good, 3 Stars: Good, 2 Stars: Fair, 1 Star: Poor). Explain why the restaurant earned this star rating.

Time to Write

In this essay, you will evaluate potential obstacles to learning. Think about the health and wellness of a college student during an international pandemic. What do you need to be successful? Do you have access to resources? Are the GCC resources adequate to support the community and its students during the pandemic?

You will evaluate at least three campus resources. Your recommendation should clearly state which of the resources should be maintained, which should be improved, and which might be eliminated, if any.

Purpose: This assignment will demonstrate the understanding of how to do a thorough evaluation of an approved topic. Students will review the complex elements of the topic they have chosen. Evaluative essays call for the writer to assess a subject in light of specific and explicit criteria and to make a judgment based on the assessment.

Task: This assignment evaluates a campus resource.

Write an Evaluation Essay. For this essay, you will choose a clear topic, give a reason for the evaluation, use description and categorization, create evaluation criteria, use concrete evidence and demonstrate the “why” of your position.

Possible Topics

Some topics to consider are listed here:

Center for Learning
Writing Center
Math Solutions
High Tech 1
High Tech 2
GCC Counseling and Career Services
Fitness Center

Key Features of an Evaluation:

Describe the particular phenomenon or work in a way that the rhetorical audience will understand and value.
Present the criteria on which the phenomenon or work is to be evaluated clearly, persuasively, authoritatively, and often in an order indicating importance. Criteria can be categorized into three groups: necessary (crucial but not enough to meet your overall assessment), sufficient (meeting all of your minimum standards, including the necessary ones), and accidental (unnecessary but an added bonus to the necessary and sufficient criteria).
Include concrete evidence and relevant examples from your personal experience and research illustrate the ways (usually in the form of assertions) the phenomenon does or does not meet each evaluative criterion. These fair and balanced assertions support the thesis statement.
At least three (3) sources on the Works Cited; these could be from your personal experience, college web pages, public health information, or sources related to quality college resources.
Articulate a clear argument (usually in the form of a thesis statement) about whether or not the object or phenomenon meets the criteria on which it is being evaluated.
Demonstrate an ethical approach to the process.

Key Grading Considerations

A clear reason for the evaluation
Use of description
Categorizing
Clear evaluation criteria
Concrete evidence & Examples
A clear argument presented (Thesis)
The establishment of ethos (balanced argument)
Secure closure to the argument (conclusion)
Three (3) sources minimum
Key Features are included
One inch margins
Typed and double-spaced
The heading is double-spaced on the left side of the page (includes name, my name, class, date)
Upper right-hand corner has last name and page number (EX: Dewey 1)
The font is Times New Roman, size 12
The title is original and is centered one line under the heading
Works Cited page lists outside sources in MLA format
Descriptive Language
Correct, appropriate, and varied integration of textual examples, including in-text citations
Limited errors in spelling, grammar, word order, word usage, sentence structure, and punctuation
Good use of academic English
Demonstrates cohesion and flow
Works Cited page has hanging indents and is in alphabetical order by author’s last name

Attribution

Content Adapted from “Five Characteristics of an Evaluative Essay” from The Worry-Free Writer by Dr. Karen Palmer is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License
Content Adapted from Susan Wood, “Evaluation Essay,” Leeward CC ENG 100 OER, licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License.
Original Content contributed by Christine Jones “Time to Write” licensed under Creative Commons CC0 1.0 Universal Public Domain Dedication.

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What Is an Evaluation Essay? Simple Examples To Guide You

definition of "evaluation essay" from the article

DESCRIPTION man holding smartphone while using laptop with evaluation essay definition
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If you’ve ever had a slice of pecan pie and thought, "Wow, this is the best dessert I’ve ever had," you already have experience with the first step in evaluation. Now you just have to build out all the qualities that make that pecan pie so good (amazing crust, perfectly sweet filling, fresh pecans) and you’ve basically got a whole evaluation essay on your hands. Once you get a good handle on evaluation essays, writing one will be as easy as pie.

What Is an Evaluation Essay?

An evaluation essay is a type of essay that requires you to judge the quality of a subject, text, or body of work based on some ideal criteria that act as a point of comparison.

For example, keeping with the pie theme, what are the components that you expect out of an ideal pie? What do you think makes a good crust or filling? How does the pecan pie compare to that ideal pie?

Evaluation essays are subjective. They look at how you feel about a specific thing. However, even if it’s all based on your opinions, an evaluation essay still requires some form of contextual evidence to back up those opinions. Some people might see an evaluation essay as equivalent to a review.

What’s the Difference Between an Evaluation Essay and a Critical Analysis Essay?

At first blush, it’s pretty easy to mix up evaluation and critical analysis essays , and some teachers and instructors might conflate the two. They definitely have some overlap, so it’s understandable. They’re both a look at whether something is “good” or “bad.”

The main difference is in that word analysis . With a critical analysis essay, you’re doing a close reading of a subject or text, really getting into the nitty gritty, while also using other texts to back up your findings. For example, with a poem, you might get deep into a line-by-line reading, going into the diction, word choices, and metaphors.

An evaluation essay is a little more straightforward than that. You might naturally do some analysis, but you’re not doing a particularly close reading of the text. For example, your evaluation of a poem might look at some metaphors and word choice, but that’s all in service of saying whether that poem is good or bad.

The General Structure and Format of an Evaluation Essay

With some potential variation, you’re looking at three main components of an evaluation essay:

Your judgment/opinion
The criteria with which you are judging a subject
Evidence to support that judgment

Beyond that, you can pretty much run as far and as wide as you want with it. For a typical five-paragraph essay , you’ll cover three criteria (one for each of the body paragraphs). For longer essays, you’ll maybe look at other criteria or even consider opposing opinions.

A general evaluation essay outline might look like:

Introduce the subject that you’re evaluating.
Broadly talk about the criteria you’re using to evaluate the subject.
Present a thesis statement summing up your opinion on the subject.
What is your first criterion?
How does the subject match up to that criterion?
Provide evidence to support that.
What is your second criterion?
What is your third criterion?
Restate the thesis and your opinion on the subject.
Try to look beyond your opinion. (Could the subject be improved? Does your opinion on the subject address larger questions?)

Evaluation Essay Example

Now that you have all the basics that go into how to write an evaluation essay, you can go off and write one yourself. But don’t worry, we know that seeing one in action is a good way to get a better idea of what to do (and what not to do).

DESCRIPTION full evaluation essay example with labels
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Evaluation Essay Introduction Paragraph Example

The usual rules apply here, mainly making sure your introduction hooks in the reader. What makes that easy in this case is that you’ll be stating a judgment of some kind. Opinions almost always draw people in, but try to make that opinion a little more engaging than “this thing is good/bad.”

Showers are both a place and an activity. They are where people wake themselves up to begin the day anew or where they wash the sweat and grime of a rough day off their bodies. Showers are an essential part of basic health and hygiene. With that comes a countless array of tools for proper cleanliness, but none come quite as close as the loofa to pure perfection. Based on cleaning ability, personal comfort, and usability, the loofa is the most effective and efficient body cleaning implement in any shower caddy.

Sample Evaluation Essay Body Paragraph

Start your body paragraphs discussing the criterion that you’re using to evaluate the subject. The reader needs to know what you mean by a “good” loofa. Once you define that, you can compare the subject to that criterion and use evidence to support your judgment.

Personal comfort is an admittedly subjective quality for anyone. However, the audience has a general understanding of a comfort range. Where scrubby cloths are harsh and even painful to more sensitive skin, other washing implements feel as though they are only pushing grime around the epidermis. The loofa succeeds in its ability to create a rich lather for a smooth, satisfying feeling while still maintaining an effective cleaning ability, ensuring that a bather feels good both during and after usage.

Example of an Evaluation Essay Conclusion Paragraph

This is where you sum it all up. Conclusion paragraphs can still be tricky for even the most experienced writers. Restate your thesis (and your opinion), and try your best to think outside the bounds of just your essay assignment. Why does anything you just wrote matter, either to you personally or to the world at large?

While humble in its roots, the loofa is an ideal cleaning tool that epitomizes cleaning ability, comfort, and ease of use into one amazing package. As bathing has only grown in importance in relation to hygiene and health, technology has maintained steady in the tools involved with the process. While the loofa may see some evolution in form at some point in the future, the tool’s current iteration suggests a superior form that requires no true improvement.

Definition and Examples of Evaluation Essays

An Introduction to Punctuation
Ph.D., Rhetoric and English, University of Georgia
M.A., Modern English and American Literature, University of Leicester
B.A., English, State University of New York

An evaluation essay is a composition that offers value judgments about a particular subject according to a set of criteria. Also called evaluative writing , evaluative essay or report , and critical evaluation essay .

An evaluation essay or report is a type of argument that provides evidence to justify a writer's opinions about a subject.

"Any kind of review is essentially a piece of evaluative writing," says Allen S. Goose. "This type of writing calls for the critical thinking skills of analysis, synthesis, and evaluation" ( 8 Kinds of Writing , 2001).

Observations

"Without good reasons for liking or disliking certain things, students can never get beyond being passive receivers of marketing, fickle consumers without a basis for their opinions. Writing evaluation papers asks them to question why they feel the way they do." (Allison D. Smith, et al., Teaching in the Pop Culture Zone: Using Popular Culture in the Composition Classroom . Wadsworth, 2009)

How to Evaluate

"If you are evaluating a piece of writing, then you are going to need to thoroughly read the work. While you read the work, keep in mind the criteria you are using to evaluate. The evaluative aspects may be: grammar, sentence structure, spelling, content, usage of sources, style, or many other things. Other things to consider when evaluating a piece of writing is whether the writing appealed to its target audience . Was there an emotional appeal? Did the author engage the audience, or was the piece lacking something? ..."If you are evaluating anything else, use your head. You need to try, use, or test whatever thing you are evaluating. That means you should not evaluate a 2005 Chevrolet Corvette unless you have the $45,000 (or more) to buy one, or the money to rent one. You also need the know-how of driving a car of that power and a base of knowledge of other cars that you have tested to compare it to." (Joe Torres, Rhetoric and Composition Study Guide . Global Media, 2007)

Identifying Criteria for an Evaluation

" Make a list of prominent, widely recognized standards for judging your subject. If you do not know the standards usually used to evaluate your subject, you could do some research . For example, if you are reviewing a film, you could read a few recent film reviews online or in the library, noting the standards that reviewers typically use and the reasons that they assert for liking or disliking a film. If you are evaluating a soccer team or one winning (or losing) game, you could read a book on coaching soccer or talk to an experienced soccer coach to learn about what makes an excellent soccer team or winning game." (Rise B. Axelrod and Charles R. Cooper, Axelrod & Cooper's Concise Guide to Writing , 4th ed. Bedford/St. Martin's, 2006)

Ways of Organizing an Evaluation Essay

"One way to organize an evaluation essay is point-by-point: describe one element of the subject and then evaluate it; present the next element and evaluate it; and so on. Comparison/contrast could be an organizing structure as well, in which you evaluate something by comparing (or contrasting) it to a known item. Culinary and music reviews often use this strategy. Chronological organization can be used for evaluating an event (either current or historical). Sequential organization can be used when describing how something works and evaluating the effectiveness of the process, procedure, or mechanism. Spatial organization can be used for evaluating art or architecture in which you describe and evaluate one element of the artifact and then move spatially to the next major element to be described and evaluated." (David S. Hogsette, Writing That Makes Sense: Critical Thinking in College Composition . Wipf and Stock, 2009)
Holistic Grading (Composition)
What Is a Critique in Composition?
Critical Analysis in Composition
Critical Thinking in Reading and Composition
Topical Organization Essay
Self-Evaluation of Essays
Moving Past the Five Paragraph Essay
Audience Analysis in Speech and Composition
How to Write a Critical Essay
What Is Composition? Definition, Types, and Examples
Research in Essays and Reports
The Definition of a Review in Composition
What Is Expository Writing?
Sample Essay Rubric for Elementary Teachers
What Is an Annotated Bibliography?
Definition and Examples of Analysis in Composition

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Education and Communications

How to Evaluate Essay Writing

Last Updated: April 25, 2020 References

This article was co-authored by Christopher Taylor, PhD . Christopher Taylor is an Adjunct Assistant Professor of English at Austin Community College in Texas. He received his PhD in English Literature and Medieval Studies from the University of Texas at Austin in 2014. This article has been viewed 37,399 times.

Essays are common assignments in high school and college. If you are a new teacher trying to evaluate student essays, then familiarizing yourself with the basic parts of an essay can also be helpful. Essays are usually broken into an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion. In some cases, an essay may also need to include a works cited or reference page. If you also need to assign a grade to an essay, develop a rubric and deduct a set number of points for items that are missing, incomplete, or incorrect.

Evaluating the Thesis Statement and Introduction

Step 1 Look for an attempt to engage readers.

For example, in an essay about the first day of classes at a new school, the author might engage readers by providing a vivid description of what it was like for them to walk down the hallway for the first time.

Step 2 See if you can tell what the essay is supposed to be about.

For example, if the essay is supposed to be about gun control, then the introduction should provide context for readers about this subject. This may be in the form of facts and statistics, an anecdote, or some background information on the controversy.
On the other hand, a narrative essay on the first day of class at a new school would need to provide a scene from that experience or some kind of background information, such as why they had to start at a new school.

For example, if the topic is declining bee populations, then the author might include something about how this will affect the food supply to get readers to care about the subject.
If the essay is about a memorable family vacation, then the introduction might explain how this vacation changed the author’s perspective.

For example, a paper about the benefits of recycling might include a thesis that reads, “Everyone should recycle because we have limited resources and recycling helps to conserve energy.”
A narrative essay does not need to have an argument, but there should be a sentence that describes the main point of the essay, such as, “My family’s trip to Turkey taught me about different cultures, cuisines, and religions, and I learned so much about myself along the way.”

Reading the Body Paragraphs

Step 1 Check that the essay includes the minimum number of body paragraphs.

There would only need to be 3 body paragraphs if the essay is meant to be a 5 paragraph essay. If the essay is meant to be longer, then it should have about 2 body paragraphs per page.
Multiply the total pages of the essay by 2 and then subtract 2 (for the intro and conclusion) to find the approximate number of body paragraphs a paper should have. For example, a 4 page essay should have about 6 body paragraphs.

For example, if the topic sentence reads, “Polar bears require a large amount of food to sustain their body weight,” then the rest of the paragraph should expound upon what and how much polar bears eat.
For a topic sentence that reads, “The meal consisted of a hearty goat stew for the main course, and several traditional side dishes in a variety of colors, flavors, and textures,” the paragraph should provide additional details about the meal.

For example, if a sentence reads, “Male polar bears weight between 775 to 1,200 pounds (352 to 544 kg),” then there should be a source for this information because this is not information that most people know. [3] X Research source
On the other hand, it would not be necessary to include a source for a sentence that reads, “Polar bears are large, white bears.”

Step 4 Note the use of descriptive language.

If a paragraph is describing a person, then the author might include details about the color of their hair, the sound of their voice, and the type of clothing they wore.
For example, an effective descriptive paragraph might read, “Judy stood a whole head above me, but she also had an impressive afro that added about 6 inches (15 cm) to her height. She wore black Converse, ripped white jeans, a cherry red, v-neck t-shirt, and a silver locket that contained a picture of her father. Her voice was deep and raspy, as if she had smoked for 20 years, but she had never even had a puff.”

Step 5 Watch for transitions between sentences and paragraphs.

Sequence: then, next, finally, first, second, third, last
Cause and effect: for this reason, as a result, consequently, thus, therefore, hence
Contrast or comparison: but, however, conversely, similarly, likewise, in the same way, also
Example: for example, for instance, in fact, to illustrate
Purpose: for this reason, to this end, for this purpose
Time or place: before, after, immediately, in the meantime, below, above, to the south, nearby [6] X Research source

Reviewing the End of the Essay

Step 1 Note how the author readdresses the thesis statement.

For example, if the essay was about the benefits of recycling and why it is important to recycle, then the conclusion might include a sentence that reads, “Despite all of the benefits of recycling and how easy it is to recycle, many people still don’t do it.”
For a narrative essay that begins with a description of how nervous the author was to walk down the hall on the first day at a new school, the author could make a similar return to the introduction. The conclusion might include something like, “That first day was terrifying and walking down the hall felt like walking to my doom, but I learned that I was not the only one who felt that way.”

Step 2 Consider what kind of impression the essay made on you.

For example, at the end of a narrative essay you might be left thinking about the vivid description of a favorite family meal.
An argumentative essay may leave you thinking about the moral dilemma raised by the author regarding gun control.
An expository essay about polar bears might leave you with a new appreciation for their size and strength.

Step 3 Make sure no new information is introduced.

If the conclusion does introduce new information, note this in your evaluation.

Evaluating Cited Sources

Step 1 Check for in-text citations if sources were required.

Make sure the citations are formatted according to the style guide listed on the assignment sheet, such as MLA, APA, or Chicago Style.

Step 2 Verify that cited information is consistent with the original source.

You may not have time to do this for every single piece of evidence, especially if you have a lot of students. If this is the case, you could randomly check 1-2 pieces of evidence for each essay you grade.

If you're in doubt about a source, use the information on the works cited page to find the original source and review it.
Remember that the format should match the assigned style guide, such as MLA, APA, or Chicago Style.

Grading an Essay

Step 1 Consider how well the essay addresses the prompt or question.

Some teachers and professors require students to rewrite essays that do not satisfy the basic requirements of an assignment. If you come across an essay like this, then you might want to meet with the student to discuss their options.

Before you assign points to the criteria, rank them in order of importance for this assignment. This will help you create a points system that relates to the goal for this assignment.
It's best to give your students a copy of the rubric when you make the assignment. This allows the students to understand your grading process and expectations.
Introduction
Thesis statement
Organization
Development of ideas

Step 3 Deduct points if an item is missing, incorrect, or incomplete.

For example, if you require students to include a thesis statement in the first paragraph to outline the paper’s argument, then you might deduct 15 points if it is missing, or 10 points if it is incomplete or incorrect.

Expert Q&A

It's essential to clearly communicate your expectations to your students. Include all of the information they need to earn full credit in the assignment sheet, including your rubric. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
If you are evaluating your own essay, use the teacher’s assignment guidelines to ensure that you have included all of the required elements of an essay. Ask your teacher if you are unsure. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0

↑ https://writerscentre.yale-nus.edu.sg/resources/elements-of-a-good-essay/elements-of-a-good-essay/
↑ https://owl.purdue.edu/owl/general_writing/academic_writing/essay_writing/expository_essays.html
↑ https://www.livescience.com/27436-polar-bear-facts.html
↑ https://owl.purdue.edu/owl/general_writing/academic_writing/essay_writing/descriptive_essays.html
↑ http://web.mit.edu/course/21/21.guide/tran-cwp.htm
↑ http://core.ecu.edu/hist/zipfk/guidelines_for_grading_an_essay.htm

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Evaluation Essay

A Comprehensive Guide to Write an Evaluation Essay

19 min read

Published on: Mar 24, 2023

Last updated on: Jan 30, 2024

What is an Evaluation Essay?

Looking for evaluation essay meaning? Here is an easy meaning for you.

An evaluation essay is a type of writing which involves providing an opinion on a particular subject. This can be done in different ways and differs from all other types of essays as it requires the writer to pass judgment on their topic rather than give a fact-based report or dissertation.

The most common types of evaluation essays are critical analysis and interpretive essays. In both types, the writer evaluates a particular subject based on their own opinion or perspective and then explains why they feel that way.

The goal of an evaluation essay is to present both sides of an issue objectively and provide readers with enough information so that they can form their own opinions.

Evaluations are meant to be unbiased and should not contain any opinionated statements. They must instead only focus on facts because this will help ensure that they won't come off as personally biased, which would make them unreliable for the intended audience.

Purpose of Evaluating Writing

Why are evaluative essays assigned to the students?

The purpose of evaluating essays is to determine the quality and effectiveness of a student's writing. Evaluation helps instructors determine if students have achieved mastery level

Understanding of the material in question
Understood the main ideas or points being made,
Can effectively express their own thoughts and opinions.

Additionally, evaluation allows teachers to assess a student's ability to organize and present their thoughts in an effective and meaningful way.

How can you write the best evaluation essay? To do this you must be aware of its characteristics.

Characteristics of Evaluative Essay

There are five characteristics of an evaluative essay:

Present the subject in a descriptive and evaluative way
Assert an overall judgment by providing the reason evaluation within the thesis statement
Support your reasons and points with evidence
Provide counterarguments by responding to the opposition's objections and claims
Establish credibility and authority by providing enough knowledge on the subject

Elements of an Evaluation Essay

Before beginning to learn how to write an evaluation essay, it is must to get educated about its elements. So the four elements of evaluation essay are mentioned below along with a brief detailsâ¦

An evaluation essay should start by clearly establishing the subject that is being evaluated. This could be a product, service, person, experience, or even an event. It is also important to explain why you have chosen this particular subject and what purpose it serves.

Is the subject suitable for the assignment?
Does it present an opportunity to explore a certain topic in greater detail?

Consider these questions and make sure to provide clear answers.

The criteria you use in your evaluation will depend on what you are evaluating and for whom you are writing the evaluation. It is best to provide clear and specific criteria that you can use to judge the quality of the item or service being evaluated.

This is usually based on certain factors such as quality, effectiveness, value, and/or suitability. It is important to provide a clear definition of these criteria so that readers are able to follow your analysis.

Now it is the time to judge whether or not the standards have been achieved. Returning to our hotel example, you might start by assessing whether or not the establishment offers excellent accommodations. Is it sufficient? Or does it fall short of your high expectations? You may then move on to the other criteria.

In order to effectively evaluate the subject, it is important to gather evidence in support of your evaluation. The evidence gathered should help to explain why the criteria are relevant and why the subject is being evaluated in a certain way.

If you reach the conclusion that the quality of food does not meet expectations, be ready to provide proof for why this is so.

It's common for each paragraph in an essay to address a different topic. In that paragraph, you should thoroughly explain the criterion, make relevant judgments, and provide supporting evidence.

Evaluation vs. Review - What are the Differences?

Some students have a misconception about how to write an evaluation paper. They think that it is the same as writing a review, but in reality, there are many differences between the two types of papers.

Although these two types of papers do have some similarities, there are also a number of differences between them that set them apart.

Below are the key differences between these two.

Evaluation Essay Outline

Understanding the evaluation essay format and creating an outline is important.

The essay format is based on the 5-paragraph structure that contains one introduction paragraph, three body paragraphs, and one conclusion paragraph.

Here is how to make an outline of your evaluation essay.

Introduction - Introduce the main theme or topic of the essay. Start the paragraph with a hook sentence and pique the readersâ interest.
Thesis Statement - Create a brief thesis statement and add it at the end of the introduction.
Body Paragraphs - Add at least three paragraphs in this section. Each explains one idea and gives supporting evidence to back them. You can also add more paragraphs if there is scope for it.

Each paragraph will follow the following structure.

Supporting Evidence
Opposing Views

It is important that you add all these things into your essay so that your evaluation presents and explains a complete idea.

Conclusion - Restate your thesis statement here and explain the main points. However, keep everything brief and to the point.

This outline will be helpful for you when you write your evaluation essay. Follow it carefully, and you will have your essay done in no time.

If you need more help, check out this outline template.

Evaluation Essay Outline Template

How to Start an Evaluation Essay?

Here are the essential steps to start your evaluation essay.

1. Choose the Essay Topic Idea

When you have to write an evaluation essay, the topic must be something that will give your opinion credibility and allow for a thorough analysis of what it is about.

When choosing topics for critical evaluation essays, one should be familiar with the subject matter. Also, the quality of writing skills necessary when composing evaluative essays about particular subjects.

Therefore, choose a topic that is engaging for both you and your readers.

2. Develop the Thesis Statement

The thesis statement is a crucial element of an evaluative essay and should make it easy to evaluate the paper's arguments.

It must provide clear direction for where your evaluation stands on specific criteria so that you can distinguish between examples with differing levels of quality.

You need to be careful in citing only relevant information while supporting your points.

3. Think about the Criteria for Your Essay

Once you have chosen the topic of your evaluation essay, it is important to consider what criteria will be used to evaluate the subject.

How easy or difficult is it to explain your chosen topic or theme? If it is difficult, then you should divide it into multiple points that would help make this step easier.

Criteria should be objective and relevant. They must also be measurable so that the right kind of evidence can be collected.

4. Research and Gather Supporting Evidence

Your opinion on a topic is not valid unless you have the support of physical or logical evidence.

You need to be able to back up your statements with facts that will allow people who read them to make their own assumptions about what they are reading and come to an independent conclusion.

Research the strengths and weaknesses of the chosen idea or topic and give a clear idea about it to your readers.

Otherwise, there's no point in arguing because nobody can agree if both sides don't provide any information.

Once you have worked through these steps, you can move forward to writing the essay.

How to Write an Evaluation Essay?

Here are the steps to write an evaluation essay.

1. Create an Outline of the Essay

After choosing the topic and researching it, make an outline for your essay. Follow the outline given above and create an outline for your evaluation essay.

Make it detailed and add everything you want to discuss in your essay for a more helpful outline.

2. Write a Strong Introduction

The first paragraph of an essay should be engaging not only to keep your readers engaged. However, also to establish what you're going to tell about and why they need this information. To do so requires a hook that captures their attention, like something important or less known statement, for them to continue reading the rest of it.

3. Add a Thesis Statement

Evaluation essay thesis statement follows the introduction paragraph. It informs readers of what to expect from reading this essay and how it could affect your thinking about a certain matter.

4. Draft the Main Body of the Essay

The main body of an essay is the lengthiest part of the essay. It contains three paragraphs, but you can add more paragraphs if you feel that three paragraphs are not enough.

Start each paragraph with a topic sentence that tells the readers about one of the writerâs opinions about the topic.

However, make sure that you stay relevant and strong. If required, use compares and contrast techniques and make the reader agree with your point of view.

Add criteria, judgment, evidence, and opposing point of view for each idea. Make sure that you explain everything properly.

5. Write a Good Conclusion

The end of your evaluation essay is the conclusion part. It should be an opportunity to summarize what you have said or emphasize the most important points. You can also use this space as closure and reflection on everything discussed so far. Donât forget to restate your thesis statement and how you proved it right.

6. Edit, Revise, and Proofread

Once you are done with the writing, proofread and revise it thoroughly. Do not submit anything without proper editing and proofreading.

This final step is important if you do not want to lose your score because you did not add a âtheâ at the beginning of the sentence.

All of these steps are important for writing a good evaluation essay. Follow them carefully and craft a winning essay.

Here is an evaluation essay sample;

Evaluation Essay Examples

Here are some evaluation essay examples for students. These will help you in writing a good evaluation essay.

Evaluation Essay Example

Evaluation Essay on a Movie

Employee Self Evaluation Essay Example

Evaluation Essay Example PDF

Critical Evaluation Essay Example

Source Evaluation Essay Example

Evaluation Essay Topics

Here are some interesting evaluation essay topics that will help you write a good essay in no time.

Evaluate the role of smartphones in redefining long-distance communication.
How does social media affect our personal relationships?
What is the effect of the internet on the learning process of the students?
Analyze the advantages and disadvantages of distance learning programs.
How do peer mentoring and tutoring affect learning?
How important is physical education in high schools?
Evaluate the reasons behind global warming.
Digital vs. Physical Textbooks: Which one is a better option for schools?
Analyze a historical movie and discuss its main themes.
Evaluate multiple works of the same writer and draw similarities between them.

Grading Rubric

Understanding the key grading considerations of a grading rubric is essential for evaluation essays.

Here are some important factors that instructors typically consider when grading evaluation essays.

Evaluation Essay Writing Tips

Here are some helpful and easy-to-follow tips for writing a perfect evaluation essay.

Read the given material carefully and make important notes while reading and analyzing it.
Read each of the paragraphs carefully before transitioning to the next section.
Do not discuss points that only you find interesting; instead, choose something that will interest your readers.
Do not leave negative aspects but discuss both the advantages and disadvantages of the said topic
Understand the pros and cons of the chosen topic.
Maintain a consistent tone throughout the essay.
If evaluating a book or an article, notice the mistakes of the author and discuss them.
For a better evaluation, it is important to discuss the emotions that you may have while reading the work.
Do not add too many minor details and things that could not be backed with proper reasoning.
Read other reviews but try to maintain your own and unique tone and voice in it.
Express your thoughts clearly and concisely.

We hope you now understand what an evaluation essay is and how to write a critical evaluation essay.

This is not all! We have also brought a helpful video for you to understand evaluation essay. So donât forget to watch this:

To sum up,

An evaluation essay is different from other essays. It requires you provide opinion on the subject instead of factual information or simply reporting findings.

By reading our helpful guide, we hope that you have gained an understanding of the basics of evaluation essays and how to create them. So get started with your writing!

Although, if you're looking for someone who can help write an evaluative essay, visit out evaluation essay writing service now.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the purpose of an evaluation.

An evaluation is a systematic method that gives insight into the effectiveness of programs, practices, or initiatives. The information gathered can be used to make adjustments for these things to work better and achieve their goals.

What are the four types of evaluation?

Here are the four types of evaluation:

Summative Evaluation

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Tips and advice for evaluation in essays

Evaluation is an important component of an advanced essay. It requires the ability to look at facts, arguments and analysis, with a degree of critical distance. Evaluation involves:

Looking at what other factors may affect the outcome.
Time lags involved.
How it might depend on other issues, e.g. elasticity of demand
Why the original statement may be incorrect.
How significant is a factor?

Which questions need evaluation?

Questions which require evaluation usually have these words a the start:

To what extent

Examples of Evaluation

1. How reliable is the data?

For any essay, you will be using a variety of sources. For example, an essay on trades unions may include information from the TUC. It is good to give data from a source like TUC. However, a valid evaluation technique is to question the reliability and independence of your source.

For example, it is quite likely that the TUC will choose statistics that are more advantageous to workers. Business organisations, e.g. CBI on the other hand, are likely to give alternative sets of data which is more favourable to their point of view.

Therefore, examine the likelihood of bias in data and resources for the essay.

2. Short run and long run?

The effects of a decision can be quite different in the long run. For example, suppose you had an essay, which examined the impact of an increase in tax on petrol. The obvious answer is to say: “very little, demand for petrol is inelastic”

However, it would be evaluative to say; “However, over time demand may become more elastic. After a couple of years people may find alternative ways of driving.

3. It depends on other factors

When looking at the effect of one outcome, it is worth bearing in mind it is often difficult to isolate other factors. For example, if we were looking at the impact of a rise in interest rates. The effect would usually reduce consumer spending. However, there are many other factors that can affect consumer spending. If confidence was high, for example, consumer spending may not fall at all – despite the increase in interest rates.

4. Look at both points of view

In subjects like economics, history and politics there are usually several different viewpoints. It is important to give them all consideration, even if we don’t necessarily agree with them. For example, if we look at the impact of a rise in government spending, a Keynesian might say this will increase growth; a Monetarist, on the other hand, may argue higher spending merely causes crowding out. Therefore, there are two different possibilities.

5. State of economy

The impact of a devaluation in the currency depends on the state of the economy. If the economy is experiencing inflation and is in a boom, a devaluation could worsen the inflation. However, in a recession, a devaluation can help boost exports and there is likely to be limited impact on inflation.

The effect of a fall in AD depends on state of economy

6. How significant is a factor?

A recession in France would lead to lower UK exports to France. France is an important trading partner, however on its own French exports are only a relatively small % of UK AD. If the rest of the Eurozone was growing, and it was just France in recession, it is unlikely to have much impact on the UK economy. However, if the whole global economy was in recession, this would be much more significant and likely cause a recession in the UK too.

7. Different perspectives

As we mentioned in, UK economic growth in the past four years. How you interpret data is important.

If you showed a graph of UK economy growth since 2013 Q1 – it would give quite a favourable impression of economy.

Including figures from 2011 Q1 gives less favourable.

If we look at this graph, it shows the UK economy still has a large negative output gap.

The important thing is that statistics may only tell part of the story. Just because an economy like Spain grew in the last quarter – doesn’t necessarily mean their economy is doing very well.

More on macroeconomic evaluation – discuss the impact of a cut in interest rates

Example question

Discuss impact of the MPC cutting interest rates from 5% to 4.5%?

Lower interest rates make it cheaper to borrow and therefore encourage consumer spending. Cheaper borrowing also encourages firms to invest. With an increase in C + I, we see a rise in Aggregate Demand and therefore we can expect higher economic growth and higher inflation.

Examples of Evaluation of this question

In theory, lower interest rates will increase spending. However, commercial banks may not pass the base rate cut onto consumers. This happened during the credit crisis because there was a shortage of cash. Therefore, banks were reluctant to lend – they needed to improve their balance sheets. Therefore, even though the MPC cut base rates in 2008-09, consumers may not notice lower interest rates and therefore, there was little if any increase in consumer spending. This explains why the interest rate cut of 2009, failed to cause a strong economic recovery.
Lower interest rates may not increase economic growth because other aspects of the economy are doing badly. For example, falling house prices are causing a decline in consumer wealth and confidence. Therefore, despite lower interest rates, falls in house prices are offsetting the potential boost to spending from lower rates. Also, in 2009-11, we experienced a global recession. The recession in the Eurozone caused lower exports and therefore the cut in rates could be insufficient given the fact other aspects of AD are being reduced.
The cut is only very small. 0.25% is probably insufficient to have much effect especially given problems already mentioned. However, you could argue the UK is sensitive to interest rates because of the number of variable mortgages. Even a 0.25% cut in rates can increase disposable income for people with large mortgages. (this is what you might call double evaluation, evaluation of the evaluation)
The cut will take time. A cut in interest rates will not boost spending immediately. For example, It will not affect people on a fixed-rate mortgage for about 2 years. Therefore, after a cut in interest rate, we may not see the boost to spending for up to 18 months; this makes monetary policy much more difficult.

Further resources for Economic Essays

Exam tips for economics
Model economics essays

Microeconomic evaluation
Tips for writing economic essays

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How to write an evaluation essay with examples

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The first thing to be clear with about writing an evaluation essay, or any kind of writing actually, is getting to understand the main point of this type of essay. The evaluation essay is an opportunity for you to give your profound opinion about certain things.

Evaluative essay. What does it mean?

An evaluation paper is a kind of essay writing, where you deliver your argumentative point of view in certain issues using the proved facts, quotes, researches, etc. However, even though the evaluation essay should contain your point of view, all the facts and augments have to be delivered objectively and your personal opinion can only be given at the very end as a summary of everything you have written.

How to start an evaluation essay?

First things first, think of the possible topic for your essay. Keep in mind that the evaluation essay requires a special kind of topic. It has to be an issue, an event or someone`s doing that is now very much on-air or makes a strong impact on your life. For example, if you write an evaluation essay about world politics, it can be something like: «Brexit. Yes or No?».

Easy steps for writing hook evaluative essay

Another important thing about a good evaluative essay is the hook, something at the very beginning that will convince the readers to spend 30 minutes of their precious time to read your essay. In the search for example we can go once again back to the issue ob Brexit. Imagine we are talking about the evaluation essay called «Brexit. Yes or No?». The first sentence here can be something like: «Some experts claim that Brexit can turn into the world catastrophe…». It is a strong hook, which will make people wonder, why can it be so.

Choosing a Topic

It is the head of everything! It should be exited, and the fundamental criteria you must be interested in it. Moreover, it should be actual and correspond to you acknowledge in the area.

Thesis statement

We have already mentioned that the thesis has to involve real information with no fake of fiction, only something that can easily be checked. Besides, they have to be put in the right order so that one paragraph would glide to the next one without confusing the reader in any way.

Criteria for evaluation essays

What is also vital to mention here is the criteria for your evaluation essay. This means that to give the reader the right understanding of the issue, you should add a few words about the ideal way for the process to develop. Basically — how should it have happened in an ideal way?

For example, if we are talking about the advantages and disadvantages of running. Here we can say that it can have a bad impact on your knees, whereas in ideal, running should only help your body to get healthier and more athletic.

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Evaluation essay outline

As step two, we always recommend starting with the outline. No matter what kind of writing are you working at, it is always a good idea to start by creating an outline of your future essay. This is a chance for you to carefully think of what arguments and facts are going to work best for your topic and in what order should they be given so that they appear to be relevant and logical.

Introduction: the idea of your evaluation essays

Few words about the Evaluation Essay format. Whether it is APA or other, it is incredibly important to watch the structure in the evaluation essay in order not to mess both the reader`s understanding of the issue and your own. For this reason, try to give the idea of your evaluation essay in the way that it would not let anyone pass by your essay.

You are writing about the new trend of distance learning in the world`s most famous universities, your introduction could sound like: «The world`s most famous universities like Harvard and Oxford are now following the trend of the distant studying. This concept of education means that the students can study from any corner of the world by using computers and the Internet. Can this become a threat to the quality of education?»

Body: explain your thesis

Be careful with the language you are using. One of the evaluative essays`s goals is to explain some complicated things easily, so try not to use any complicated words or terms. If you cannot avoid using them, please make sure you explain their meaning in the text.

Last but not the least, always remember that your ideas have to be crystal clear to the readers, do it can be a good idea to reread, first our outline and then the entire essay, to make sure you have delivered all your ideas in the right way and the reader is not likely to have a hard time understanding them.

Conclusion

The conclusion of any type of writing is a short summary of everything you discussed in your essay, yet as we have already mentioned, the evaluation essay has to also involve your own opinion about the issue you were talking about. The best way to express it is through the conclusion.

If we are continuing to talk about the distant studying at Harvard and Oxford, we can finish the essay this way: «To summarize, the distant studying is a very convenient way of getting the education. It sounds like the dream come true when you can work, travel, stay in any corner of the world and learn with the help of the Internet without being attached to the building, that inhabits your University. However, it can make a bad influence on the quality of education the universities provide. I personally think, that the quality of education you are getting depends, mostly on you, your wish and motivation, whereas the concept of distant studying gives us an opportunity to get the education in the most prestigious universities without spending a lot of time collecting documents to get the student visa, spending money for home rental and transport, but with the precious opportunity to see the world and to gain the working experience.»

How to connect the introduction and conclusion.

Another important thing about the conclusion is to make sure it strictly correlates with the introduction. As we have shown in the examples of distance learning.

At the beginning of the essay, we say that there is a trend of distant studying, the most famous universities in the world are now beginning to provide opportunities to study online. However there are doubts about the quality of education, this kind of studying provides.

In conclusion, we briefly repeat the advantages and disadvantages of distant studying and give our personal opinion on the matter.

Get free examples of evaluation essays

Basically, every piece of news on the media can be considered as, more or less, a piece of an evaluative essay. You are told about some things that are now going on, be it the adoption of the law or the opening of the electrical vehicle exhibition. Take some time to open the newspaper or watch the news and try to analyze the way they deliver the news itself, give the comments of the experts in the field, participants, how they give the arguments from different angles both positive and negative. You will be devoted enough to take notes of that news, you are likely to get the classical outline of the evaluative essay.

We hope you have got all your answers about how to write an evaluation essay in this article. If not, we will be happy to get feedback from you. Our hearts will be melting with joy if you check out more articles on our website assignmentpay.com .

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157 Quality Evaluation Essay Topics (Template)

This article provides over 150 evaluation essay topics. Follow these steps to select your topic and start writing your essay. You can navigate to each point in the post, or scroll down to browse the whole post:

Step 1: Choose a Topic

Step 2: Create an Evaluation Criteria for your Topic
Step 3: Use my Essay Template to write your Essay

Politics and Economics

Music and Art

Famous People

Social Theory, Sociology and Philosophy
Social Services
The Environment

Media and Literature (Books, Movies, Television, Social Media)

You might want to write about one of these topic ideas if you’re studying literature or English studies, or intending to study literature at school, college or university level. Here are some media and literature topics to examine for some good evaluation essays:

the moral messages in a book.
the educational value of a book.
the suitability of a book for a certain age group.
the entertainment value of a book.
whether a book has withstood the test of time.
whether a movie adaptation on a book does the book justice.
the merits of moving from paper books to eBooks.
the suitability of a movie for children.
the political, social, or moral messages in a move.
how a movie has withstood the test of time.
the quality of acting, producing and directing in a movie.
whether a movie should have won an Oscar.
How realistic animations or special effects are within a movie.
whether the sequal to (The Matrix, Toy Story, Hunger Games, etc.) is as good as the original.
the addictiveness of TV shows.
If acting on a TV show is better or worse than another show.
the messages in plot lines in a TV show.
how well a TV show reflects real life.
the impacts of Television on adolescents’ tastes.
whether Television continues to have relevance to people’s lives in 2019.
how Television creates shared sense of community and national identity within a society.
whether a nation should have a government paid television station like BBC (UK), CBC (Canada) or ABC (Australia).
Whether social media has been good or bad for society.
Whether children should be exposed to social media.
If social media should be regulated by the government.

I’ve found my topic. Take me to Step 2.

Restaurants and Food

An evaluative essay on restaurants and food is common in high school when learning critical writing. You could evaluate:

How good the service is in a restaurant.
the breadth and suitability of a menu in a restaurant.
the restaurant’s business model.
the health of a restaurant’s offerings.
the restaurant’s environment and atmosphere.
the health of the average American diet.
the merits of vegetarianism.
the merits of veganism.
the merits of an all-meat diet.

People studying urban planning, engineering or economics may be asked to write an essay on transport. Here are some evaluative topics to consider for you. You could evaluate:

the speed and efficiency of transportation in your local area.
the cost effectiveness of transportation in your local area.
the quality of a car based on categories like value for money and build.
the quality of an airline service based on categories like seat comfort, service and speed.
the efficiency of a train service between two cities.
Whether road repairs in your local community made driving safer.
the potential of electric cars for taking over internal combustion engine cars in the next 10 years.

Students studying meteorology , agricultural studies or atmospheric sciences might be asked to write a topic on weather patterns. Here are some ideas of evaluative essays on this topic. You might want to evaluate:

the accuracy of a weather prediction service in your local area.
the suitability of weather conditions for agriculture in your local region.
the impact of extreme weather events on people in your local community.
how seasons impact upon people’s moods.
how much El Nino and El Nina weather systems impact a city.

Students studying a range of topics including ICT, cultural studies, education studies and social sciences might be asked to write on a topic on technology. Here’s some ideas for you. You could evaluate:

the impact of Facebook on society.
how internet has changed the world.
the reliability of internet connection in a certain country.
Whether smart phones have made life better.
the addictiveness of games on children.
whether technology has made learning better, more inclusive and easier.

Urban planning, politics and local government majors often look at cities and how they’re built. Here are some possible topics for you to cover. You might want to analyze:

Whether buses or trains are better for transit in your city.
what makes a city ‘liveable’.
the impact of your city on the nation’s culture and economy.
How good is the the nightlife in your city.
How good are the the restaurants in your city.
the local government in your city.
whether living in the city is good for people’s lives.

Education, School, College and Universities

Students studying education studies or teaching will be asked to write an evaluative essay at some point in your degree. You might also need to evaluate a course you recently took. Here’s some ideas. You could evaluate:

whether a course had practical implications for your life.
the value of teaching in a particular course.
the value for money of the course.
how well technology was used to teach the course.
whether the course could have been taught in a different format (online, on-campus, etc.)
the usefulness of resources provided in the course.
the teaching theories employed in a course, and whether they were appropriate.

Similarly, students considering going to a particular university may need to write an evaluation of a university or university education in general. You may also be asked to write on educational issues in a general education studies degree. Here’s some ideas for you. You might want to assess:

the strengths and weaknesses of a local university’s football team.
the value for money of a local college.
whether university is worth the money for young people.
the impact of compulsory school uniforms on children’s education (see more: 35 Pros and Cons of School Uniforms ).
whether a particular degree / major has decent career prospects.
the availability of public transit to or from a local school.
the usefulness of humanities degrees to society.
the usefulness of science degrees to society.
whether trade schools should be made free for all.

Students studying sport sciences, kinesthesiology , or sports journalism may be asked to write an evaluative essay. Here’s some ideas for you. You could assess:

the accuracy and biases of a sports broadcast.
the impact of your favorite sports on people’s mental health.
the impact of a particular sport on a person’s physical health.
the value of a sports team for community building.
the effect of recent rule changes on a sport.
the line-up of sports in the Olympics and whether it improves the games.
the strength of a current sports team line-up.
the quality of a ground on which a sport is played.
the impact of sports stars as mentors on children.
whether sporting events should be played on religious or public holidays.
how well a particular sport helps students develop problem solving skills.
If half time entertainment at the Superbowl is better than it was in previous years.

Popular Culture

Popular culture is a topic commonly studied in cultural studies, media studies and communications degrees. However, you might also be asked to cover this in a general social sciences course or a general high school essay. Here’s some ideas for you. You could start with ‘Write an Analysis of…”

whether Miley Cirus is a good influence on young people.
the impact of K-Pop on western culture.
the impact of Hollywood movies on world cultures. Is this Americanization of the world a positive or negative?
the impact of Bollywood on western culture.
how YouTube has influenced youth subcultures .
the impact of Rue Paul’s Drag Race on LGBT awareness in the United States.

Students studying political sciences or economics will likely be asked to write a research paper that critically evaluates a topic throughout their degree. Social studies students in high school will also be called upon to write an evaluative essay of this type as well. Here’s some ideas for you. You could evaluate:

a past president’s impact on society.
a political party’s position on the environment.
a political party’s position on the economy.
the overall value of a politician’s position for society.
the impact of the great depression on American society in the 1930s
the impact of the 2008 Great Financial Crisis on the world.
the immigration policies of the Democratic party.
whether Capitalism has been good or bad for society.
how Socialism impacts upon societies.
whether rich people should be taxed more.

This is a very common topic for critical essays in high school. You may also need to conduct an evaluative essay on travel in a course within cultural or tourism studies. Here’s some ideas for you. You could write an evaluation of:

Evaluate your favorite recent travel experience.
a group travel company’s offerings according to categories such as value for money, service and authentic experiences.
a travel destination according to factors including enjoyment, ease of travel, cultural attractions and safety.
the impact of the burning of Notre Dame in 2019 on Paris tourism.
London’s pub scene.
the value of a gap year between high school and college .
the potential impact of travel on people’s worldviews.
whether travel is worth the money.

Art and Music

Cultural studies and fine arts degrees will ask you to write many good evaluative essays. You’ll be asked to focus on famous artists and art theories. Here’s some examples to get you mind ticking. You could analyze:

the impact of Picasso on art theory.
the Mona Lisa’s ongoing relevance in the 21 st
the value of contemporary art for society.
whether a degree in fine arts is worth the money.
whether investment in the arts is a worthwhile way of spending public tax money.
the merits of calling Banksy an ‘artist’ rather than a public nuisance.
whether Leonardo da Vinci’s Salvator Mundi was actually worth $450 million dollars when sold in 2017.

Similarly, courses that examine musical theory, cultural studies and youth studies may ask you to write evaluative topics focused on music. Here’s some musical topics you could use in an evaluative essay. You could say “Write an evaluation of…”

whether hip hop / grunge / punk is a positive influence on youth.
the creativity of prominent themes in Top 40s country music.
the impact of The Beatles on rock music.
the impact of Michael Jackson on music.
Jay-Z’s impact on rap music.
how music impacts youth culture.

This is a very popular topic provided to middle and high school students. However, just about any college course may ask you to write on a famous person also. Here’s some ideas for you. You could “Write an evaluation of…”

your grandmother’s impact on your life.
Evaluate your favorite role model’s impact on society.
Bill Gates’ impact on society.
Martin Luthor King’s legacy.
Oprah’s potential impact on young black women.
how Joe Rogan has changed the media landscape.
the merits of Louis C. K. returning to comedy.
Trevor Noah’s role as host of The Daily Show.

Sociology, Social Theory and Philosophy

Social sciences degrees require you to write many evaluative essays. Degrees in the social sciences include sociology, psychology, cultural studies and philosophy degrees. Here’s some ideas for you. You could evaluate:

the strengths and weaknesses of Karl Marx’s approach to economic and social theory.
how social relationships have been impacted by Twitter.
whether Post-Modernism has changed the world for the better or worse.
the merits of Confucius’s philosophy.
the impact of the scientific method on the world.
whether Spinoza’s philosophy has merits in 2019.
the pros and cons of existentialist philosophy.
the impact of first wave feminism on the 20 th
the merits of Freud’s theory of child development.

Evaluation essays on religion is common in both high school and college courses. Here are some ideas for a research paper or evaluative essays on religion. You could assess:

Mohammad ’s influence on the world today.
the merits of the message of Jesus Christ in the 21 st
how Hinduism has impacted Indian culture.
whether religion has had an overall positive or negative impact on the promotion of human flourishing.
the impacts of religion’s decline in the west in the past 50 years.
whether science has made religion irrelevant.
whether islamophobia is on the rise within the western world.

Social Services (Medical, etc.)

Social services might be covered in health care, local government, criminology or sociology degrees. They may also pop up in courses covering urban planning and public health. Here’s some ideas for you. You could evaluate:

whether social safety nets are beneficial for society.
the pros and cons of the implementation of universal healthcare within OECD nations.
the impacts of your local council’s laws on homelessness upon people in poverty.
the merits of having social care provided by religious bodies rather than governmental bodies.
the impact of tolls on major highways into and out of cities.
whether continued funding of Libraries by local councils is worthwhile.
whether preventative youth programs can decrease pressure on criminal courts.

Environment

Environmental studies is a rapidly growing topic in universities. You’ll be asked to write evaluative essays throughout a range of courses on climate change, environmental management and ecosystems. Here’s some ideas for you. You could write an evaluation of:

whether the world’s governments are doing enough to prevent climate change.
the impacts of the pollution of oceans on our oceans’ ecologies.
the impacts of logging in Indonesia on Orangutans.
whether individuals’ recycling actually can have an impact on protecting natural environments.
whether wind turbines can be a genuine alternative to fossil fuels.
the impacts of the Tesla company on speeding up the uptake of electric vehicles.

Step 2: Create an Evaluation Criteria

Once you’ve selected your evaluation essay topics, you’ll now need to create an evaluation criteria. This will be the skeleton for the body paragraphs of your essay! This criteria is useful for coming up with ideas for assessing the pros and cons, or strengths and weaknesses, of a topic. Try to come up with about 5 criteria you can assess your topic on. For example, if my evaluation essay topic was on a particular type of car, I might evaluate it based on the following criteria:

Possible Criteria for an Evaluation Essay Evaluating a Car

Value for Money
Suitability for families
Fuel efficiency

Possible Criteria for an Evaluation Essay Evaluating a Restaurant

Quality of service
Food choices
Taste of Food
Food presentation

Once you’ve selected your evaluation criteria, you can write your evaluation paper by turning each point into a paragraph. For example, you’d write one 4 – 7 sentence paragraph exploring the value for money of the car, then another 4 – 7 sentence paragraph exploring the safety features of the car, and so on and so forth… until your evaluation paper is written!

Step 3: Use this Essay Template to write your Essay

In my post on how to write an evaluation essay , I provide you with an evaluation essay template. I recommend writing an evaluation essay using this template to ensure your evaluation essay is as good as possible. Here’s the Essay Template:

Remember, you should always check my advice with your teacher. If your teacher gave you a different format or doesn’t like your essay idea, follow your teacher’s advice! After all, they’re the people who will be marking your piece.

If you haven’t yet, you might want to check out my original article on evaluative essays that digs deep on what evaluation essays are and why you need to have an evaluation criteria. It goes into a lot more depth of the purpose of evaluative essays. It also has an example evaluation essay that you can check out to get an idea of how to write those body paragraphs in detail. Good luck with your evaluative essay, and I hope this post on evaluation essay topics was useful for you!

Chris Drew (PhD)

Dr. Chris Drew is the founder of the Helpful Professor. He holds a PhD in education and has published over 20 articles in scholarly journals. He is the former editor of the Journal of Learning Development in Higher Education. [Image Descriptor: Photo of Chris]

Chris Drew (PhD) https://helpfulprofessor.com/author/chris-drew-phd/ 5 Top Tips for Succeeding at University
Chris Drew (PhD) https://helpfulprofessor.com/author/chris-drew-phd/ 50 Durable Goods Examples
Chris Drew (PhD) https://helpfulprofessor.com/author/chris-drew-phd/ 100 Consumer Goods Examples
Chris Drew (PhD) https://helpfulprofessor.com/author/chris-drew-phd/ 30 Globalization Pros and Cons

Education Standards

Wyoming standards for english language arts.

Learning Domain: Writing

Standard: Write arguments to support claims in an analysis of substantive topics or texts, using valid reasoning and relevant and sufficient evidence.

Standard: Write routinely over extended time frames (time for research, reflection, and revision) and shorter time frames (a single sitting or a day or two) for a range of tasks, purposes, and audiences.

Standard: Introduce precise, knowledgeable claim(s), establish the significance of the claim(s), distinguish the claim(s) from alternate or opposing claims, and create an organization that logically sequences claim(s), counterclaims, reasons, and evidence.

Standard: Use words, phrases, and clauses as well as varied syntax to link the major sections of the text, create cohesion, and clarify the relationships between claim(s) and reasons, between reasons and evidence, and between claim(s) and counterclaims.

Standard: Establish and maintain a formal style and objective tone while attending to the norms and conventions of the discipline in which they are writing.

Standard: Provide a concluding statement or section that follows from and supports the argument presented.

Standard: Introduce a topic; organize complex ideas, concepts, and information so that each new element builds on that which precedes it to create a unified whole; include formatting (e.g., headings), graphics (e.g., figures, tables), and multimedia when useful to aiding comprehension.

Standard: Develop the topic thoroughly by selecting the most significant and relevant facts, extended definitions, concrete details, quotations, or other information and examples appropriate to the audience’s knowledge of the topic.

Standard: Use appropriate and varied transitions and syntax to link the major sections of the text, create cohesion, and clarify the relationships among complex ideas and concepts.

Standard: Use precise language, domain-specific vocabulary, and techniques such as metaphor, simile, and analogy to manage the complexity of the topic.

Standard: Provide a concluding statement or section that follows from and supports the information or explanation presented (e.g., articulating implications or the significance of the topic).

Standard: Engage and orient the reader by setting out a problem, situation, or observation and its significance, establishing one or multiple point(s) of view, and introducing a narrator and/or characters; create a smooth progression of experiences or events.

Standard: Use a variety of techniques to sequence events so that they build on one another to create a coherent whole and build toward a particular tone and outcome (e.g., a sense of mystery, suspense, growth, or resolution).

Standard: Use precise words and phrases, telling details, and sensory language to convey a vivid picture of the experiences, events, setting, and/or characters.

Standard: Provide a conclusion that follows from and reflects on what is experienced, observed, or resolved over the course of the narrative.

Standard: Produce clear and coherent writing in which the development, organization, and style are appropriate to task, purpose, and audience. (Grade-specific expectations for writing types are defined in standards 1–3 above.)

Standard: Develop and strengthen writing as needed by planning, revising, editing, rewriting, or trying a new approach, focusing on addressing what is most significant for a specific purpose and audience. (Editing for conventions should demonstrate command of Language standards 1–3 up to and including grades 11-12 on page 55.)

Standard: Use technology, including the Internet, to produce, publish, and update individual or shared writing products in response to ongoing feedback, including new arguments or information.

Standard: Draw evidence form literary or informational texts to support analysis, reflection, and research.

Maryland College and Career Ready English Language Arts Standards

Common Core State Standards English Language Arts

Cluster: Text Types and Purposes.

Cluster: Range of Writing.

Cluster: Production and Distribution of Writing.

Cluster: Research to Build and Present Knowledge.

Writing the Evaluation Essay

This is a Google doc with multiple steps and resources to walk students through the writing process for an Evaluation Essay

In this tutorial, you will walk through instruction and writing steps that will lead you to an Evaluation Essay. Please make a copy of this document (File>Make Copy) and complete all of the steps below:

Sometimes it’s nice to know how your paper will be graded before you start writing. Here are the key features of a well-written paper about a film of your choosing.

From Norton Field Guide chapter 16

Step 1: Choosing a Topic

For this assignment, you will choose a film you have watched that was meaningful enough to evaluate. It can be one that was meaningful because it changed your perspective, for instance. You are also welcome to choose a film that was critically acclaimed, but you have objections to. Choose something that strikes you as a film worth analyzing and discussing.

Step 4- Draft

Use this MLA formatted writing template linked HERE to draft out your 3 page (750 word) essay by making a copy and adding your own information. Add a link to your paper in the box below. Make sure it is set so that “Anyone with a link CAN COMMENT” Do this by clicking SHARE in the top right corner. Then click “change” under the “get link” box, and use the down arrow to change so that anyone at MHA can edit.

Step 5: Get Feedback

Step 6- Peer Editing

Go back to the course and submit your draft for peer editing. You will post your own draft, then edit two of your peers’ drafts. Read the directions carefully in the Peer Editing Forum.

Step 7: Final Paper

Once you have revised your draft, you will submit your final draft to your teacher in the course. You may also paste the draft below. Make sure it is shared so that anyone from MHA with a link can edit:

Link to the Evaluation Essay Google Doc

Evaluation Essay Assignment

Make a copy using File>Make a Copy

Course Sites

Welcome to CNDLS Course Sites

Welcome to Course Sites from the Center for New Designs in Learning and Scholarship (CNDLS)!

If you are looking for a Commons Blogs site, please email us at [email protected] .

CNDLS Course Sites use WordPress to allow for the easy creation of a course-specific site where students may publish or even create their own sites. There are two approaches, when requesting a course site:

Use one course site for you and all your students to contribute to;
Use a hub-and-spoke model where you as faculty manage one central course site, while each student owns their own site as well. Students can use their sites as a blog or ePortfolio.

These sites can be made public or private to only students and teachers in the course. Additionally, non-Georgetown users can be added to the sites.

We have created a Resources page to help get you and your students started in WordPress. You can also email [email protected] to request a consultation or schedule a class visit.

Looking for a more flexible website for your course or research? Visit Georgetown.domains .

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The Chicago Bears kicked off the 2024 NFL Draft with the No. 1 pick

The Chicago Bears kicked off the 2024 NFL Draft Thursday night with the first pick — USC star quarterback Caleb Williams. Long-suffering fans at a Soldier Field watch party were overjoyed.

A MARTÍNEZ, HOST:

The Chicago Bears kicked off the 2024 NFL draft last night with a No. 1 pick. They chose USC star quarterback and Heisman Trophy winner Caleb Williams. Long suffering Bears fans are overjoyed they may finally have a star quarterback to lead them into a winning future. Reporter Rob Salinas has reaction from Chicago.

UNIDENTIFIED CHICAGO BEARS FAN: Caleb, let's go. Caleb Williams.

ROB SALINAS, BYLINE: Bears fans gathered at Soldier Field for a draft party to celebrate what was probably the worst kept secret in the NFL. Bears fans have known for months Caleb Williams was coming to Chicago. They were so confident they started snatching up his college jersey. Longtime Bears fan Travis Armstrong (ph) was among thousands who gathered on the field and in the stands.

How long have you had a USC jersey?

TRAVIS ARMSTRONG: I rolled the dice a month ago. I felt confident with what people were saying and decided just to pull the trigger and get the jersey.

SALINAS: Ashley Gordon (ph), a season ticket holder, waited anxiously for the pick.

To what certainty? If you were in Vegas, is this an all-in situation?

ASHLEY GORDON: Yeah, and I love Vegas. And, like, I would be all in, $1 billion. It's Caleb Williams.

ARMSTRONG: Moments later, the Bears and NFL commissioner Roger Goodell made it official.

(SOUNDBITE OF ARCHIVED RECORDING)

ROGER GOODELL: With the first pick in the 2024 NFL draft, the Chicago Bears select Caleb Williams.

JARED COYLE: This is a time you'll never forget where you were as a Bears fan. This will be a moment to remember.

SALINAS: Jared Coyle (ph) was overjoyed the Bears might finally get the franchise quarterback Chicago has sought for decades.

COYLE: I think he's a guy who has a lot of talent. He has a lot of moxie that you haven't seen in Chicago. And when you look at the other top guys around the league, they have that spunk to them, that edge. That's what's going to be awesome about him.

SALINAS: Some fans voice reservations. Marcia Gordon (ph) says former Bears quarterback Justin Fields was doing a good enough job. However, she says the city will rally behind Williams.

MARCIA GORDON: We are fans, and if you actually win, we're going to jump with you. So as long as he can bring some winning to this team, which we haven't had much of, he'll be all right.

SALINAS: As for Williams, he's also known for months that the Windy City would likely be his new home. James Sweeney (ph) says he has evidence.

JAMES SWEENEY: He liked my tweet back in December about playing for the Bears when I tweeted that I've waited my whole life for a quarterback like him.

SALINAS: And the city has waited almost 40 years since their last Super Bowl championship.

For NPR News, I'm Rob Salinas in Chicago.

(SOUNDBITE OF HERB ALPERT AND THE TIJUANA BRASS' "TIJUANA TAXI")

NPR transcripts are created on a rush deadline by an NPR contractor. This text may not be in its final form and may be updated or revised in the future. Accuracy and availability may vary. The authoritative record of NPR’s programming is the audio record.

Analysis of every pick in the 2024 NFL draft

Nick Saban says a "perfect storm" led to the record-setting number of offensive players taken in the first round of the 2024 NFL draft. (1:02)

The 2024 NFL draft kicked off Thursday night, with six quarterbacks selected among the first 12 picks for the first time in NFL history. A total of 14 offensive players came off the board before a single defender was selected, the longest run on offensive players in NFL draft history.

NFL Nation's team of 32 reporters will provide insights on every draft pick throughout the three-day event.

Plus: We have updated depth charts for all 32 teams.

Jump to: ARI | ATL | BAL | BUF | CAR | CHI | CIN CLE | DAL | DEN | DET | GB | HOU | IND JAX | KC | LAC | LAR | LV | MIA | MIN NE | NO | NYG | NYJ | PHI | PIT | SF SEA | TB | TEN | WSH

Buffalo Bills

The Bills traded down twice in the first round, moving out entirely after deals made with the Chiefs and the Panthers. Buffalo is scheduled to make the first pick of the second round. Analysis of every Bills pick from Alaina Getzenberg

Miami Dolphins

The Dolphins targeted defensive help in the first round, selecting Penn State edge rusher Chop Robinson with their first pick of the event. Analysis of every Dolphins pick from Marcel Louis-Jacques

New England Patriots

The Patriots got their next quarterback at No. 3, selecting North Carolina's Drake Maye with their first-rounder. Analysis of every Patriots pick from Mike Reiss

New York Jets

The Jets got some additional help at a tackle position that has been an issue, selecting Olu Fashanu with their first-round pick. Analysis of every Jets pick from Rich Cimini

Baltimore Ravens

The Ravens are perpetually in need of cornerback help, it seems, and selecting Clemson CB Nate Wiggins with their first-round pick seemingly fills a hole there. Analysis of every Ravens pick from Jamison Hensley

Cincinnati Bengals

The Bengals got more protection for quarterback Joe Burrow in the first round, selecting Georgia tackle Amarius Mims with their opening pick of the 2024 event. Analysis of every Bengals pick from Ben Baby

Cleveland Browns

The Browns are scheduled to make their first selection of the 2024 draft on Friday, when they hold the 22nd pick of the second round. Analysis of every Browns pick from Daniel Oyefusi

Pittsburgh Steelers

The Steelers went the offensive line route for their first selection of the 2024 draft, taking Washington lineman Troy Fautanu to help protect new Pittsburgh quarterbacks Russell Wilson and Justin Fields . Analysis of every Steelers pick from Brooke Pryor

Houston Texans

The Texans are scheduled to make their first selection of the 2024 draft on Friday, where they hold the 10th pick of the second round. Analysis of every Texans pick from D.J. Bien-Aime

Indianapolis Colts

The Colts got the first defensive player of the 2024 draft -- at No. 15 overall -- when they selected UCLA edge rusher Laiatu Latu . Analysis of every Colts pick from Stephen Holder

Jacksonville Jaguars

The Jaguars made a deal with the Vikings and traded down to No. 23, where they spent their first-round pick on LSU wide receiver Brian Thomas Jr . Analysis of every Jaguars pick from Michael DiRocco

Tennessee Titans

The Titans got stronger in the trenches with their first-round pick, selecting Alabama lineman JC Latham with the No. 7 selection. Analysis of every Titans pick from Turron Davenport

Denver Broncos

The Broncos continued the historic run of quarterbacks in the 2024 draft, selecting former Washington and Auburn quarterback Bo Nix as the team's first QB choice of the Sean Payton era. Analysis of every Broncos pick from Jeff Legwold

Kansas City Chiefs

The Chiefs traded up in the first round to get some much-needed wide receiver help, selecting Texas wideout Xavier Worthy as a new target for Patrick Mahomes. Analysis of every Chiefs pick from Adam Teicher

Las Vegas Raiders

After weeks of speculation that they would select a quarterback, the Raiders -- making their choice just after six quarterbacks were taken in the first 12 picks -- claimed Georgia tight end Brock Bowers . Analysis of every Raiders pick from Paul Gutierrez

Los Angeles Chargers

After rampant speculation that they would deal their first-round pick, the Chargers instead stood pat at No. 5 and selected Notre Dame offensive tackle Joe Alt to help protect quarterback Justin Herbert . Analysis of every Chargers pick from Kris Rhim

Dallas Cowboys

The Cowboys traded down in the first round, but landed a player of need when they tabbed tackle Tyler Guyton from Oklahoma with the No. 29 overall selection. Analysis of every Cowboys pick from Todd Archer

New York Giants

The Giants didn't pick a quarterback in the first round but did identify some skill position help, selecting LSU wideout Malik Nabers as a target for Daniel Jones . Analysis of every Giants pick from Jordan Raanan

Philadelphia Eagles

The Eagles added some talent to the defensive side of the ball with their first-round pick, tabbing CB Quinyon Mitchell out of Toledo with their initial 2024 selection. Analysis of every Eagles pick from Tim McManus

Washington Commanders

The Commanders delivered on the widespread belief that they would select quarterback Jayden Daniels with their first-round pick, a splashy first selection of the Dan Quinn/Josh Harris era. Analysis of every Commanders pick from John Keim

Chicago Bears

The Bears' selection of Caleb Williams at No. 1 was not unexpected, but what Chicago would do with the No. 9 pick remained something of a mystery before the team took Washington wideout Rome Odunze to pair with Williams. Analysis of every Bears pick from Courtney Cronin

Detroit Lions

The Lions made a move up in the first round, swapping picks with Dallas to take cornerback Terrion Arnold at No. 24. Analysis of every Lions pick from Eric Woodyard

Green Bay Packers

The Packers targeted offensive line help for quarterback Jordan Love , selecting Arizona's Jordan Morgan to help them in the trenches. Analysis of every Packers pick from Rob Demovsky

Minnesota Vikings

The Vikings traded up after all -- but just one spot -- swapping with the Jets for the right to draft Michigan's J.J. McCarthy at No. 11. Minnesota made another deal later in the first, moving up from No. 23 to No. 17 in a deal with the Jaguars and using that pick on Alabama edge rusher Dallas Turner . Analysis of every Vikings pick from Kevin Seifert

Atlanta Falcons

The Falcons pulled off the true stunner of the first round, adding Washington quarterback Michael Penix Jr . to a roster that already included free agent acquisition Kirk Cousins . Analysis of every Falcons pick from Marc Raimondi

Carolina Panthers

The Panthers were not scheduled to have a first-round pick but pulled off a trade as the night was drawing to a close, securing the No. 32 pick from the Bills and using it on South Carolina wideout Xavier Legette . Analysis of every Panthers pick from David Newton

New Orleans Saints

Offensive line help for Derek Carr proved to be the Saints' top priority in Round 1, with Oregon State's Taliese Fuaga the choice at No. 14 for Dennis Allen's squad. Analysis of every Saints pick from Katherine Terrell

Tampa Bay Buccaneers

The Bucs continued the trend of NFC South teams selecting offensive line talent, with Duke center Graham Barton brought in to help protect Baker Mayfield . Analysis of every Bucs pick from Jenna Laine

Arizona Cardinals

The Cardinals got their guy at No. 4, making it official with Marvin Harrison Jr . in a move that will raise expectations in the desert. Later in the first, Arizona picked up Missouri edge rusher Darius Robinson at No. 27. Analysis of every Cardinals pick from Josh Weinfuss

Los Angeles Rams

The Rams spent a rare first-round pick on Florida State pass-rusher Jared Verse , a new playmaker for first-year defensive coordinator Chris Shula. Analysis of every Rams pick from Sarah Barshop

San Francisco 49ers

The 49ers spent the No. 31 overall pick on wide receiver Ricky Pearsall , a move that could have implications for San Francisco wideout Brandon Aiyuk 's future with the team. Analysis of every 49ers pick from Nick Wagoner

Seattle Seahawks

Seattle went defense in the first draft of the Mike Macdonald era, selecting Texas defensive tackle Byron Murphy II with the No. 16 overall pick. Analysis of every Seahawks pick from Brady Henderson

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Detroit Lions Draft Picks 2024: Evaluating Every Selection

How each of the Lions' picks fits the organization.

Author: Christian Booher

In this story:

The Detroit Lions enter Thursday's first round of the NFL Draft with the 29th overall selection. However, with the unpredictable nature of the event, anything could happen.

General manager Brad Holmes will conduct his fourth Draft at the head of the organization. With a background in college scouting, he has quickly established himself as one of the best in the business at approaching the Draft and adding talented young players to his roster.

With Detroit hosting the Draft , there's an added level of excitement without the fan base.

Last season, Holmes ' draft class put forth elite production in their rookie campaigns. Each of the team's first four picks wound up being starters and two, Jahmyr Gibbs and Sam LaPorta, earned Pro Bowl appearances.

Even further, Holmes' first class has begun to cash in on second contracts. The 2021 crop had two players, Amon-Ra St. Brown and Penei Sewell, ink extensions that reset the market at their respective positions on Wednesday.

With this Draft success, there is optimism that the Lions will continue to add young standouts to their roster as they look to compete for the Lombardi Trophy in 2024.

Entering the first round, the Lions are equipped with seven picks throughout the seven rounds. The team has two sixth-round selections while they do not currently have one in the fourth.

Follow along for instant analysis on each of the Lions' Draft picks from April 25-27, as All Lions will evaluate how each prospect fits with the Lions in the 2024 season and beyond.

Round 1, Pick 24

Terrion Arnold, CB, Alabama

How he fits: Arnold is a physical cornerback who excels in man-to-man coverage. This will go nicely with the team's man-heavy scheme under coordinator Aaron Glenn. He has excellent anticipation which lends itself to the ability to stay on top of opposing routes and in turn allows him to intercept the ball at a high rate. He led the SEC with five interceptions last season.

When he starts: The Lions added a pair of veteran corners this offseason in Carlton Davis and Amik Robertson. Both players could be day one starters, so there's not as much pressure for Arnold to start right away. However, he has all the talent to be in the mix from day one and it would be no surprise for him to be on the boundary in the season opener.

Lions' picks remaining Round 2, pick 61 Round 5, pick 164 Round 6, pick 201 Round 6, pick 205 Round 7, pick 249

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Guest Essay

The Supreme Court Has Already Botched the Trump Immunity Case

A photo illustration of the front of the U.S. Supreme Court building, but the columns in front are rearranged as an optical illusion, where the tops and bottoms of the columns fade into nothingness before reaching the other side.

By Melissa Murray and Andrew Weissmann

Ms. Murray and Mr. Weissmann are co-authors of “The Trump Indictments: The Historic Charging Documents With Commentary.”

The Supreme Court’s decision to hear oral arguments in Donald Trump’s immunity-appeal case on Thursday may appear to advance the rule of law. After all, few, if anyone, think that a majority of the court will conclude that a former president is completely immune from federal criminal liability.

But the court’s decision to review the immunity case actually undermines core democratic values.

The Supreme Court often has an institutional interest in cases of presidential power. But the court’s insistence on putting its own stamp on this case — despite the widespread assumption that it will not change the application of immunity to this case and the sluggish pace chosen to hear it — means that it will have needlessly delayed legal accountability for no justifiable reason. Even if the Supreme Court eventually does affirm that no person, not even a president, is above the law and immune from criminal liability, its actions will not amount to a victory for the rule of law and may be corrosive to the democratic values for which the United States should be known.

That is because the court’s delay may have stripped citizens of the criminal justice system’s most effective mechanism for determining disputed facts: a trial before a judge and a jury, where the law and the facts can be weighed and resolved.

It is this forum — and the resolution it provides — that Mr. Trump seeks, at all costs, to avoid. It is not surprising that he loudly proclaims his innocence in the court of public opinion. What is surprising is that the nation’s highest court has interjected itself in a way that facilitates his efforts to avoid a legal reckoning.

Looking at the experience of other countries is instructive. In Brazil, the former president Jair Bolsonaro, after baselessly claiming fraud before an election, was successfully prosecuted in a court and barred from running for office for years. In France, the former president Jacques Chirac was successfully prosecuted for illegal diversion of public funds during his time as mayor of Paris. Likewise, Argentina, Italy, Japan and South Korea have relied on the courts to hold corrupt leaders to account for their misconduct.

Because the courts have been such crucial scaffolding for democracy, leaders with authoritarian impulses often seek to undermine judicial authority and defang the courts to advance their interests. As the national-security and governance writer Rachel Kleinfeld has pointed out : “democracies have been falling all over the world in recent years. The decline has largely occurred at the hands of elected leaders who use their popularity to ride roughshod over their countries’ institutions, destroying oversight by a thousand cuts.”

Consider India, Bolivia, Hungary and Venezuela, where the erosion of judicial independence of the courts has been accompanied by a rise in all-consuming power for an individual leader.

Within our constitutional system, the U.S. Supreme Court can still act effectively and quickly to preserve the judiciary’s role in a constitutional democracy. If the court is truly concerned about the rule of law and ensuring that these disputed facts are resolved in a trial, it could issue a ruling quickly after the oral argument.

It would then fall to the special counsel Jack Smith and Judge Chutkan to ensure that this case gets to a jury. Obviously, fidelity to due process and careful attention to the rights of the accused are critical. To get to a trial and avoid any further potential delay, Mr. Smith may decide to limit the government’s case to its bare essentials — what is often called the “slim to win” strategy. And Judge Chutkan has already warned Mr. Trump that his pretrial unruly statements with respect to witnesses and others may result in her moving up the start of the trial to protect the judicial process.

Before Election Day 2024, if at all possible, voters should know if the facts of a case establish that one of the candidates engaged in an elaborate election-interference scheme in 2020.

Justice Juan Merchan, who is overseeing the Manhattan criminal trial, and the New York appellate courts offer an instructive model of fair and expeditious case management. In less than a week, Justice Merchan has seated a jury, and he and many appellate judges have quickly ruled on Mr. Trump’s efforts to thwart the start of the trial.

If the Supreme Court resolves the immunity question quickly, allowing the federal election interference case to proceed, Judge Chutkan’s case management likewise will be pivotal in dealing with the intricacies of jury selection in a high-profile case and effectively distinguishing between frivolous and meritorious defense arguments that would prolong the trial timeline. These options may seem like a long shot, but they are the ones that remain.

Courts are supposed to serve as a neutral forum for the determination of facts and the adjudication of law. And, as examples in other countries illustrate, they can be a crucial bulwark for the rule of law in precarious times.

Politics and law are often seen as separate institutions, but in fact they regularly interact within our constitutional system as checks and balances — unless, as is the case here, the court takes on an overbearing role.

The Supreme Court’s review of the immunity issue delays indefinitely a jury trial of Mr. Trump’s role in obstructing the peaceful transfer of power — and therefore risks transforming our nation into a Potemkin village of democracy that bears the surface trappings of legal institutions but without actual checks on the executive branch of government.

Melissa Murray and Andrew Weissmann teach at the N.Y.U. School of Law and are co-authors of “The Trump Indictments: The Historic Charging Documents With Commentary.” They are co-hosts, respectively, of the podcasts Strict Scrutiny and Prosecuting Donald Trump .

The Times is committed to publishing a diversity of letters to the editor. We’d like to hear what you think about this or any of our articles. Here are some tips . And here’s our email: [email protected] .

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The debate about Sonia Sotomayor is not about sexism. It’s more dire.

Some want the supreme court justice to retire so that president biden can name a replacement before... before what happens, exactly.

For the past few months there has been a stealth political campaign going on, the subject of which feels so unseemly that nearly every person publicly participating in the debate insists they would rather not be participating in it, and would, in fact, prefer the debate not be happening at all.

The question: Should Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor voluntarily retire before the next presidential election?

And, if your answer is yes, are you sexist?

And, if your answer is no, and you support liberal jurisprudence, are you a fool?

If you haven’t been following, the arguments — which have been laid forth by Josh Barro in the Atlantic , Nate Silver , Mehdi Hassan in the Guardian , Sen. Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) , and others — amount to this:

1) Sotomayor, at 69, is already several years older than the median American retirement age;

2) The justice’s Type 1 diabetes might indicate a more complicated health map than that of a typical septuagenarian;

3) In the not-unlikely event that Donald Trump wins the presidential election, and Sotomayor has to leave the court during his next term, we can presume that his replacement nominee will turn the Supreme Court into a 7-2 conservative supermajority with repercussions for decades to come.

In other words, Democrats might feel great about Sotomayor’s health and stamina now. But how much are they willing to bet that they’ll feel great about it in four or more years? (For what it’s worth, Barro et al. also make the case that a Democrat in the White House doesn’t ensure the safe passage of Sotomayor’s replacement to the high court, either: a flip of the Senate could result in a Merrick Garland redux, wherein a Republican majority refuses to confirm a Joe Biden nominee).

The counterarguments: That Sotomayor is far from the oldest judge on the court; Clarence Thomas and Samuel Alito are six and five years older. That she is below the average retirement age — which is north of 75 — of Supreme Court justices over the past century. That the diabetes argument is ableist and ill-informed. That justices are freed from term limits for a reason: They are supposed to be immune to political pressure and decide for themselves when to retire.

And finally: Would we be having this discussion if Sotomayor were a man?

“Virtually every person ... pushing is male,” observed Slate writer Dahlia Lithwick on a recent podcast, “and the people defending her are female.”

This is the third draft I have tried to write of a column tackling this subject. The first time, I got bogged down in actuarial tables before accepting that I am not medically trained and I have no idea how long Sonia Sotomayor is going to live. The second time, I went deep on sociology, trying to unpack the gender-based and racial overtones (Sotomayor is the first Latina justice) that make this discussion so fraught, before accepting that I’m writing a column, not a dissertation.

The third time, I realized that I’d been examining the wrong questions. When you ask the right one — and there is only one — then answering it for yourself becomes easy:

Do you think the republic holds?

That is the only question that you need to answer for yourself when figuring out whether, if you are a liberal, you think Sonia Sotomayor should retire.

It’s a loaded question, though, so maybe the best way to answer it is to envision what you see as the most plausible shape American politics will take one or five years from now.

Would another Trump defeat cause his party to become more obstinate and conspiracy-minded, or less? Would his acolytes in Congress become more accepting of a Democratic president’s authority to issue orders and make appointments, or less? If Trump wins, what would “democratic norms” look like?

Do you picture a normal-feeling presidential inauguration in 2025, in which a mass-market pop star sings the national anthem? Or do you picture the Capitol police donning riot gear in preparation for a possible attack on the White House? Do you think the odds of an attack on the White House are actually better than zero?

The functioning of American government is based on a series of codes and agreements. The agreement that the transfer of power will be peaceful. The agreement that presidents should be allowed to appoint qualified justices to fill any Supreme Court vacancy that occurs during their presidency (i.e. the argument that Senate GOP leader Mitch McConnell made when Donald Trump nominated Amy Coney Barrett) rather than Supreme Court vacancies being held open until the Senate likes the commander in chief (i.e. the argument that McConnell essentially made when Barack Obama nominated Garland).

The Style section

If you believe we are living in a reality in which the codes and agreements that support American governance will, though taxed, continue to support American governance, then you are fine with Sonia Sotomayor staying on the bench. You can trust that, actuarily speaking, she’ll likely feel great for another decade, and her eventual replacement will be chosen in a manner that is orderly and fair.

If you are a liberal who believes that the next election might fundamentally cripple American democracy, then you don’t want to rely on actuarial tables. You want a spry 49-year-old, right now, who will dedicate the next quarter century to protecting marriage equality and reinstating Roe.

Do you believe the republic holds?

It’s the question that already underpins this debate about Sotomayor. It is the grand, psychic fear that is running subconsciously through everyone’s mind as they get lost in oddly specific discussions about whether — and this was a real debate — the “medic” that Sotomayor has traveled with, according to U.S. Marshals Service records, referred to a human medical professional or merely to medical equipment.

What I appreciate about this question is that it is unsentimental and unsparing. Answering it for yourself does not require you to unpack all of your feelings about Sotomayor as an individual. It also does not require you to solve sexism, although I frankly think Would you be asking this if she were a man? is not the gotcha question people present it as. I don’t think people would be asking this question if Sotomayor were a man; I think people would be demanding it. I think it would be the “Retire, Breyer” movement we saw back in 2022, but dialed up to 11.

Do you think the republic holds does not require you to get philosophical about what the founders intended, or what is just, or what is optimal. It requires you to get practical about what is . Not: Is it fair that some people are laying the entire broken burden of American jurisprudence on the shoulders of one woman? But rather: Where is the Band-Aid? Does someone have a Band-Aid?

If you feel optimistic about the future of the country and are liberal-minded about the law, then I encourage you to feel confident and reassured by Sotomayor’s presence on the Supreme Court. If you end up thinking that she should retire, then you can, and should, insist that her replacement be another brilliant and eminently qualified woman, and you should make sure Joe Manchin III is ready and willing to vote for that replacement.

But this isn’t about Sotomayor. This is about what people think America will look like when Sotomayor eventually does shuffle off this mortal coil. Which I sincerely hope happens when she is in the middle of writing another delightful children’s book, or going dancing, or cycling leisurely around Washington at the age of 112.

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Ultimate Guide to Writing an Evaluation Essay: Tips and Examples
An evaluation essay is a piece of writing that aims to assess the value or quality of a particular subject or phenomenon. It involves analyzing a topic, presenting your judgment or opinion on it, and providing evidence or examples to support your claims. This type of essay requires critical thinking, research, and effective communication skills ...
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"The Evaluation Essay" by Rachael Reynolds is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License and adapted work from the source below: Adapted from "Writing the Evaluation Essay" by Sara Layton and is used according to CC BY-NC-SA 3.0.
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Next, the essay needs to provide a judgment about a subject. This is the thesis of the essay, and it states whether the subject is good or bad based on how it meets the stated criteria. Criteria. The body of the essay will contain the criteria used to evaluate the subject. In an evaluation essay, the criteria must be appropriate for evaluating ...
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An evaluation essay is written by first making an overall judgment about the topic in the introduction and previewing the main points. The body of the essay lists the criteria that led to the ...
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An evaluation essay is a type of essay that requires you to judge the quality of a subject based on some ideal criteria that act as a point of comparison. We guide you through writing one with examples.
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An evaluation essay is a composition that offers value judgments about a particular subject according to a set of criteria. Also called evaluative writing, evaluative essay or report, and critical evaluation essay . An evaluation essay or report is a type of argument that provides evidence to justify a writer's opinions about a subject.
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Have a strong opinion—positive or negative—about this topic. Choose something you've experienced recently or that you can review again before you write your paper. Know a lot about this type of experience. Use the following list of categories to brainstorm ideas for what you might want to evaluate. Use this list of categories to brainstorm ...
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Multiply the total pages of the essay by 2 and then subtract 2 (for the intro and conclusion) to find the approximate number of body paragraphs a paper should have. For example, a 4 page essay should have about 6 body paragraphs. 2. Identify the topic sentence to evaluate a paragraph's cohesiveness.
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can be described as having two parts: a topic plus a comment about that topic. For example, if my thesis were "cats are annoying," the topic would be "cats" and the comment would be "are annoying." In a composition with such a thesis, unity only requires that every sentence be related to either the topic ("cats") and/or the comment
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Tips for Writing a Top-Notch Evaluation Essay

Choose a Relevant and Engaging Topic

Develop a Strong Thesis Statement

Provide Clear and Concise Criteria for Evaluation

Support Your Evaluation with Solid Evidence

Use a Structured Format to Organize Your Essay

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Evaluation Essay - Definition, Examples, and Writing Tips

What is an Evaluation Essay?

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Evaluation Essay Structure

How to Start an Evaluation Essay?

Step 1. Choose an Interesting Topic

Step 2. Set the Evaluation Essay Criteria

Step 3. Collect Evidence for Your Judgment

Step 4. Decide the Essay Structure

Step 5. Craft the Essay Outline

Step 6. Declare Your Thesis Statement

How to Write an Evaluation Essay?

Step 1. Write the Introduction

Step 2. Draft the Body Section

Step 3. Write the Conclusion

Step 4. Proofread, Revise, and Edit

How to Format Your Evaluation Essay?

Evaluation Essay Examples

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Evaluation Essay vs. Review

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2. What are the 4 types of evaluation?

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Evaluation Essay Examples: Master the Art of Critical Assessment with Examples and Techniques

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1. Select a Topic

2. Draft an Evaluation Essay Outline

3. Review, Edit, and Proofread

Structure of an Evaluation Essay

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1. Decide on What You Want to Evaluate

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The Evaluation Essay

Clearly Defined Criteria

A Knowledgeable Discussion of the Subject

A Balanced and Fair Assessment

Well-Supported Reasons

Step 1: Choosing a Topic

Step 2: Generating Ideas and Text

Step 3: Organization of the Evaluation Essay

Step 4: Drafting

Step 5: Get Feedback

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