Writing 101

Narrative Writing:

A piece of writing characterized by a main character in a setting who encounters a problem or engages in an interesting significant or entertaining activity or experience.

Characteristics:

  • Uses “I,” “we,” “you,” etc.
  • Typically has dialogue
  • Tells a story
  • Uses vivid language

Research Writing:

A writer is searching for an answer to a research question by synthesizing information from multiple sources and providing an explanation of how that information collectively answers the research question(s).

Characteristics:

  • Does NOT use “I,” “we,” “you,” etc.
  • Must include a strong thesis
  • Is based upon logic and explanation
  • Uses credible sources and citations
  • Integrates information to come to an answer or to a question

Argument Writing:

The writer takes a position on an issue or topic and supports the position with evidence and explanation. The writer also considers and refuses a counter-argument.

Characteristics:

  • Does NOT use “I,” “we,” “you,” etc.
  • Must include a strong thesis or claim
  • Is based upon logic and explanation
  • Considers a counter-argument

Rhetorical Analysis Writing:

A writer examines another piece of writing to identify the writer’s purpose, the techniques used, examples of those techniques, and the effectiveness of those techniques. When writing a rhetorical analysis, one is NOT saying whether or not they agree with the argument. Instead, the writer is discussing how the other writer makes that argument and whether or not the approach used is successful.

Characteristics:

  • Does NOT use “I,” “we,” “you,” etc.
  • Must include a strong thesis
  • Examines the author’s purpose
  • Finds examples of techniques used to reach purpose
  • Explains WHY/HOW the author used those specific techniques
  • Reveals whether that author effectively or ineffectively met their purpose

Literary Analysis Writing:

A writer aims to examine and evaluate a particular aspect of a work of literature or the work in its entirety. It typically analyzes elements like character development, plot twists, the sequence of events, theme, or the piece’s setting to offer the reader more insight regarding the author’s intent and the quality of its execution.

Characteristics:

  • Must include a strong thesis
  • Aims to examine a specific aspect of a work, typically a literary element
  • Uses evidence from the text to support analysis
  • IS NOT A SUMMARY