The Transition From High School To College Writing (Page 2 of 2) in pdf

The Transition From High School To College Writing Page 2

WRC Handout

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learn the difference between unreliable “free web” sources and more reliable “fee web” sources.

Anything the library pays for through subscription service is generally an acceptable research

source. Books and peer-reviewed journals are even better.

Format

Though it varies by professor, most college papers are typed and double-spaced, with one-inch

margins all around. They are usually in 12-point font, either Times New Roman or Arial. Unless

professors specifically ask for one, papers are usually submitted without a cover page; similarly,

college papers rarely include plastic binders and other types of folders. Graphics (such as charts

or illustrations) are sometimes permitted, but they should be professional looking and do not

count as page space.

Some fundamental differences between a book report and a literature paper:

- A book report/book review typically has a pre-established form consisting of two segments:

summary and opinion.

- A literature paper has a flexible structure.

- A book report asks what the book is about and why the reader should/should not read the book.

- A literature paper makes and defends an argument about a specific debatable topic within the

text. A literature paper also provides evidence for its position.

- A book report gives an opinion—a flat statement of belief.

- A literature paper defends an argument/thesis statement. An argument typically has an

architecture of “supports” to bolster a stated belief and also includes an explicit discussion of

opposing arguments.

- In a book report, opinion can be rather explicit.

- In a literature paper, the writer’s position on the argument should generally be more subtle.

If you find yourself struggling…

Don’t be afraid to ask for help! Remember that writing is a process—one that will become more

familiar to you as you gain experience. Student writing assistants in the New College Writing

Resource Center are trained to assist you in any point of the writing process, from brainstorming

to organizing. We can help make your transition a smooth one.

Information adapted from the Temple University Writing Resource Center

( ) and The University of

Texas at Austin Writing Center ( )

The Transition From High School To College Writing Page 2