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Penguins

In the introduction to 'They Say / I Say', Graff and Birkenstein present writing templates that aid in academic and vocational writing, asserting that using these templates does not constitute plagiarism unless specific responses are copied. The author expresses mixed feelings about the templates, finding them monotonous and lacking creativity. Despite this, there is a suggestion that modifications could make the writing process more enjoyable.

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Abby Z
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36 views1 page

Penguins

In the introduction to 'They Say / I Say', Graff and Birkenstein present writing templates that aid in academic and vocational writing, asserting that using these templates does not constitute plagiarism unless specific responses are copied. The author expresses mixed feelings about the templates, finding them monotonous and lacking creativity. Despite this, there is a suggestion that modifications could make the writing process more enjoyable.

Uploaded by

Abby Z
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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In the Introduction to “They Say / I Say”: The Moves That Matter in Academic Writing, Gerald

Graff and Cathy Birkenstein provide templates designed to help us structure and generate our
own writing. Specifically, Graff and Birkenstein argue that the types of writing templates they
offer help with not only academic writing, but speech and work as well. As the authors
themselves put it, “Working with these templates will give you an immediate sense of how to
engage in the kinds of critical thinking you are required to do at the college level and in the
vocational and public spheres beyond.” Although some people believe that this is plagiarism,
Graff and Birkenstein insist that unless you use people’s responses written in the blanks, the
templates aren’t anyone’s specific thoughts so it doesn’t count. In sum, then, their view is that
templates are not plagiarism.
I have mixed feelings about these templates. In my view, the types of templates that the
authors recommend are altogether monotonous. For instance, so far, the fact that I have not yet
had the opportunity to mention penguins or quote Princess Bride is entirely inconceivable. In
addition, using these templates is like trudging through the Fire Swamp because I don’t think I’ll
make it alive. Some might object, of course, on the grounds that this paragraph seems mighty
interesting. Yet I would argue to never challenge a Cicilian when grades are on the line. Overall,
then, I believe this might possibly be modified so that I can have quite a bit of fun -an important
point to make given that I have done just that.

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