This book by Gerald Graff and Cathy Birkenstein demystifies academic writing, teaching students to engage with others’ ideas using rhetorical moves and templates for effective argumentation.
Overview of the Book
They Say / I Say by Gerald Graff and Cathy Birkenstein is a widely acclaimed guide to academic writing. It teaches students to engage with others’ ideas through rhetorical moves, offering practical templates for effective argumentation. The book emphasizes summarizing, quoting, and responding to viewpoints, helping writers join academic conversations. With editions like the sixth featuring new chapters on researching conversations and expanded support for reading, it remains a vital resource for demystifying academic writing. Its structured approach, including exercises and real-world examples, equips students to articulate their arguments clearly and confidently. The book’s conversational tone and focus on critical thinking have made it indispensable for learners across disciplines.
Purpose and Importance of the Text
The primary purpose of They Say / I Say is to empower students with essential tools for academic writing. By teaching rhetorical moves, the book helps students engage with existing ideas, fostering critical thinking and effective argumentation. Its importance lies in demystifying academic writing, making it accessible and less intimidating. The text bridges the gap between personal opinions and scholarly discourse, enabling students to participate confidently in intellectual conversations. With its practical templates and real-world examples, the book serves as a foundational resource for developing argumentative skills, crucial for academic success across disciplines. Its widespread adoption highlights its enduring relevance in education.
Key Concepts of “They Say / I Say”
The book introduces rhetorical moves, emphasizing the importance of engaging with others’ ideas. It provides templates for summarizing, responding, and arguing effectively in academic writing.
The Core Idea: Engaging with Others’ Ideas
The core idea of They Say / I Say centers on the importance of engaging with others’ ideas in academic writing. By summarizing, quoting, and responding to what others have said, writers can situate their arguments within a broader intellectual conversation. This approach emphasizes that writing is not just about expressing one’s own views but also about understanding and addressing the perspectives of others. The book provides practical strategies and templates to help students master this skill, making their arguments more nuanced and persuasive. This methodology fosters critical thinking and effective communication, essential for success in academic and professional settings.
Mastering Rhetorical Moves in Academic Writing
They Say / I Say focuses on teaching students the essential rhetorical moves required to excel in academic writing. These moves include summarizing others’ arguments, quoting effectively, and responding thoughtfully to different perspectives. The book provides templates and examples to help students structure their arguments and engage with existing ideas. By mastering these moves, writers can make their arguments more persuasive and relevant. The approach emphasizes the importance of understanding and addressing counterarguments, while also maintaining one’s own voice. This skill is crucial for producing coherent, impactful writing in various academic disciplines, as it fosters clarity, critical thinking, and effective communication.
Templates for Effective Argumentation
They Say / I Say provides practical templates that guide students in structuring their arguments. These templates help in framing responses to others’ ideas, making academic writing more accessible. For example, phrases like “Some might argue…” or “In response to…” enable students to engage with differing viewpoints. The templates also encourage the use of evidence and clear reasoning to support claims. By using these tools, students can confidently enter academic conversations, ensuring their arguments are clear, persuasive, and well-supported. This approach simplifies the complexity of academic writing, making it easier for learners to express their ideas effectively and contribute meaningfully to ongoing discussions.
Structure of the Book
They Say / I Say is organized into clear chapters, each focusing on key rhetorical moves, supported by examples, exercises, and revised content in the sixth edition.
Organization of the Chapters
The book is divided into clear, logical chapters, each focusing on essential rhetorical moves. It begins with foundational concepts like summarizing and responding to others, then progresses to advanced techniques. The sixth edition introduces a new chapter on researching conversations, while earlier editions emphasize templates and exercises to guide students. Each chapter integrates real-world examples and practical tools, ensuring a comprehensive learning experience. The structure encourages gradual mastery of academic writing skills, making it accessible for students at all levels. The organization ensures that each chapter builds on the previous one, fostering a deep understanding of argumentation and critical thinking.
Integration of Examples and Exercises
The book seamlessly integrates real-world examples and practical exercises to help students master academic writing. Each chapter includes engaging examples from diverse fields, such as essays by Michelle Alexander and Katha Pollitt, to illustrate rhetorical moves. Exercises are designed to apply these concepts, allowing students to practice summarizing, quoting, and responding to arguments. The templates provided in the text serve as a framework for structuring arguments effectively. These resources make abstract concepts tangible and accessible. The integration of examples and exercises ensures active learning, helping students connect theory to practice and build confidence in their writing abilities. This approach fosters a deeper understanding of academic discourse and its practical applications.
Revisions in Later Editions
Later editions of “They Say / I Say” have been extensively revised to enhance student learning. The sixth edition introduces a new chapter on “Researching Conversations,” along with additional exercises and expanded support for reading and revising. The fourth edition incorporated new examples from authors like Michelle Alexander and Rebecca Goldstein, broadening the range of academic writing styles presented. The fifth edition updated content to reflect contemporary issues and further refined the book’s practical approach. These revisions ensure the text remains relevant and effective, addressing the evolving needs of students and educators. Each update strengthens the book’s ability to demystify academic writing and empower students to engage confidently in intellectual conversations.
Editions of “They Say / I Say”
The book is available in multiple editions, including the fourth, fifth, and sixth editions, each offering updated content, new chapters, and additional resources for effective academic writing.
Key Features of the Sixth Edition
The sixth edition of They Say / I Say includes a new chapter on Researching Conversations, providing practical guidance on integrating sources. It offers expanded support for reading complex texts, enhanced exercises for hands-on practice, and a revised chapter on revising for clarity and impact. This edition is designed to be a more practical companion for students, addressing feedback from educators and learners. The updates ensure that students can better navigate academic conversations, engage with diverse perspectives, and refine their writing skills. These enhancements make the sixth edition a valuable resource for mastering rhetorical moves and excelling in academic writing.
What’s New in the Fourth Edition
The fourth edition of They Say / I Say introduces new examples of academic writing from diverse authors, including Michelle Alexander, Rebecca Goldstein, and Deborah Tannen. These additions provide students with varied perspectives and real-world applications. The edition also features forty readings, half of which are new, covering five controversial issues to stimulate critical thinking. Enhanced support for reading and writing, along with expanded exercises, helps students master rhetorical moves. These updates aim to make academic writing more accessible and engaging, ensuring students can effectively summarize, respond, and argue in their own work. The fourth edition strengthens the book’s role as a practical guide for academic success.
Updates in the Fifth Edition
The fifth edition of They Say / I Say introduces a new chapter on “Researching Conversations” to help students engage with sources more effectively. It also includes expanded support for reading and an expanded chapter on revising, providing students with more tools to refine their arguments. The edition offers enhanced clarity and accessibility, making it easier for students to master rhetorical moves. Additionally, the fifth edition is available as a PDF, allowing for convenient access. Supplementary materials and exercises further support student learning, ensuring a comprehensive approach to improving academic writing and argumentation skills. These updates reinforce the book’s reputation as a practical guide for students.
Benefits for Students
They Say / I Say equips students with essential tools to master academic writing, fostering critical thinking and confident argumentation. Its practical templates and real-world examples make complex concepts accessible, helping students engage effectively with diverse perspectives and construct clear, persuasive arguments. By demystifying rhetorical moves, the book empowers students to participate in academic conversations with clarity and confidence, while its availability as a PDF ensures easy access to these valuable resources.
Demystifying Academic Writing
They Say / I Say breaks down the complexities of academic writing, offering practical tools and templates that help students engage with others’ ideas. By providing clear examples and exercises, the book reveals the rhetorical moves that underpin persuasive writing, making it accessible to all learners. The sixth edition, available as a PDF, includes new chapters on researching conversations and revising, further enhancing its utility. This approach demystifies the process, enabling students to confidently navigate academic discourse and present their arguments effectively. The book’s focus on real-world applications ensures that students can apply these skills in essays, discussions, and beyond, fostering a deeper understanding of how to participate in intellectual conversations.
Improving Argumentation Skills
They Say / I Say equips students with essential tools to strengthen their argumentation skills. By learning to engage with others’ ideas through summarizing, quoting, and responding, students develop the ability to craft compelling arguments. The book provides templates and rhetorical moves, such as acknowledging opposing views and addressing counterarguments, which are crucial for persuasive writing. These strategies help students move beyond mere opinion-based arguments to well-supported, nuanced positions. The sixth edition, available as a PDF, includes new chapters on researching conversations and revising, further enhancing students’ ability to articulate their thoughts clearly and effectively. This approach fosters confidence in engaging with academic and real-world discussions.
Enhancing Critical Thinking
They Say / I Say enhances critical thinking by teaching students to analyze and respond to diverse perspectives. The book emphasizes the importance of understanding others’ viewpoints before presenting one’s own, fostering a deeper engagement with ideas. By learning rhetorical moves such as summarizing, paraphrasing, and addressing counterarguments, students develop the ability to evaluate information critically. The sixth edition, available as a PDF, includes expanded support for reading and new exercises that encourage analytical thinking. This approach helps students move beyond surface-level understanding, enabling them to participate thoughtfully in academic and real-world conversations. The book’s structured templates and examples guide students in developing well-supported, logical arguments.
Practical Applications of the Book
They Say / I Say equips students with practical tools, such as templates and rhetorical moves, to effectively engage in academic and real-world discussions with clarity and confidence.
Using the Templates in Essays
The book provides practical templates that students can use to structure their essays effectively. These templates guide learners in summarizing others’ ideas, responding to counterarguments, and clearly presenting their own viewpoints. By using phrases like “They say…,” “In other words…,” and “I argue…,” students can seamlessly integrate others’ perspectives into their writing. This approach ensures that essays are well-organized and logically structured, making arguments more persuasive. The templates also help students avoid common pitfalls, such as oversimplifying or misrepresenting others’ views. Additionally, they encourage critical thinking by prompting students to consider multiple sides of an issue before asserting their own position. This method fosters clarity, coherence, and confidence in academic writing.
Applying Rhetorical Moves in Discussions
The rhetorical moves taught in “They Say / I Say” are not only for writing but also for enhancing verbal discussions. By learning to summarize others’ ideas effectively, students can engage more meaningfully in conversations. The templates provided in the book, such as “They argue… I counter…” or “In other words…,” help students articulate their thoughts clearly. These moves foster active listening, encourage empathy, and promote respectful dialogue. In discussions, students can use these strategies to acknowledge differing viewpoints, address counterarguments, and present their own perspectives persuasively; This approach cultivates critical thinking and collaboration, making conversations more productive and engaging. It also helps students navigate complex debates with confidence and clarity.
Connecting to Real-World Arguments
“They Say / I Say” bridges academic writing with real-world scenarios, enabling students to apply rhetorical strategies to contemporary issues. The book provides examples from diverse fields, such as politics, social justice, and technology, helping students see the relevance of academic moves in everyday debates. By practicing these techniques, students can critically analyze media, public speeches, and online discussions. This connection equips them to participate thoughtfully in societal conversations, whether in classrooms, communities, or professional settings. The ability to engage with real-world arguments empowers students to contribute meaningfully to public discourse, making their learning both practical and impactful. This approach transforms academic skills into lifelong communication tools.
Reception and Testimonials
“They Say / I Say” is widely praised for its practical approach to academic writing, with students and educators alike calling it a transformative resource for clear, confident argumentation.
Academic Community Feedback
The academic community widely praises “They Say / I Say” for its transformative impact on teaching and learning. Educators highlight its ability to demystify academic writing, making it accessible to students of all levels. Many describe it as a “brilliant book” and a “membership card in the academic club,” emphasizing its role in helping students engage with others’ ideas. The book’s practical approach and templates have been particularly celebrated for fostering confidence and clarity in argumentation. Its emphasis on rhetorical moves resonates with instructors seeking to empower students to participate in academic conversations effectively. This feedback underscores its value as an essential resource in higher education.
Student Testimonials and Success Stories
Students have widely praised They Say / I Say for its practical guidance and transformative impact on their writing skills. Many describe the book as a “true hero” for demystifying academic writing and boosting their confidence in engaging with complex ideas. Testimonials highlight how the templates and exercises helped them structure arguments effectively and participate in class discussions with clarity. Some students appreciate the availability of the PDF version, which they use as a convenient resource for quick reference. Success stories abound, with many crediting the book for improving their grades and fostering a deeper understanding of academic discourse. Its accessible approach has empowered students to express their ideas more articulately and engage meaningfully with scholarly conversations.
Reviews from Educators
Educators widely acclaim They Say / I Say for its ability to simplify complex academic concepts and empower students; Many describe it as a “brilliant book” that serves as a “membership card in the academic club,” helping students engage confidently in scholarly conversations. Teachers praise its practical templates and exercises, which they find invaluable for teaching argumentation and critical thinking. The book’s focus on rhetorical moves resonates with educators seeking to bridge the gap between classroom discussions and academic writing. Its clear, accessible style has made it a favorite among instructors across disciplines, who appreciate its ability to demystify writing and foster deeper student engagement with course materials.
Downloads and Resources
The book is available as a PDF across various editions, with supplementary materials and exercises accessible online, providing convenient resources for students and educators.
Availability of the PDF Version
The PDF version of They Say / I Say is widely accessible across multiple editions, including the fourth, fifth, and sixth editions. These versions can be downloaded from various online platforms such as DocDroid, offering convenience for students and educators. The PDF format ensures that the content is easily readable and shareable, making it a popular choice for academic use. Additionally, the PDF versions often include supplementary materials, exercises, and updated chapters, enhancing the learning experience. This accessibility has made the book a favorite among those seeking to improve their academic writing skills, with many testimonials praising its clarity and effectiveness.
Supplementary Materials and Exercises
They Say / I Say offers extensive supplementary materials to enhance learning. The sixth edition includes a new chapter on “Researching Conversations” and expanded support for reading and revising. Exercises are integrated throughout the text, allowing students to practice rhetorical moves and argumentation skills. The fourth edition introduces new examples from authors like Michelle Alexander and Deborah Tannen, providing diverse perspectives. These resources help students apply the book’s concepts to real-world arguments, making academic writing more accessible and engaging. The exercises and readings are designed to foster critical thinking and effective communication, ensuring students are well-prepared for academic and professional writing challenges.
Online Platforms for Access
They Say / I Say is widely available in digital formats, making it accessible to students worldwide. Platforms like DocDroid offer the full-text PDF for free download or online reading. The fifth edition can also be downloaded or streamed without additional media supplements. Additionally, websites such as PSU ENG015 provide access to the book, ensuring students can easily find and use the material. These online platforms allow for convenient access to the book’s resources, including exercises and examples, enabling students to study and apply its concepts anytime and anywhere. This accessibility has made the book a popular choice for both in-class and independent learning.
They Say / I Say demystifies academic writing, offering practical tools for effective argumentation. Its PDF availability and proven success make it an essential resource for students.
Final Thoughts on the Book’s Value
They Say / I Say stands as a transformative guide for academic writing, equipping students with essential tools to engage confidently in intellectual conversations. Its clear templates and real-world examples make complex concepts accessible, fostering critical thinking and effective argumentation. The book’s emphasis on rhetorical moves and its ability to demystify academic writing have earned it widespread acclaim. With updated editions offering expanded support for research and revising, it remains a vital resource for students navigating academic environments. Testimonials from educators and students highlight its impact in helping learners overcome writing challenges and produce polished, persuasive work. Undoubtedly, They Say / I Say is an indispensable companion for anyone seeking to master academic writing.
Encouragement for Further Learning
Embrace the principles of They Say / I Say to deepen your understanding of academic writing and argumentation. By mastering rhetorical moves and templates, you’ll become a more confident and effective communicator. Apply these strategies in essays, discussions, and real-world scenarios to enhance your critical thinking and persuasion skills. Explore the book’s updated editions for new insights and exercises, and utilize supplementary materials to reinforce your learning. Remember, academic writing is a lifelong skill, and continuous practice will refine your ability to engage with diverse perspectives. Keep learning, applying, and growing as a writer and thinker.
About the Authors
Gerald Graff and Cathy Birkenstein, both scholars at the University of Illinois at Chicago, co-authored They Say / I Say, bringing their expertise in academic writing and rhetoric.
Gerald Graff’s Contributions
Gerald Graff, a renowned scholar and co-author of They Say / I Say, is celebrated for demystifying academic writing. His collaborative approach with Cathy Birkenstein revolutionized how students engage with others’ ideas. Graff’s work emphasizes rhetorical moves and templates, making complex concepts accessible. His contributions have empowered students to participate confidently in academic conversations, fostering critical thinking and argumentation skills; Graff’s insights have shaped the teaching of writing across disciplines, ensuring students understand the social, conversational nature of academic discourse. His impact extends beyond the classroom, influencing educators and learners globally.
Cathy Birkenstein’s Expertise
Cathy Birkenstein, co-author of They Say / I Say, brings extensive expertise in academic writing and rhetoric. Her innovative templates and exercises simplify complex argumentation strategies, helping students articulate their ideas effectively. Birkenstein’s work emphasizes the importance of engaging with diverse perspectives, enabling learners to craft compelling arguments. Her collaboration with Gerald Graff has produced a seminal text that demystifies academic writing, making it accessible and practical for students across disciplines. Birkenstein’s contributions have been instrumental in fostering critical thinking and confident communication, ensuring her work remains a cornerstone in education.
Their Collaboration and Impact
Gerald Graff and Cathy Birkenstein’s collaboration on They Say / I Say revolutionized academic writing instruction. Their book bridges the gap between theory and practice, offering students practical tools to engage with others’ ideas. By breaking down complex rhetorical moves into accessible templates, they empower students to participate confidently in academic conversations. The sixth edition expands on this foundation, addressing feedback from educators and students alike. Their work has been widely praised for its clarity and effectiveness, making it a standard resource in classrooms worldwide. This collaboration underscores their commitment to fostering critical thinking and effective communication, shaping the future of academic discourse.