They Say I Say - Gerald Graff

They Say I Say - Gerald Graff

They Say I Say: The Moves That Matter in Academic Writing

Introduction

In "They Say I Say," Gerald Graff argues that academic writing is not about simply stating your own opinion, but rather about engaging with the ideas of others. He identifies a number of "moves" that writers can use to do this, such as summarizing, quoting, paraphrasing, and responding. By using these moves, writers can create a more nuanced and engaging argument that takes into account the perspectives of others.

The Moves

Graff identifies eight key moves that writers can use to engage with the ideas of others:

  1. Summarizing: This involves presenting the main points of someone else's argument in your own words.
  2. Quoting: This involves using the exact words of someone else to support your argument.
  3. Paraphrasing: This involves restating someone else's argument in your own words, but without using their exact words.
  4. Responding: This involves expressing your own opinion on someone else's argument, either agreeing with it, disagreeing with it, or qualifying it.
  5. Agreeing and disagreeing: This involves acknowledging the strengths and weaknesses of someone else's argument, and then stating your own position on the issue.
  6. Qualifying: This involves acknowledging the limitations of your own argument, and then stating the conditions under which it might be true.
  7. Conceding: This involves admitting that someone else's argument is stronger than your own, but then arguing that your own argument is still worth considering.
  8. Refuting: This involves arguing that someone else's argument is wrong, and then presenting your own evidence to support your claim.

Using the Moves

Graff argues that writers can use these moves to create a more nuanced and engaging argument that takes into account the perspectives of others. By summarizing, quoting, paraphrasing, and responding to the ideas of others, writers can show that they have done their research and that they are taking their readers seriously. They can also create a more persuasive argument by acknowledging the strengths and weaknesses of their own position, and by considering the perspectives of others.

Conclusion

"They Say I Say" is a valuable resource for anyone who wants to improve their academic writing. Graff's insights into the moves that matter in academic writing can help writers to create more nuanced, engaging, and persuasive arguments.

Why You Should Buy This Book

If you are a student, "They Say I Say" is a must-read. It will help you to improve your academic writing skills and to get better grades. If you are a teacher, "They Say I Say" is a valuable resource that you can use to help your students improve their writing. And if you are simply someone who is interested in writing, "They Say I Say" is a fascinating look at the art of academic writing.

Order Your Copy Today!

"They Say I Say" is available in hardcover, paperback, and ebook formats. Order your copy today and start improving your academic writing skills!