Academic Journal Article Review Guidelines

Historians love to review the works of other historians. Whenever a new history book is written, the historical profession selects experts in particular fields of studies to determine the value and contribution the new work will have on the academic discipline. Upon completion of the course’s reading, each student will be considered an expert and be required to read an academic article and submit a 2 page review. Students are encouraged to celebrate the author’s accomplishments, but also challenge anything that seems substandard. Style and creativity play a crucial role in the success of your review.

? All papers must be 2 typed pages, double spaced, with 12pt font.

? Please put your name, course name, and date at the top of the paper.

Article Review should address the following:

1. The author’s purpose in writing the article
2. The author’s main thesis
3. The author’s challenging of other historical viewpoints
4. The evidence utilized by the author (specifically primary sources)
5. Personal likes/dislikes
6. How the author could make the work stronger?
7. The recommend audience of the article?
8. Explain how this article contributes to understanding the history of the United States
9. An example of how this article supports/contradicts Eric Fondness Give Me Liberty
10. Suggested reading to accompany this work (not required, but helpful)

The Format should be as follows:

1. Introduction paragraph
   • ?  The first paragraph introduces the author and the article you will review
   • ?  A sentence should give an initial impression of the work
   • ?  Express the purpose and thesis in the introduction paragraph
2. Body paragraphs
   • ?  One paragraph should summarize the article
   • ?  Several paragraphs should address the items listed above.
3. Conclusion paragraph
   • ?  The final paragraph should express the importance of this work (or the lack)
   • ?  Suggested readings to accompany this work and other final thoughts

     _____________________________________________________________________________________

     ? Proofread your paper BEFORE you submit

     ? 10% of Grade is based upon professionalization of writing

     Points will be deducted if grammatical errors and misspellings interfere with comprehension

     The culmination of this review will be an AHA discussion seminar where students will engage in a discussion on highlights and low lights of their selected article.