Using a Peer Response Sheet

One way to help other writers is to read their work and respond to it. If you fill out a response sheet like the one above, you can focus your ideas and respond in the best way possible.

Before you work with the response sheet, though, consider the different roles of the writer and the responder:

If you are the writer . . .

• Come prepared with a draft you are working on.
• Start with a brief introduction of your writing.
• Then read a copy of your draft out loud and/or have your partner read it silently.
• After, ask questions like “Does my beginning get your interest?” or “Do you have any questions about my topic?”

If you are the responder . . .

• Carefully listen to and/or read the draft.
• Answer the writer’s immediate questions.
• Complete a response sheet to organize your ideas.
• Then comment aloud about the writing. Tell what parts you like and suggest ways to make the writing even better.
• Always be kind and polite in your remarks.

Your Turn  Conduct a peer-response session with a writing partner. Each of you should bring a draft that you have written. Take turns in the roles of writer and responder.

• Follow the guidelines for writers and responders. (See above.)
• When you are the responder, complete a peer-response sheet to organize your ideas.
• Remember to be kind and polite in your responses.