Reading critically at university
Metcalfe, M. (2006). Reading critically at university. Sage. Available in the Massey Library.
Constructing a paragraph
This interactive online tutorial will help you learn how to structure paragraphs effectively.
Article critique
A critique is a specific style of assignment in which you identify, evaluate and respond to an author's ideas in an objective and balanced way. You will usually critique academic sources.
Identify
- What is the background and purpose of the article?
- What is the main idea or main argument the article is communicating?
Evaluate
- How convincing is the argument?
- What does the argument assume?
- How useful or applicable is the article?
- How does the article compare with other current theory and research?
Respond
- What is your assessment of the article?
- What issues does it raise?
- What issues does it avoid?
Engage with the article by considering its content carefully from different angles. Do not just summarise it. Your critique must be objective, so support it with evidence.
As a tertiary student, we expect you to read widely and develop analytical skills to assess what you read. Your article critique should demonstrate that you:
- have read extensively
- can identify the particular strengths and weaknesses of those readings
- can identify different positions and perspectives in the readings
- are developing the skills and knowledge to engage with the experts
- are joining in a broader academic debate about an article's merits.
Critiquing a set of articles allows you to develop an understanding of the 'big picture' of the discipline as a whole. It is important to understand the current state of knowledge because you may be expected to contribute new understandings to the discipline as a postgraduate or doctoral student.
Writing a critique
The process of critiquing an article involves reading it critically – actively responding to the reading. Begin by asking questions about the article. What is its:
- Background?
- Purpose?
- Use of evidence?
- Methodology?
- Balance?
Learn more about critical reading
The structure of an article is typically the same as for an essay – including an introduction, body paragraphs and conclusion.
Introduction
Learn how to write an introduction paragraph, including context for your essay, your response to the essay question and the structure and organisation of the essay.
Body paragraphs
Learn how to write body paragraphs and discuss each major point in your essay, using the Point Illustration Explanation (PIE) method.
Conclusion
Find out how to summarise the most important, relevant, and useful main points from your body paragraphs in your essay's conclusion.
Non-essay structures
Different courses may specify their own structure or approach to an article critique. Check the specific requirements for your article critique's structure and focus with your lecturer or in your assignment or course guidelines.
Reading critically
The process of critiquing an article involves reading it critically – actively responding to the reading. Begin by asking questions about the article. What is its:
- Background?
- Purpose?
- Use of evidence?
- Methodology?
- Balance?
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