They Say I Say Template Answers And Examples

They Say, I Say: How to Write about the Ideas of Others

Understanding the perspectives and ideas of others is crucial in academic writing. The "They Say, I Say" template is a useful framework for integrating the ideas of others into your writing while maintaining your own voice and perspective. In this article, we will explore the "They Say, I Say" template, its significance, and provide examples of how to use it effectively in your writing.

What is the "They Say, I Say" Template?

The "They Say, I Say" template is a writing framework developed by Gerald Graff and Cathy Birkenstein. It helps writers to engage with the ideas of others, acknowledge their perspectives, and respond with their own thoughts and opinions. The template consists of two main parts: "They Say" and "I Say."

They Say: Acknowledging the Ideas of Others

The "They Say" part of the template involves summarizing, quoting, or paraphrasing the ideas of others. This section should provide context and demonstrate your understanding of the original author's perspective.

Example: In his article "The Impact of Climate Change," John Smith argues that "climate change is one of the most pressing issues of our time, requiring immediate attention and action from world leaders."

I Say: Responding with Your Own Perspective

The "I Say" part of the template involves responding to the ideas of others with your own thoughts, opinions, and perspectives. This section should demonstrate your critical thinking and analysis of the original author's ideas.

Example: While I agree with Smith's assertion that climate change is a pressing issue, I believe that individual actions, such as reducing meat consumption and using public transportation, can also play a significant role in mitigating its effects.

Benefits of Using the "They Say, I Say" Template

The "They Say, I Say" template offers several benefits for writers:

• Improved critical thinking: The template encourages writers to engage critically with the ideas of others, analyzing and evaluating their perspectives.
• Enhanced credibility: By acknowledging the ideas of others, writers demonstrate their awareness of the topic and their commitment to understanding different perspectives.
• Clearer expression of ideas: The template helps writers to articulate their own thoughts and opinions more clearly, distinguishing them from those of others.

Examples of Using the "They Say, I Say" Template

Here are a few examples of using the "They Say, I Say" template in different contexts:

• Academic writing: In a research paper on the impact of social media on mental health, a writer might use the "They Say, I Say" template to engage with the ideas of a prominent researcher in the field.
• Blog posts: A blogger writing about a current event might use the template to respond to the opinions of a public figure or thought leader.
• Essays: A student writing an essay on a literary text might use the template to analyze and respond to the ideas of a literary critic.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid When Using the "They Say, I Say" Template

While the "They Say, I Say" template is a useful framework for engaging with the ideas of others, there are some common pitfalls to avoid:

• Overemphasizing the "They Say" part: Make sure to balance your summary or quotation of the original author's ideas with your own response and analysis.
• Failing to provide context: Ensure that you provide enough context for readers to understand the original author's ideas and your response to them.
• Neglecting to support your own claims: Use evidence and reasoning to support your own arguments and claims, rather than simply asserting them.

Gallery of "They Say, I Say" Template Examples

By using the "They Say, I Say" template, writers can engage effectively with the ideas of others, demonstrating their critical thinking and analytical skills. By avoiding common pitfalls and using the template thoughtfully, writers can produce clear, well-supported arguments that showcase their own perspectives and ideas.