Writing an Evaluation Essay

In an Evaluation Essay, the writer explores the significance of a particular event, a current trend, an extended project, a recent decision, a new product, and so on.  To develop an essay of this type, think in terms of a subject's value, impact, and significance; its strengths and weaknesses; its place in the scheme of things.

Once you select a subject, list all the points that you want to evaluate.  For example, if your subject is a product, you might evaluate its appearance, durability, manageability, affordability, usefulness, etc.  You are trying to put your subject in perspective, to rate it, to measure it, etc.

As you're writing, ask yourself:
-- Does this essay truly evaluate, assess, consider, weigh the subject?
-- Does the writing have a clear sense of order and purpose?
-- Will readers appreciate the treatment of the subject?


A useful graphic organizer for an Evaluation Essay:

Points to evaluate	Supporting details
1.	1.
2.	2.
3.	3.
4.	4.
5.	5.
Etc.	Etc.