7. Writing the conclusion
The conclusion of an analytical book review restates your stance in relation to the question, and summarizes the main points that you have made in the body paragraphs. It is often a good idea to finish the book review with a suggestion, prediction, or expression of hope for the future.
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To conclude, Donald Shimoda in Richard Bach’s Illusions is an example of someone who goes to extremes to reject social norms and causes misfortune as a result. He often declines to be respectful and polite to those he interacts with. He also flaunts his abandonment of responsibility to contribute meaningfully to society. Lastly, he advocates a selfish approach to life in which the highest good is individual freedom and self-expression. Although some might interpret this philosophy as one of transcendence of social restrictions, it unfortunately leads to an ending full of confusion and misery. Most citizens are at a developmental stage where they need the guidance of ‘rules’ of behaviour to follow to interact in a civil and non-violent manner with each other. Following the example of Shimoda can lead instead to misunderstandings, conflict, and even physical violence. Although writers should address the theme of conformity versus self-expression, they would be wise to show their readers how to achieve a balance between the two in a more moderate way, as opposed to the extreme approach represented by Donald Shimoda. |
Restatement of stance
Summary of main points in support of stance
Summary of alternative viewpoint
Suggestion |
About this website
EWRite is an open access online literacy platform for PolyU community that has two major objectives:
- to support PolyU students’ literacy development within and across the disciplines
- to support subject and language teachers to implement system-level measures for integrating literacy-sensitive pedagogies across the university
This platform provides access to generic genre guides representing typical university assignments as well as links to subjects offered by faculties with specific disciplinary genres and relevant support materials.
The materials can be retrieved by students by choosing the genres that interest them on the landing page. Each set of materials includes a genre guide, genre video, and a genre checklist. The genre guide and video are to summarize the genres in two different ways (i.e. textual and dynamic) to fit different learning styles. The genre checklist is for students to self-regulate their writing process. The genre guide and checklist include links to various ELC resources that can provide further explanation to language items (e.g. hedging and academic vocabulary).
The platform also acts as a one-stop-shop for writing resources for students, language teachers and subject leaders. Information about the English Writing Requirement policy can also be found on this platform. There are training materials for new colleagues joining the EWR Liaison Team.
