Informative Essay Peer Review Worksheet for Middle School Students
Introduction:
Writing an informative essay requires students to research a topic, analyze information thoroughly, and present factual details to help readers learn. The goal is not to express opinions but rather to educate others on a subject. Conducting peer reviews is an important part of the writing process as it allows students to get feedback from their classmates to improve their drafts. This informative essay peer review worksheet provides middle school students with a structured way to evaluate essays and offer constructive suggestions.
Essay being reviewed: _____________________
Author: ____________________
Reviewer: ____________________ Date: ___________
Content:
Does the introduction clearly state the main topic and grab the reader’s interest?
Yes – Somewhat – No
Comments:
Are there at least 3 main points or paragraphs that inform the reader about different aspects of the topic?
Yes – Somewhat – No
Comments:
Does each main paragraph have a clear topic sentence that is supported with relevant facts, definitions, steps, descriptions, or other details?
Yes – Somewhat – No
Comments:
Are all the details and facts presented clearly, concisely and in a logical order?
Yes – Somewhat – No
Comments:
Is it clear how all the different details are connected and related to the main topic?
Yes – Somewhat – No
Comments:
Does the conclusion thoroughly summarize the most important information for the reader and close the essay?
Yes – Somewhat – No
Comments:
Organization:
Is the essay laid out in a way that is easy to follow with clear transitions between paragraphs?
Yes – Somewhat – No
Comments:
Does each paragraph have a clear topic sentence and flow logically from introduction to body to conclusion?
Yes – Somewhat – No
Comments:
Voice:
Is the tone of the essay formal and objective without any personal opinions or bias?
Yes – Somewhat – No
Comments:
Is the writing concise without any unnecessary filler words or sentences?
Yes – Somewhat – No
Comments:
Conventions:
Are grammar, spelling, capitalization, and punctuation mostly correct throughout the essay?
Yes – Somewhat – No
Comments:
Are sources cited properly where necessary using a consistent citation format (MLA, APA, etc.)?
Yes – Somewhat – No
Comments:
General Feedback:
What are two things the author did well in this essay?
What is one suggestion for improvement? Please be constructive.
Any other feedback or comments for the author?
Upon completing the peer review, have the author and reviewer discuss the feedback. Then the author should revise and improve the essay based on this discussion and review. Conducting peer reviews is intended to help middle school students learn from one another and produce higher quality final projects. Reviewing classmates’ work can also help students become stronger reviewers and editors of their own writing. With practice, this informative essay peer review process will benefit students in developing essential research, analysis, and communication skills.