“First, you must translate the statement or argument into a form that can we analyzed using the

modeling tools we have developed in class. Second, you must use these tools to critical examine

the statement or argument. This kind of analysis involves doing more than merely paraphrasing

the textbook or class notes. It involves things like: identifying which model or tool is appropriate

for the context, checking to see if the assumptions of this model are satisfied, identifying changes

in circumstances and working through predictions of their effects, etc. You must compare your

analysis with the author’s arguments and be able to articulate any differences or similarities in a

precise manner. Last you must translate your thoughts back into clear language that lay readers

can understand.” “For each assignment you

will be given an article and a prompt related to this article. You will be asked to critically

evaluate the article, using the prompt to focus your thoughts. You will be graded on the quality

and thoroughness of your analysis. ” STRUCTURE: “1. The introduction (first paragraph) briefly summarizes what you consider to be the main

points of the article. If there are many, focus on the one(s) that you think are relevant to

the prompt.2. The next part should provide your analysis of the arguments or findings in the article and

their relationship to the prompt. Your arguments should use economic concepts and

models you have learnt in class, and use language that a general audience can understand.

Narrow your focus if necessary — it’s more important to critically evaluate the

article/prompt combination in depth from a particular angle than comment on every point

made in the article. Spend some time re-reading the article to figure out what’s relevant

and what’s not.

3. Briefly draw your evaluation together in a short concluding paragraph.

4. Any references you cite should be identified and listed at the end of the paper. They do

not count towards the word limit.” TIPS: Read the article and determine what parts of it are relevant to the prompt.

 If the article makes any arguments or assertions that are relevant to the prompt, identify

them and determine what evidence, if any, the author uses to support them. Is the author

missing anything or has he/she used an economic tool incorrectly? Is there evidence that

contradicts their argument?

 Determine which models from class are most useful in thinking about the empirical facts,

arguments, and other commentary in the article. Are there any implications of these

models that the author hasn’t discussed?

 Refer to the Chicago Manual of Style for advice on how to write up your references.

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