Having students comment on other papers has many advantages, not just for the writer, but for the reader as well. One advantage is that it helps the reader to develop their ability to give constructive feedback. They can see different approaches from other writers and receive feedback from than just a teacher. There’s just one small problem that I have with comments from others. It’s that their comments can be irrelevant, which Straub slightly touched upon. Sometime other writers can be doubtful of receiving comments and feedbacks from their fellow peers. One reason can be that they fear the comments are not as constructive compared to a teacher’s comments. Or that they are doubtful of other writer’s ability to critique.
One of my favorite points from Straub was when he writes “Temper your criticisms.” You should never be too harsh and destructive to other people’s writing. Comments such as “How dumb” and “How stupid” is not a part of making constructive comments. But on the flip side, being too kind and nice is also not a part of making constructive feedbacks. They feel pressure from their friends, not wanting to damage relationships. But a good friend should always attempt to make as many comments as possible. A lot of comments does not necessarily mean that a paper is bad. It means that there is potential to become a masterpiece. Straub’s book does not emphasize on why responding to other’s writing is beneficial, but provides various methods on how to effectively respond to others. I’ve taken away that temperance when critiquing is important. I’ve learned to not be to self-conscience and express your opinions whole-heartedly. It will come across as more genuine and be beneficial to both writer and reader.
I like how you mentioned that responding to others work can also help yourself. You are actually reading other people’s work and learning from them: the techniques, methods, and structures that they use. Also, I do agree that you do not want to offend or make the writer feel bad. You want to improve him/her.
Through contsructive peer editing I learned to not get defensive about my writing and realize that good writing doesn’t need the author explaining every sentence along the way. I agree with your point, when you mentioned that “a good friend should always attempt to make as many comments as possible.” Often times, students don’t realize that lack of thoughtful and effective criticism does more harm to the writer than good. Any ways, just because a friend’s thesis is underdeveloped, doesn’t mean they’re lacking good character— this would be a silly reason to fight over.