Final answer:
Graff and Birkenstein encourage students to create a balance between summarizing and analytical writing, suggesting the use of graphic organizers and critical engagement with texts. They also recommend marking summaries and analysis separately to ensure the emphasis is on analysis in academic writing.
Step-by-step explanation:
Graff and Birkenstein's Suggestions on Summarizing
Within Graff and Birkenstein's teachings on integrating research and the art of summarizing, they offer practical advice to distinguish between mere summary and more analytical writing. To begin with, when summarizing, it's vital to condense the material into a brief, accurate representation of the main points and critical details.
A summary should be woven into your work without dominating, giving way to more analytical engagement with the text. Graff and Birkenstein suggest using a graphic organizer to help structure the balance between summary and analysis.
Moreover, it is recommended to approach texts critically, engaging in an imagined dialogue with the work. This involves scrutinizing the material, appreciating what resonates with you, questioning aspects that you may not agree with, and considering how the work relates to others you have encountered.
To adequately balance summary and analysis, use two different highlighters on your draft: one for highlighting summary segments and the other for areas of analysis. It's encouraged to keep summary minimal and focus on presenting essential analysis that adds to the paper.
Lastly, Graff and Birkenstein warn against the temptation to overuse summary due to its ease compared to deep analysis. They stress the importance of pushing past the comfort zone of summary into the challenging but rewarding territory of original analytical thought. This transition moves you from reproduction of ideas to the creation of new insights.