They Say/I Say by Gerald Graff and Cathy Birkenstein is an academic writing reference designed for student writers. The text introduces essential rhetorical strategies through 14 chapters divided into four parts, focusing on summarizing others' arguments, asserting one's views, enhancing clarity, and applying techniques to specific contexts. With practical exercises and templates, the book equips students to navigate academic writing with precision and confidence.

They Say I Say by Gerald Graff and Cathy Birkenstein is widely praised for its clear framework that aids students in academic writing. Many find its templates practical for structuring arguments. However, some critics feel it can be formulaic and may limit creativity. Overall, it is considered a valuable tool for novice writers.

A reader who would enjoy They Say I Say by Gerald Graff and Cathy Birkenstein is likely a student or academic seeking to improve their argumentative writing skills. Comparable to The Elements of Style by Strunk and White, this guide focuses on mastering the art of persuasive writing in academics.

Informative / Challenging / Inspirational

**Gerald Graff**  
A coauthor of the book and a professor of English and Education at the University of Illinois at Chicago, known for his work in pedagogy and previously serving as president of the Modern Language Association. He collaborates with Cathy Birkenstein to teach writing, composition, and communication.

**Cathy Birkenstein**  
A coauthor of the book and a lecturer in English at the University of Illinois at Chicago, who regularly coteaches with Gerald Graff and is involved in Argument-Centered Education (ACE). She works alongside Graff to focus on writing and communication.

**Christopher Gillen**  
A contributor to the book and a professor of biology at Kenyon College, bringing expertise in scientific writing. He adapts Graff and Birkenstein’s approaches to scientific contexts, offering insights into structuring scientific papers.

**Erin Ackerman**  
A contributor to the book, serving as a Social Sciences Librarian and adjunct professor at The College of New Jersey. She applies Graff and Birkenstein’s methods to social science writing and explains the role of literature reviews in the field.

Gerald Graff

Cathy Birkenstein

Adult

Reference/Text Book

Nonfiction

Guide

Study Guide

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Background

They Say / I Say Background

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Part 1: “They Say”

Part 1 They Say / I Say Part 1 Summary & Analysis

Part 2: “I Say”

Part 2 They Say / I Say Part 2 Summary & Analysis

Part 3: “Tying It All Together”

Part 3 They Say / I Say Part 3 Summary & Analysis

Part 4: “In Specific Academic Settings”

Part 4 They Say / I Say Part 4 Summary & Analysis

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Themes

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Index of Terms

They Say / I Say Index of Terms

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Essay Topics

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They Say / I Say: The Moves That Matter in Academic Writing

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