PORTFOLIO REVISION PROMPT
You have already explored the origins of a habit you have. For this revision use the middle section of your original draft—the argument for its cause. Have a look at the PH book’s Afterword and Appendix (pp. 275-98). Using Duhigg’s method of analyzing causes, the “Framework” on p. 288, work through the first three steps for your own habit. You will re-create his experiment in order to determine the habit loop: “Identify the routine,” “Experiment with rewards,” and “Isolate the cue” (including “Location,” “Time,” “Emotional state,” “Other people,” and “Immediately preceding action”—see p. 295). If your habit is a bad one, also “Have a plan.”
Take notes and provide your actual data in an appendix (see for instance, his first-three-words notes on p. 291 and his lists of questions on p. 295). Once you have enough data (do at least four days of experimentation), compile it and analyze it to determine your habit loop.
The first section of your paper should explain your habit and then address your methods in determining the habit loop. Explain fully what you did and when, giving specific examples of factors that you changed as you tried different combinations of potential causal elements.
Now compare and contrast your original “cause” with your new findings. Does the original theory hold? Why or why not? Do you think that Duhigg’s experiment makes sense? Why or why not?
If your habit is bad, formulate a plan to rid yourself of it, using what you have learned from your newly discovered habit loop. If your habit is good, analyze how you were able to establish it and formulate a plan to apply these steps to a habit you wish to change.
Your only source for this paper should be the Duhigg PH book. Add “Work Cited” page with correct MLA style for the entry.
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For the revision you are not just adding to your original paper, but using the information in it (and perhaps some of the wording) to enhance your newly expanded insight on the habit loop. Follow this prompt and use pieces of the old paper for “beefing up” your new argument as you discuss the results of your experimentation. Your thesis / claim should address the cause of your habit (different than you’d originally thought? same, but with additional evidence?). The structure above is fairly formulaic, but you may discuss your results in any order you like.
Grading criteria will be the same for all three choices: the “A” paper will demonstrate . . .
* close adherence to the prompt,
* strong claim / thesis,
* coherent structure with points in their best order,
* specificity and abundance of illustrative detail (“proof”),
* solid analysis of examples,
* sophistication of introduction and conclusion (conclusion should show added
insight from having gone through the steps of your argument;
work for a compelling “clincher”)
* correct MLA format for Works Cited page,
* as always, commendable grammar / diction / spelling.
If you used this paper for the Portfolio Peer Review, include the peer review sheet and marked-up draft (worth 5 pts.).
