Copyediting

Worksheet Description

This worksheet introduces the concept of copyediting, emphasizing its similarity to proofreading in that it does not involve changing the content of the text but rather correcting errors within it. It suggests that copyediting is most effective when performed by someone not overly familiar with the text, enabling them to easily identify mistakes. The worksheet provides a checklist of common errors to look for, including spelling, grammar, punctuation, and other aspects of writing. Students are instructed to trade papers with a classmate and mark the errors they find, indicating the type of error next to the text.

The worksheet is designed to teach students the practice of copyediting by engaging them in an active review of another student’s writing. The checklist guides them through a comprehensive editing process that covers various levels of the text, from spelling and grammar to more complex issues like syntax and consistency of style. By marking the errors on a classmate’s paper, students learn to identify and categorize common writing mistakes. This collaborative activity not only improves their editing skills but also fosters a deeper understanding of the importance of clear and correct writing.