The introduction of They Say, I Say by Gerald Graff and Cathy Birkenstein outlines the basic template of the authors’ approach to rhetorical writing. The central template the book focuses on is “they say, I say”, as the title suggests. This technique requires the writer to assess and evaluate the author’s argument and paraphrase it in his or her own words. Then, the writer must respond to the argument with her own stance, provide evidence, and formulate an opinion. By going through this process, the writer is forced to think critically and read closely, improving not only their own opinion, but also a better understanding of the original piece and the original author’s ideas. This exchange of ideas helps the writer to engage the reader in a