Carmen Solis
Dr. Hughes
I never like been in an English class because it felt that I need it to put so much effort into writing and express myself in a professional way. I am not that good in neither of those. It has always taken me so much time to develop my own ideas. I have never been able to express what I believe and write it down in a paper in a formal way. But I have been able to conquer what it seem impossible for me thanks to this class. This class has helped me throughout the semester with my grammar and thoughts. I learned how to write formal and express my ideas, but still I have some grammar problems. But I know that with time I am going to be able to fix that problem. My writing has taken a huge step from High School. Over there, they did not taught me how to argue nor do a research paper. But now I have developed a new understanding of what an essay has to be like. It does not need to be close-minded instead one should always encounter and have in mind both of the sides that way one writes a well-thought paper.
I know that I did not speak as much in this class and I need to do that. But I listened and respecting my classmates’ thoughts. It was very interesting how they argued and how everyone has a different opinion about a topic I wish I could have say what I was thinking. I learned many things while I was in the class; I learned about the Southern accent and Ebonics. Many people have different point of view between this two accents even though these two accents are kind of similar. I want to thank Dr. Hughes and my classmates for having teaching me a lot during this semester. I am going to work really hard to be able to reach where I want to be. Thank you, all.
Friday, December 4, 2009
Is It Over Yet?
Steven Holland
Engl 1101
Blog 9
Before taking this class, I had many problems with writing. I never really liked to write. This class made me want to write more and I really got into many of the topics. I have learned that the more I was interested in a topic, the more I could write about it. I also had a problem with procrastinating when I did not want to write. The problem is not completely gone, but it has been greatly reduced. I’ll work on that problem later… I have steadily improved my writing, even if it was a slow improvement. The class itself was fun and exciting and it made me want to come to class. The class discussion format made the class fun and interesting because there was never a dull moment because there was always an argument taking place. I also like the fact that the class discussion format forced everybody to participate so that the same two or three people were not the only ones participating every day. This class also made me realize that I need to consider and respect both sides of every argument before I place myself into an argument. Everybody has their own opinion and they are entitled to it. The same goes in an argument; everybody that is involved in the argument needs to understand everyone else’s side of the argument and respect their opinions.
Engl 1101
Blog 9
Before taking this class, I had many problems with writing. I never really liked to write. This class made me want to write more and I really got into many of the topics. I have learned that the more I was interested in a topic, the more I could write about it. I also had a problem with procrastinating when I did not want to write. The problem is not completely gone, but it has been greatly reduced. I’ll work on that problem later… I have steadily improved my writing, even if it was a slow improvement. The class itself was fun and exciting and it made me want to come to class. The class discussion format made the class fun and interesting because there was never a dull moment because there was always an argument taking place. I also like the fact that the class discussion format forced everybody to participate so that the same two or three people were not the only ones participating every day. This class also made me realize that I need to consider and respect both sides of every argument before I place myself into an argument. Everybody has their own opinion and they are entitled to it. The same goes in an argument; everybody that is involved in the argument needs to understand everyone else’s side of the argument and respect their opinions.
THE END
Leila Shearon
Dr. Hughes
12.4.09
At the beginning of the semester I came into Dr. Hughes’ class unsure in many areas. I lacked in areas like commas, and works cited, and thesis statements. I was not confident in conversation about controversial subjects. I feel as though I have improved in many of these areas. Dr. Hughes beautifully educated the class and I on commas and thesis statements. She also expressed and helped us in correctly citing the works we used within our papers. I feel as though I have learned how to be more open minded. I have learned how to form an effective argument and the most effective way to present it. While we discussed controversial linguistic topics I learned how to take in account the opposing argument to form a better view on the whole aspect and issue. I am definitely more confident in my argumentative skill and writing skills. My grammar has also improved. I am more aware on the importance of standard grammar and linguistic rules. I am more educated on the linguistic controversies of the world. I enjoyed this class immensely. I was very skeptical of my freshman English class but, all my fears were extinguished as the semester continued. It has been a very educational and enjoyable experience. See, learning can be fun.
Dr. Hughes
12.4.09
At the beginning of the semester I came into Dr. Hughes’ class unsure in many areas. I lacked in areas like commas, and works cited, and thesis statements. I was not confident in conversation about controversial subjects. I feel as though I have improved in many of these areas. Dr. Hughes beautifully educated the class and I on commas and thesis statements. She also expressed and helped us in correctly citing the works we used within our papers. I feel as though I have learned how to be more open minded. I have learned how to form an effective argument and the most effective way to present it. While we discussed controversial linguistic topics I learned how to take in account the opposing argument to form a better view on the whole aspect and issue. I am definitely more confident in my argumentative skill and writing skills. My grammar has also improved. I am more aware on the importance of standard grammar and linguistic rules. I am more educated on the linguistic controversies of the world. I enjoyed this class immensely. I was very skeptical of my freshman English class but, all my fears were extinguished as the semester continued. It has been a very educational and enjoyable experience. See, learning can be fun.
Final Blog
Jonathan Dishon
ENG 1101
Dr. Hughes
December 4, 2009
At the beginning of the semester the main problems that I felt that my writings had was a lack of conviction. This was mostly due to the fact that I thought that my writings were never going to be fantastic, but that they would always be bottom of the pack compared to everybody else. This class helped me to trust in my writing and showed that I did not need to follow what everyone else was doing or to take the path that I thought was easiest. Because in actuality the side with which you have the most in common with as far as views go is definitely the easiest path. This is because you are able to actually put yourself into the writing and people are able to see that you truly believe in the subject that you are arguing about. I also knew that in all of my writings the introduction was always subpar and that I would always rely on good body paragraphs to bail me out. Since being in the class though I have seen vast improvements in my writings. I always knew how to write a proper introduction and what it took to make a good one, but not until this class did I ever fully understand and be able to show that I did understand. When it came to the in-class arguments I was usually quiet because I was not really used to arguing in class over stuff that actually mattered. In high-school it was always arguments over dumb stuff that would never actually happen, but in this class we actually debated stuff that were either happening or had happened in the past. That was one thing that I really liked about the class even though I did not put in my two cents about the subject most times. I feel though towards the end of the semester when I started to engage in the arguments which we were doing that my argumentation skills became a lot better. Because not only did I learn to find all the information I could to back up my own side, but I learned to find information that supported the other side and involve it in my argument to show that I have knowledge of the other side as well as my own. I have also made improvements in my ability to think critically about the subject at hand. Critical thinking is a very important facet of writing because it allows you to think in depth about the writing so that you can cover everything that you need to. Since being in this class my goals have not really changed, but the way that I plan on achieving them has. This class has taught me a whole lot about not only writing, but also about ways to achieve things that I want to do, and to believe in what I am writing.
ENG 1101
Dr. Hughes
December 4, 2009
At the beginning of the semester the main problems that I felt that my writings had was a lack of conviction. This was mostly due to the fact that I thought that my writings were never going to be fantastic, but that they would always be bottom of the pack compared to everybody else. This class helped me to trust in my writing and showed that I did not need to follow what everyone else was doing or to take the path that I thought was easiest. Because in actuality the side with which you have the most in common with as far as views go is definitely the easiest path. This is because you are able to actually put yourself into the writing and people are able to see that you truly believe in the subject that you are arguing about. I also knew that in all of my writings the introduction was always subpar and that I would always rely on good body paragraphs to bail me out. Since being in the class though I have seen vast improvements in my writings. I always knew how to write a proper introduction and what it took to make a good one, but not until this class did I ever fully understand and be able to show that I did understand. When it came to the in-class arguments I was usually quiet because I was not really used to arguing in class over stuff that actually mattered. In high-school it was always arguments over dumb stuff that would never actually happen, but in this class we actually debated stuff that were either happening or had happened in the past. That was one thing that I really liked about the class even though I did not put in my two cents about the subject most times. I feel though towards the end of the semester when I started to engage in the arguments which we were doing that my argumentation skills became a lot better. Because not only did I learn to find all the information I could to back up my own side, but I learned to find information that supported the other side and involve it in my argument to show that I have knowledge of the other side as well as my own. I have also made improvements in my ability to think critically about the subject at hand. Critical thinking is a very important facet of writing because it allows you to think in depth about the writing so that you can cover everything that you need to. Since being in this class my goals have not really changed, but the way that I plan on achieving them has. This class has taught me a whole lot about not only writing, but also about ways to achieve things that I want to do, and to believe in what I am writing.
The Journey Past and The Future Ahead
Tyler Benson
12/3/09
Dr. Hughes
English 1101
At the beginning of the semester I struggled with integrating quotes and I had a good bit of grammar based issues. My arguing skills lacked the acknowledgment of the other side and their views along with a scholarly tone rather than an emotional one which I use to have. I have come a long way from these problems and I believe I have conquered some of them thanks to this class, my instructor, and my classmates. Some of the latter problems I am still struggling a bit, but I have improved and I am still trying to improve upon the base I was given due to this class.
Integrating quotes was always a major problem in my research papers in the past and my high school English teachers never really explained it very well to me. Thanks to this class I was able to understand what “dropping a quote” was and how to fix that by introducing an author of a book or work or the company where the work is associated with before quoting that source. I believe I have improved greatly and if I have not completely conquered this problem I am very close and I have improved tenfold.
My grammar was never good in high school and I believe that it is still not all that great right now, but I am striving to fix it. This class helped me with a lot of these grammar issues and my instructor helped me to improve in a number of grammar related issues such as quote grammar, punctuation, sentence structure, and punctuation. My grammar has shown improvement over the class and I am excited to take what I have learned and improve on my grammar further to where it is nearly perfect.
My debate skills have reached an entirely new level as well and it is a level I am very proud of and I could not have done it without my instructor or classmates. In high school I loved to listen to other people and take what they thought, that I agreed with, and molded it into my own understanding on the topic. This ability has travelled to college with me and I have enjoyed listening to everyone’s stance on issues that are present in the world today. I am thrilled to say that I have taken at least one or two things from everyone in the class and I have applied it to my beliefs and thoughts. If not for my classmates and my instructor I would not be able to access this knowledge. I have also learned how to acknowledge the credible arguments of the other side of a debate and give credit where credit is due. In the past I was stubborn and refused to even acknowledge any of the opposite side’s thoughts even if they were good.
This class has established a base that I will always cherish and use in my classes to come. I want to thank my classmates and instructor for giving me this opportunity to better myself in my academics and my thought process. It is because of you that I am that much more empowered than I was walking into the class. Knowledge is power and I hope I get to keep sharing my knowledge and yours in the future as more than classmates, as friends. Thank you again to you all and I truly appreciate everything the class has taught me.
12/3/09
Dr. Hughes
English 1101
At the beginning of the semester I struggled with integrating quotes and I had a good bit of grammar based issues. My arguing skills lacked the acknowledgment of the other side and their views along with a scholarly tone rather than an emotional one which I use to have. I have come a long way from these problems and I believe I have conquered some of them thanks to this class, my instructor, and my classmates. Some of the latter problems I am still struggling a bit, but I have improved and I am still trying to improve upon the base I was given due to this class.
Integrating quotes was always a major problem in my research papers in the past and my high school English teachers never really explained it very well to me. Thanks to this class I was able to understand what “dropping a quote” was and how to fix that by introducing an author of a book or work or the company where the work is associated with before quoting that source. I believe I have improved greatly and if I have not completely conquered this problem I am very close and I have improved tenfold.
My grammar was never good in high school and I believe that it is still not all that great right now, but I am striving to fix it. This class helped me with a lot of these grammar issues and my instructor helped me to improve in a number of grammar related issues such as quote grammar, punctuation, sentence structure, and punctuation. My grammar has shown improvement over the class and I am excited to take what I have learned and improve on my grammar further to where it is nearly perfect.
My debate skills have reached an entirely new level as well and it is a level I am very proud of and I could not have done it without my instructor or classmates. In high school I loved to listen to other people and take what they thought, that I agreed with, and molded it into my own understanding on the topic. This ability has travelled to college with me and I have enjoyed listening to everyone’s stance on issues that are present in the world today. I am thrilled to say that I have taken at least one or two things from everyone in the class and I have applied it to my beliefs and thoughts. If not for my classmates and my instructor I would not be able to access this knowledge. I have also learned how to acknowledge the credible arguments of the other side of a debate and give credit where credit is due. In the past I was stubborn and refused to even acknowledge any of the opposite side’s thoughts even if they were good.
This class has established a base that I will always cherish and use in my classes to come. I want to thank my classmates and instructor for giving me this opportunity to better myself in my academics and my thought process. It is because of you that I am that much more empowered than I was walking into the class. Knowledge is power and I hope I get to keep sharing my knowledge and yours in the future as more than classmates, as friends. Thank you again to you all and I truly appreciate everything the class has taught me.
Last and Final Blog!! Self Assessment
Jennifer Conley
Ms. Hughes
4 December 2009
Starting out at YHC my writing skills were definitely not where they needed to be and it was honestly part of the reason I could not go to my first choice college. Although I was disappointed about that I was still very excited about college life, but was dreading the horror stories of college papers. However, now that my first semester is over, I can say that those stories were only stories. From this class I have learned that I had more writing problems than I thought because none of my high school English teachers were ever hard on us outside of grammatical mistakes. Writers block has always been one of my biggest problems and sometimes still can be. Although, I have learned the more research I have, and the more I pay attention in class and to the readings, writing is a lot easier. Word choice was probably the worst issue that I have started to overcome. With the help of Microsoft Word’s thesaurus at first, I have learned many new words that are more acceptable in formal papers and I now use them without having to have help from the thesaurus. I have also learned a great deal from class discussions as well. Discussing our class readings and having the ability to talk or debate about them has improved my critical thinking and has opened me to new beliefs regarding certain subjects. This has greatly improved argumentation in my papers which has really improved some of the few writing strategies I have gained. However, I do not think my comfort level in those class discussions has improved a whole lot. I know at the beginning of the semester I did not talk at all and I do talk now, but I do not debate about the controversial subjects only because I do not want to get too caught up in the debate. I do believe however, it shows in my papers. I have done more writings for this class alone than any of my other classes and it has taught me to not procrastinate. I now set goals of when I want certain things done and try to get them done by that time, if another assignment does not come up in that time, which I think is impossible to avoid. I have also learned to not hate or dread writing papers. Most of the subjects brought up in class have kept my attention even if I was not that interested in them and having an interest in what you are writing really shows and stands out. Although my next English class will be a little harder and will expect more, I hope that it will keep me just as interested and willing to write like this class did. I also hope I do as good or better in my next class now that I have experienced my first semester and know what professors are expecting to read now.
Ms. Hughes
4 December 2009
Starting out at YHC my writing skills were definitely not where they needed to be and it was honestly part of the reason I could not go to my first choice college. Although I was disappointed about that I was still very excited about college life, but was dreading the horror stories of college papers. However, now that my first semester is over, I can say that those stories were only stories. From this class I have learned that I had more writing problems than I thought because none of my high school English teachers were ever hard on us outside of grammatical mistakes. Writers block has always been one of my biggest problems and sometimes still can be. Although, I have learned the more research I have, and the more I pay attention in class and to the readings, writing is a lot easier. Word choice was probably the worst issue that I have started to overcome. With the help of Microsoft Word’s thesaurus at first, I have learned many new words that are more acceptable in formal papers and I now use them without having to have help from the thesaurus. I have also learned a great deal from class discussions as well. Discussing our class readings and having the ability to talk or debate about them has improved my critical thinking and has opened me to new beliefs regarding certain subjects. This has greatly improved argumentation in my papers which has really improved some of the few writing strategies I have gained. However, I do not think my comfort level in those class discussions has improved a whole lot. I know at the beginning of the semester I did not talk at all and I do talk now, but I do not debate about the controversial subjects only because I do not want to get too caught up in the debate. I do believe however, it shows in my papers. I have done more writings for this class alone than any of my other classes and it has taught me to not procrastinate. I now set goals of when I want certain things done and try to get them done by that time, if another assignment does not come up in that time, which I think is impossible to avoid. I have also learned to not hate or dread writing papers. Most of the subjects brought up in class have kept my attention even if I was not that interested in them and having an interest in what you are writing really shows and stands out. Although my next English class will be a little harder and will expect more, I hope that it will keep me just as interested and willing to write like this class did. I also hope I do as good or better in my next class now that I have experienced my first semester and know what professors are expecting to read now.
Thursday, December 3, 2009
Self Assessment
Carol Raterman
Language Controversies has been a very interesting class with all of the discussions we have had about different subjects we have read. This class has helped me realize my strengths and weaknesses I possess. I have always had trouble transitioning from one paragraph to the next in anything I write. Grammar has never been one of my strong points.
At the beginning of this semester, I had difficulties being able to write a thesis statement, opening paragraph, a conclusion paragraph, and my transitions. By the end of the semester, I feel that I have become a stronger writer by orgaizing my thoughts, introducing new ideas and transitioning my thoughts.
I feel as though I have improved in argumentation because I have had so many opportunities to defend my point. Defending your point is only one part of the argumentation. The second part of argumentation includes thinking how the other side would possibly make their case and be prepared for whatever they will say to you. Arguing a point involves preparing your own case, thinking about what the other side would mention, and then present the argument. Before this class, I did not think about preparing the other side’s argument. This class has helped me learn different ways people think and different ways people act.
As we read more articles as it got later in the semester, I feel as though my critical thinking skills improved. Before this class I would just read the article, it seemed like I was just looking at the words, and it would take me two times before I knew I would comprehend what I was reading. Now I feel like it is easier to read and comprehend articles.
I feel very comfortable with adding to the class discussions. When I am more interested in the subject or if I am avid about a topic, I contribute more to the conversation. At the beginning of the semester, I felt like I was not very strong in the subject of English. Now I think English is one of my favorite subjects. I have found where my strong points and my weaknesses are in the subject of English.
Language Controversies has been a very interesting class with all of the discussions we have had about different subjects we have read. This class has helped me realize my strengths and weaknesses I possess. I have always had trouble transitioning from one paragraph to the next in anything I write. Grammar has never been one of my strong points.
At the beginning of this semester, I had difficulties being able to write a thesis statement, opening paragraph, a conclusion paragraph, and my transitions. By the end of the semester, I feel that I have become a stronger writer by orgaizing my thoughts, introducing new ideas and transitioning my thoughts.
I feel as though I have improved in argumentation because I have had so many opportunities to defend my point. Defending your point is only one part of the argumentation. The second part of argumentation includes thinking how the other side would possibly make their case and be prepared for whatever they will say to you. Arguing a point involves preparing your own case, thinking about what the other side would mention, and then present the argument. Before this class, I did not think about preparing the other side’s argument. This class has helped me learn different ways people think and different ways people act.
As we read more articles as it got later in the semester, I feel as though my critical thinking skills improved. Before this class I would just read the article, it seemed like I was just looking at the words, and it would take me two times before I knew I would comprehend what I was reading. Now I feel like it is easier to read and comprehend articles.
I feel very comfortable with adding to the class discussions. When I am more interested in the subject or if I am avid about a topic, I contribute more to the conversation. At the beginning of the semester, I felt like I was not very strong in the subject of English. Now I think English is one of my favorite subjects. I have found where my strong points and my weaknesses are in the subject of English.
Mary Elizabeth Lowe
English 1101
Dr. Hughes
November 23, 2009
Over the past semester I have enjoyed this class a great deal and I believe that I have learned quite a bit about grammar, debate and a variety of language issues. Prior to this course my argumentation was rather weak and far from concise. Also, I have learned the importance of acknowledging all aspects of an argument, even those with which I do not necessarily agree. While learning and writing about the other side of an issue, my own preconceived ideas are on occasion weakened, but usually, my initial beliefs are strengthened. Similarly, while arguing a point, my audience will be more likely to accept and respect my point of view if I take an educated, bold stand and point out the competing viewpoints which are often times very valid. This ensures the readers that I am not simply ignorant to other’s beliefs, but I recognize them, in spite of my disagreement.
Another key component of persuasive writing is enforcing my own ideas with the opinions and research of esteemed experts in a particular subject matter. Adding quotes and statistics signifies to the reader that I am not simply tossing out random ideas on a whim, but that my work is creditable. Furthermore, as the semester has progressed my knowledge of proper quotation and citation usage has greatly improved.
I am not a “big fan” of class discussions, I am more of a small group type of person; however, if I am required to publicly voice my opinion I have no objection doing so as this class has prompted. Overall, the topics of this class have been interesting, especially the unit on sign language and bilingual ballots. My knowledge of these issues has broadened and I have been allowed to research a great deal which I thoroughly enjoy. My own beliefs have stayed relatively constant, but I have appreciated and benefited from hearing other people’s opinions throughout the semester and I look forward to other challenging English classes in the future.
English 1101
Dr. Hughes
November 23, 2009
Over the past semester I have enjoyed this class a great deal and I believe that I have learned quite a bit about grammar, debate and a variety of language issues. Prior to this course my argumentation was rather weak and far from concise. Also, I have learned the importance of acknowledging all aspects of an argument, even those with which I do not necessarily agree. While learning and writing about the other side of an issue, my own preconceived ideas are on occasion weakened, but usually, my initial beliefs are strengthened. Similarly, while arguing a point, my audience will be more likely to accept and respect my point of view if I take an educated, bold stand and point out the competing viewpoints which are often times very valid. This ensures the readers that I am not simply ignorant to other’s beliefs, but I recognize them, in spite of my disagreement.
Another key component of persuasive writing is enforcing my own ideas with the opinions and research of esteemed experts in a particular subject matter. Adding quotes and statistics signifies to the reader that I am not simply tossing out random ideas on a whim, but that my work is creditable. Furthermore, as the semester has progressed my knowledge of proper quotation and citation usage has greatly improved.
I am not a “big fan” of class discussions, I am more of a small group type of person; however, if I am required to publicly voice my opinion I have no objection doing so as this class has prompted. Overall, the topics of this class have been interesting, especially the unit on sign language and bilingual ballots. My knowledge of these issues has broadened and I have been allowed to research a great deal which I thoroughly enjoy. My own beliefs have stayed relatively constant, but I have appreciated and benefited from hearing other people’s opinions throughout the semester and I look forward to other challenging English classes in the future.
What I Have Learned
Jackie Hand
Dr. Hughes
December 3, 2009
Language controversies has helped me in a number of ways. Through this class, I have learned to look at both sides of an argument before reaching a decision. Also, I now know that it is of great importance to recognize both sides of the argument when presenting my side. By recognizing both sides, I can make myself look intelligent and like I really have passion for the issue. This is because it will be evident that I have researched the topic in depth. Also, I have learned a lot about language. I never would have considered sign language as a completely different language, but I do now. I never knew of so many things that have gone on because of what someone speaks. I learned about the Native Americans as well as African Americans and so much more. The debating we did in class was also a help to me. Through that I believe I became a better reasearcher and presenter. This class has really helped to broaden my horizons in a sense that I am more knowledgeable about current as well as past issues. I am extremely pleased that I decided to take this course, and I have thoroughly enjoyed it. Thank you Dr. Hughes for making learning fun!
Dr. Hughes
December 3, 2009
Language controversies has helped me in a number of ways. Through this class, I have learned to look at both sides of an argument before reaching a decision. Also, I now know that it is of great importance to recognize both sides of the argument when presenting my side. By recognizing both sides, I can make myself look intelligent and like I really have passion for the issue. This is because it will be evident that I have researched the topic in depth. Also, I have learned a lot about language. I never would have considered sign language as a completely different language, but I do now. I never knew of so many things that have gone on because of what someone speaks. I learned about the Native Americans as well as African Americans and so much more. The debating we did in class was also a help to me. Through that I believe I became a better reasearcher and presenter. This class has really helped to broaden my horizons in a sense that I am more knowledgeable about current as well as past issues. I am extremely pleased that I decided to take this course, and I have thoroughly enjoyed it. Thank you Dr. Hughes for making learning fun!
My Progression
I have always loved to express my ideas on paper in one of my writings. This class was a perfect fit for just that. I came into the semester as a self-proclaimed "good" writer, but as we progressed week by week, I could see improvements in essays.
At the beginning of this semester, I encountered problems with simple mistakes such as using informal language in my writing. I would write in the colloquial manner instead of professionally. Simple mistakes such as using the language in which it seemed I speak in an everyday manner really seemed to take a toll on my essay writing. The semester continued to move on and I continued to grow and learn as a writer. I began to use formal language which I quickly began to realize, even when proofreading my own work, gains a lot of respect from the reader. Although I believe that I have essentially gotten rid of colloquial language, I still feel like I struggle with it from time to time.
In argumentation, I feel more confident in standing for what I truly believe in. I feel like before this class I would just as easily give on some other person's standpoint. The debate helped me gain the confidence I was seeking when trying to stand for a subject a strongly believe in. The in-class writings also were a huge factor in the sense that I could argue a point easier in the privacy of my own essay. Finishing with the verbal debates around the circle allowed me to put in a touch of my own feelings that I expressed in my in-class writing.
I love to talk to friends, peers, teachers, and anyone with the will to listen to me. In high school, I was a bit wild in all of my classes and I would never stop talking or trying to make the class laugh. Coming into this class I expected to talk quite a bit, especially with it being a language controversies class. Although this was the case, I never actually put myself out there in conversation. I just felt like the people in the class were just fine with me keeping quite and thoughts to myself. It seemed as if the class had all the people they needed to partake in debate so I was unneeded. I know that this is not the case at all, but I wish I would have put my ideas out for discussion instead of to myself.
My goals and attitudes have altered throughout this semester. While I was focused on running cross country, I also had a sense of focusing harder on my schoolwork than I ever had. Toward the middle of the semester schoolwork seemed pointless to me. I had yet to come to the realization that everything I do here affects me for the rest of my life. The past few weeks have seemed a lot more meaningful to me. I have focused more on school and how this will help me in the long run. Overall, this class was the most helpful in helping me find my way in school and the passion I need to have in every class I take in college.
At the beginning of this semester, I encountered problems with simple mistakes such as using informal language in my writing. I would write in the colloquial manner instead of professionally. Simple mistakes such as using the language in which it seemed I speak in an everyday manner really seemed to take a toll on my essay writing. The semester continued to move on and I continued to grow and learn as a writer. I began to use formal language which I quickly began to realize, even when proofreading my own work, gains a lot of respect from the reader. Although I believe that I have essentially gotten rid of colloquial language, I still feel like I struggle with it from time to time.
In argumentation, I feel more confident in standing for what I truly believe in. I feel like before this class I would just as easily give on some other person's standpoint. The debate helped me gain the confidence I was seeking when trying to stand for a subject a strongly believe in. The in-class writings also were a huge factor in the sense that I could argue a point easier in the privacy of my own essay. Finishing with the verbal debates around the circle allowed me to put in a touch of my own feelings that I expressed in my in-class writing.
I love to talk to friends, peers, teachers, and anyone with the will to listen to me. In high school, I was a bit wild in all of my classes and I would never stop talking or trying to make the class laugh. Coming into this class I expected to talk quite a bit, especially with it being a language controversies class. Although this was the case, I never actually put myself out there in conversation. I just felt like the people in the class were just fine with me keeping quite and thoughts to myself. It seemed as if the class had all the people they needed to partake in debate so I was unneeded. I know that this is not the case at all, but I wish I would have put my ideas out for discussion instead of to myself.
My goals and attitudes have altered throughout this semester. While I was focused on running cross country, I also had a sense of focusing harder on my schoolwork than I ever had. Toward the middle of the semester schoolwork seemed pointless to me. I had yet to come to the realization that everything I do here affects me for the rest of my life. The past few weeks have seemed a lot more meaningful to me. I have focused more on school and how this will help me in the long run. Overall, this class was the most helpful in helping me find my way in school and the passion I need to have in every class I take in college.
Wednesday, December 2, 2009
Self-Assessment Blog!
Dear All,
For your FINAL blog, please write between 300-600 words discussing your progress in the class. You should consider questions such as:
For your FINAL blog, please write between 300-600 words discussing your progress in the class. You should consider questions such as:
- What kinds of problems did you have with writing at the beginning of the semester?
- Which of these problems have you eliminated from your writing, and which you still struggle with?
- Do you think you have improved in argumentation?
- In critical thinking?
- How is your comfort level with regard to adding to class conversation?
- How have your goals and attitudes changed since you've finished your first semester?
Keep in mind that it would be tremendously ironic if you were to discuss how much you have improved, but then made errors in this little essay! That is, be sure that this essay represents the best writing you can do. Write carefully and thoughtfully -- and be sure to edit your own writing!
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