Reflection

Making a Difference

Composition Writing II has made me realize why I’m often misunderstood.  I am now aware of the fact that I did not know how to effectively communicate verbally, nor in writing.   The funniest and weirdest thing is that I’ve always and still do enjoy writing, but I had always considered myself a pretty decent writer.  Boy was I way off base on that one.  There is so much more to writing than just knowing how to make a complete sentence or using proper grammar.

Writing is something we do every day.  Whether it be writing a recipe, take a phone message, writing directions, taking an order at a restaurant, or leaving a list of instructions for the baby sitter, it all involves writing.  Writing to persuade or inform is altogether different. 

I have learned that writing on an academic level requires and introduction to the thesis of points to be discussed.  Citing sources and referencing your information (APA style) is a big deal in academia.  Failure to cite is plagiarism and could potentially affect a student’s performance.  I now have a better understanding of using short paragraphs as an intro to my next point.  This is so much better than having many points and paragraphs all jumbled together where nothing makes sense, which is what I use to do.  I understand the meaning of “sometimes less is better.”

 Additionally, using Kaplan’s outlining tools helped me to develop my thesis and keep my paragraphs flowing in a chronological order.  Using the outlining tool during the pre-writing process turned out to be more effective than the paper graphic organizers I was use to using.  As a matter of fact, during this course was the first time I ever used the Writing Center, and when I received my essay back, they used paragraph outlining to help me better organize my paragraphs.  This will definitely be my preferred method for pre-writing as well as editing and revising.

Wherever my future may lead, I have now developed skills in this class that will assist me whether I’m trying to organize a community to get involved in fighting obesity, or putting together a business plan for a program, or perhaps trying to persuade a school to serve more improved school meals, I feel confident enough to know that I have acquired a certain level of knowledge and skills that can be used in every aspect of my life, personally and professionally.

I’ve enjoyed every aspect of this course and my classmates in particular.   Everyone brought something that someone could use, no matter how small or large.  We were all trying to get to the same place.  A place where we could become better individuals with the skills and knowledge of knowing how to create expression through communication.  This is writing in its simplest form.  I appreciated all feedback from peers and well as Professor Parent.  I took it all as positive and another step towards getting better.

Be Blessed!

Anita