Spend some time reflecting on your writing and your goals in this journal assignment by answering the three sets of questions below. Each answer should be a paragraph. A rubric is attached. 1. In what ways have you developed as a writer in our class? Which of the actions from the bullet list below did you do as you were working on your comparison and contrast essay? 2. Based upon your graded comparison and contrast essay, which areas do you need to improve on as you work on your argument research essay? What specific actions will you take to improve? Refer to the bullet list of actions below for ideas. 3. What were the S.M.A.R.T.E.R. goals you set for yourself at the beginning of the semester? Evaluate your progress. Are you on track to reach them, or do you need to make some adjustments? What adjustments are you going to make?
Sample Answer
Reflective Journal Entry
1. Development as a Writer
Throughout this class, I have honed my writing skills by focusing on clarity, structure, and incorporating research effectively. In my comparison and contrast essay, I utilized the following actions:
– Conducted thorough research to support my arguments.
– Drafted an outline to organize my ideas cohesively.
– Revised multiple drafts to refine my arguments and enhance clarity.
2. Areas for Improvement
In reviewing my graded comparison and contrast essay, I identified the need to strengthen my thesis statement’s specificity and ensure a clearer connection between my arguments and the overarching topic. To improve in my argument research essay, I will:
– Craft a precise and focused thesis statement that guides the entire essay.
– Enhance transitions between paragraphs to ensure a seamless flow of ideas.
– Provide more in-depth analysis and critical engagement with sources to strengthen arguments.
3. S.M.A.R.T.E.R. Goal Evaluation
At the beginning of the semester, I set the following S.M.A.R.T.E.R. goals:
– Specific: Improve research skills by incorporating diverse sources.
– Measurable: Complete all assignments on time and seek feedback for improvement.
– Achievable: Enhance writing clarity and coherence through consistent practice.
– Relevant: Apply learned writing techniques to real-world scenarios.
– Time-bound: Submit all assignments before deadlines to allow time for revisions.
– Evaluate: Reflect on feedback and implement suggested revisions.
– Readjust: Adapt writing strategies based on feedback and self-assessment.
As I reflect on my progress, I have made significant strides in meeting my goals by actively engaging with course materials, seeking feedback from instructors, and submitting assignments punctually. To stay on track and further improve, I plan to allocate more time for pre-writing activities, such as brainstorming and outlining, to ensure a stronger foundation for my argument research essay. Additionally, I will continue to seek feedback proactively and implement suggested revisions to enhance the quality of my writing further.