discussion 1840

I wanted to note the concept of Reflection when it comes to your writing as I think it simplifies the early stages of writing.

What is reflection? In simplest terms, it is thinking over past events as a strategy for informing current and future needs. Although reflection is something we engage in routinely, we may not consciously use it to full and productive effect. Reflection can provide opportunity for us to critically examine our experiences within a context of social forces, historical events, and cultural developments and ideas. As such, reflection can help us place the particular events of an individual life or a particular issue into a larger context. In the composition classroom, reflection can also help with source use. Starting by acknowledging the self as source, we then move on to consider the larger conversations their ideas are part of, as well as where they part ways from others’ interpretations or analyses. Reflective writing, which is the observable form of reflective thinking, provides an opportunity for us to think critically about our positionality—that is, our own stake in the conversation—as it relates to a larger conversation.

We reflect daily, don’t we? Do you remember the “Ebola Scare”? An event like that forces us to reflect on the possible social and health implications–What happens if…? What do I do when…? Sometimes an event that happened to you will inform how you think on a topic like this one–maybe you’ve seen a devastating illness first hand. Reflective writing allows you to bring your voice to the matter at hand.

Writing to reflect includes:

Purpose:
*To share your insights about a subject
*To connect with readers

Readers:
*Want to learn about other ideas and experiences
*Expect a personal treatment of the subject
*Welcome an unusual perspective

Sources:
*Peronal experience and observations are often the major sources for reflective writing.
*Published sources might provide additional information to support a reflection
*Cultural productions, such as music, art, movies, plays, and literature, can inspire reflection.

We can reflect on an endless number of things–the purpose is to dig within yourself and effectively communicate your thoughts and feelings to an audience (in this case, your peers and professor). It’s important to note that when writing a reflection, it is implied that you are the narrator/the voice so you don’t need to write, “I think/I believe/etc” over and over. Simply jump into the sentence without that preface.

Instead of, “I think gas prices are too high.” you would write, “Gas prices are too high.”

To put it simply, reflection should be an outlet of sharing you, your voice and your ideas in an intimate way. You are connected to the text, not removed from it; it’s a part of you.

The ultimate goal,as I see it, is to take Reflection and evolve it into academic/argumentative/research writing.

I want you to watch the YouTube Video, “Where the Hell is Matt?” (located in Module 1).

I then want you to write a paper that is focused on answering this question, “Is this art?”. (Why or Why not?)

You should have a clearly defined Thesis that states where you stand one way or the other.

Construct an argument (Yes, this is art because ______/ No, this is not art because _____ ).

The goal of this paper is to get you to interact with a form of social media and to think critically about it.

paper should be a minimum 750 words