Self Reflection Assessment 

      Throughout the semester I have improved and achieved many key skills as a writer. From the beginning to the end of the semester I noticed just how comfortable I’ve become when writing papers, and utilizing the proper tools at the appropriate times. Some of them include finding appropriate and accurate resources, tying my sources to support my arguments, exploring strategies to include in my own work that keep readers engaged, and most importantly just capturing and conveying just how important language is.

      An area that I’ve managed to learn more on and use was locating appropriate resources for a research paper. Which is number six on the list in the syllabus, it reads “Locate research sources (including academic journal article, magazine and newspaper articles) in the library’s databases or archives and on the internet and evaluate them for credibility, accuracy, timeliness, and bias.” I had to do a research paper on an issue in NYC, and it’s titled NYC And The MTA Fares. For my sources I went to the CCNY library website. I had a class session dedicated to teaching us how to properly search for what we’re looking for. It made the process of searching that much easier and efficient because I had learned how to do searches on my topic with just a few words. When doing searches on a particular topic, it is best to minimize the searches to key words instead of questions. I realized that research is easy when it’s done in a constructive manner that isn’t complicated.  

       Another aspect in this course that I’ve learned was to compose clear stances in my writing. I would ensure to summarize key points to make my writing clear. This course learning outcome is number seven on the syllabus, and it reads “Compose texts that integrate a stance with appropriate sources, using strategies such as summary, analysis, synthesis, and argumentation.” In my research essay, NYC And The MTA Fares, I not only mentioned what I had gathered from the sources, but I had also summarized information that I had gathered from various other sources. I would state certain facts and I still managed to make an argument that the increase in the MTA fares was not beneficial for the people of NYC. 

      A third course learning outcome that I felt I had achieved was realizing and really capturing how language can shape people and who they are. This is course learning outcome number one, which states “ Examine how attitudes towards linguistic standards empower and oppress language users.” I wrote a language and literacy narrative called  What It Means To Be Bilingual, and I expressed just how much effect it can have on not only my life but on everyone around me as well. Knowing two languages comes with its pros and cons. But so does only knowing a language that isn’t English, which is the most common language here, can bring people down. It can also bring those that are bilingual more opportunities. There is so much more to being bilingual than just the language itself, but also the responsibilities that come with it and the criticism one gets. 

     The final course learning outcome that I have met was utilizing writing strategies to keep readers engaged. This is number four on the course learning outcome section of the syllabus, and it states “Recognize and practice key rhetorical terms and strategies when engaged in writing situations.” I feel that I met this by the end of the semester because in my narrative What It Means To Be Bilingual I made sure to include descriptive language and reflection to convey my story and how I felt. I described moments in which I would have to be a translator for my mom, and how much pressure it felt, but also telling the story that it is also difficult for the ones asking for help. I included symbols and images to keep the readers engaged.           

     Overall, this course has taught me ways to make my writing more engaging and readable. All of these course learning outcomes have been a stepping stone in my journey throughout this course for the semester. There are many things I still need to work on but I know that I at least took something from this course that will benefit me in the long run.