Year-end Reflection
Short answers (300 words maximum each):
When looking at my Unit 3 – 6 portfolio, I see my greatest achievement has been…
…my in-class writing samples and subsequent out-of-class revisions. I think that I have grown substantially in my skills as a writer, and these assignments showcase that. While I felt I had a strong English literature background to begin with, I was able to add an extra layer of analysis that was often missing from my in-class writing at the start of the year. By creating a structural framework for each assignment, I was able to convey more nuanced points that strengthened my writing even as it made the writing process easier. The feedback on my writing reflects this growth too. Each time, I took on board the critique I received — I added organization, length, and depth — and the scores on my revisions reflect this growth from a lower Meeting Expectations to a strong Meeting Expectations, with some categories even Exceeding Expectations. I am especially proud of my Unit 4 Q1 revision for Olive Senior’s poem “Plants.” I feel that my growth over the course of this year is visible in the progressively better quality of work on my blog. As the expectations increased over the course of the year to reflect our learning, I was able to rise to the challenge.
When looking at my feedback on my work and Mastery Data (as found in Schoology), I noticed…
…that there is a consistency in my demonstration of literature skills (as evidenced by my spreadsheet). I received a Meeting Expectations or higher in almost every category. The few Approaching Expectations have been in the area of Respect and Responsibility when I was unable to complete the assignment with the rest of the class due to my absences for international sports competitions. However, I think it is a testament to my character — in particular, my perseverance and dedication — that I was able to catch up on all of the missing assignments, completing them to a high standard. It has been intensely rewarding to finish strong in my senior year.
Considering most of second semester was virtual learning, I’d like to say…
What a year it has been! I am proud of how I have navigated the challenges that have been thrown my way. It hasn’t always been easy! I’ve missed class for field hockey competitions; I’ve missed class on account of the Hong Kong protests; and now we are all dealing with virtual learning as part of the global disruption from the Covid-19 pandemic. Despite it all, I am pleased with my growth in AP Literature this year. No senior slump for me! It did not matter that the classes were virtual. I was an active and involved participant up until the very last class.
When reviewing my goal for Semester 2, I can say that I…
…have achieved my goal of consistency in AP Literature. In the first semester, I fell short of this consistency, particularly in categories C4 and C5, and it hurt my semester grade. An important component of the letter grade rubric is consistent demonstrated mastery, something I believe I have been able to achieve this semester.
A reflection on a Unit 3, 4, or 5 EQ is… (Include the EQ and response)
Unit 3 EQ: How can I refine my voice and style to communicate my messages effectively?
In my time in AP Literature, I have learned that structuring a persuasive piece of writing is nearly as important as the substance of what is being said, for organizational structure allows the writer to immediately improve the effectiveness of communication. Through trial and error, I developed a routine that consistently worked for me. I discovered that I am most successful when I begin with a flow chart and then organize my thought bubbles with a topic sentence for each paragraph. This strategy allows my thoughts — and thus my writing — to flow naturally as I develop my ideas. (On the other end of the spectrum, I have come to dread the formulaic and rigid “Hamburger Model.”)
Voice and style are unique to each writer and what he or she seeks to share in his or her writing. Personally, when I write, I strive for my voice to demonstrate clarity and knowledge. By focusing on the basics, I have been able to develop the skills required to construct complex arguments. While there is still plenty of room for me to improve, I believe that in AP Literature, I have demonstrated a natural writing style (if a bit formal!) that is structured and persuasive.
Thank you for a wonderful experience in AP Literature to conclude my high school journey. I am most certainly better prepared for college as a result of my time in your class.
