When class first started, I didn’t think that I would like it or didn’t think that I would benefit from it. As the weeks started passing, I realized that I’ve made improvements in my writing without recognizing it. My progress in University 150 has improved a lot. I have made progress in this class by writing journals, completing two essays and presenting my presentation in class.
To start off with, writing journals has helped me practice my writing skills. Journals are basically free writing which help create inspiration, build muscle memory and it’s just good practice. When writing journals, you don’t have to worry about editing or revising, you just go with the flow. Putting the pen to the paper and letting words appear on the paper as they come to your mind is a great way for practicing brain storming. My instructor also reads over the journals to correct any mistakes which helps me learn how to correct them. Each time I write a journal, I get better and better at them by creating less mistakes. Getting less errors proves to me that free writing can help build those writing skills and turn those weaknesses into strengths.
Next, I’ve written two essays and I’ve gotten my first one back. I received an A for my first essay and I couldn’t have been more excited although it was only worth five points. During my drafts, I made many mistakes but once I corrected them, I only had one mistake on my final. The WSPT rubric helps me recognize my strengths and weaknesses as a writer in my essays. A few things I need to work on is pronoun/antecedent and shift in person. I know that for my second essay I’m going to have to work a little harder because it’s worth a couple of more points than the first one. Applying what I know is the right way to do things to my second essay will help me strive to get the A that I want.
Lastly, I presented my presentation on the bookstore. Talking in front of people or audiences has never been a strength of mine because I’m shy. But, presenting wasn’t as bad as I thought it was going to be since I’m in a smaller class and I had a partner to help me. I felt like I’ve gained respect and confidence from my classmates because they were giving me eye contact and not having side conversations while I was talking. My speaking skills are improving slowly but surely. Some tips I want to work on next time I present in front of people is trying to look up while talking and interacting with the audience to get their attention.
To conclude, I hope this class helps me move on to English 110 and pass the WSPT. I’ve been learning new writing skills everyday I come to class. I will try to apply those skills and tips to my future essays and writings to help benefit me as a writer. So far, the journals, essays and presentations has helped me build confidence for this writing class.