Minimum 2 pages (in WORD DOC or PAGES format), respond to assigned readings (double-spaced, APA format, 7th edition). This paper is to demonstrate that you have completed and thought about the weekly readings and provide you forum to engage, in some depth, an idea or set of ideas that interest you. This will help you develop an argument and to effectively communicate in written form.
Each of these papers should be centered on a thesis or arguable claim, and should contain a focused analysis of one or two particular problems, questions, or common themes in the readings.
Your paper can be either reflecting the author’s main argument or choosing a singular quote and providing your perspective.
These papers (refer to the reflection paper rubric) should connect the week’s readings, interaction with students, and with ongoing themes in the class to earn 50/50 points. I have attached 2 of the assigned the last assigned reading is A Different Mirror: A History of Multicultural America by Ronald Takaki.
Some tips:
Critical reflection requires thoughtful and rigorous inquiry. Although basic questions like “what is the thesis?” and “what is the evidence?” are important to demonstrate your understanding, students are encouraged to interrogate their own notions and knowledge to deepen the analysis and focus the assessment of the text.
Assess the text(s):
1. What is the main point? How is it developed? Identify
the purpose, impact and/or theoretical framework of
the text.
2. What ideas stood out to me? Why? Were they new or
in opposition to existing scholarship?
Develop your ideas:
1. What do I know about this topic? Where does my
existing knowledge come from? What are the
observations or experiences that shape my
understanding?
2. Do I agree or disagree with this argument? Why?
Make connections:
1. How does this text reinforce my existing ideas or
assumptions? How does this text challenge my existing
ideas or assumptions?
2. How does this text help me to better understand this
topic or explore this field of study/discipline?
