Instructions: Read the topic for each essay. Then review the class notes, your prep notes and responses, and any other notes, drafts or writing you have, looking for evidence related to the essay question.
Essay One:
The first goal of our class listed on the policy syllabus is: “Utilize writing as a tool for learning and reflection.”
How have you experienced learning through your own writing? Write an essay in which you identify two different learning moments that happened for you through writing. Be sure to quote yourself (and link to the quote where it appears on the blog, if possible.) For each moment you choose, explain how this represents learning to you, and define or categorize the learning. What can you conclude about the relationship between writing and learning?
(hint: be sure to look at your compost heap and paper drafts)
Essay Two:
Consider this quote from the LA Times article by the anthropologist studying nighttime stories:
From these stories, mostly about the adventures of known people, the multigenerational audience could glean information about the workings of their society, the rules of marriage and kinship, and learn regional traditions. Also, through hearing about the experiences of other people, the listeners gained empathy, Wiessner said.
Identify a specific personal story you have heard or read this semester that taught you something about your society. Describe the story and where you heard/read it. Then analyze the story to show what exactly it taught you about your society, and how it accomplished the teaching. (You may not use the same story you analyzed from Writing Our Way Out).
Extra credit question: (3 points)
Consider either the authors’ visit or the burial ground field trip. What did you learn from the experience that caused you to re-think something from Writing Our Way Out or Richmond’s Unhealed History? Be sure to point to the quote or section from the book you are describing.