Saturday, January 31, 2009
Journal Entry
I just finished the chapter reads, exercises, mindmaps and summaries for weeks 3-5. Now I can focus on trying to think of a topic for my first essay. The Narrative, Descriptive and Reflective Writing essay! I have a few ideas, but I am trying to think of an experience that has a lot of detail, but not too much! Hmmmm...... I don't know. I will just have to rack my brain to think of something! We'll see what I come up with. That's all for now.
Chapter 11 - Description and Reflection - Exercise
“The College Writer”: Chapter 11 – Description and Reflection – Exercise
“Call Me Crazy, But I Have To Be Myself” – Reading for Better Writing – Page 159-160
1. What purpose does Seymour identify for writing the essay? What other purposes might be served by publishing this piece for Newsweek’s readers?
Seymour states the reason why she is writing this essay is to tell about and show who her “true” self is. She is tired of hiding part of herself from the world. By publishing this piece in Newsweek, readers with the same issue may realize that they are not alone; that there are people with the same bipolar disorder and that it is possible to live a normal life. It is possible for a person with bipolar disorder to be a functioning part of society. There are many things that can help; medication, therapy, etc.
2. The writer starts with one category label for herself (“mentally ill”) and then quickly adds another (“functional member of society”). How does this second label redefine the first?
I think by identifying herself as both mentally ill and a functioning member of society shows that there are different levels of the “mentally ill”; just because you have a disorder of the mind does not mean that you are less than. I think that when you first read her first label of “mentally ill”, you think of a crazy person who is incapable of anything but being crazy. Then you she labels herself as a “functional member of society” you feel like she becomes more of a “normal” person; a person in which everyone can relate to.
3. Description is used to support many other kinds of writing, including the types of analytical and persuasive writing outlined here in The College Writer. In what other chapters could this essay have been included, and how do you know?
I think this essay could also be included in chapters regarding narrative, descriptive, reflective, analytical and persuasive writing. This is already apart of the narrative, descriptive and reflective chapters. The reason I think it can be in the chapter regarding analytical writing is because the author, Seymour is analyzing herself and her situation is this essay. I have yet to read the analytical writing chapters, but I will assume that will be the directions given, is to analyze. The reason I see this essay fit for the chapter on persuasive writing is because the author is sort of persuading you to see that a person with a mental disorder can still be considered a normal functioning part of society. She is taking a position and asking the readers to see that position too. This essay could probably also go into the report writing chapter and the research chapter if some more information was added. Like if the author of this essay had added some experiments, field reports, or added some research done on people with bipolar disorder in society.
4. Review the section of this book on “Editing and Proofreading” (pages 83-98), especially the portion on biased words. Why does Seymour use the phrase “call me crazy”? Is her use of the word biased or insulting? Explain.
I believe Seymour used the phrase “call me crazy” because she feels like people may perceive her that way for telling her story or that bipolar disorder means that a person is “crazy.” I personally don’t think her use of the word “crazy” is showing a bias or being insulting, but according to the “Editing and Proofreading” pages in this book, it may be a biased word. On page 95, it talks about words referring to conditions. The word “crazy” is not on the list, but the book does say, for example, you should not write “cripple”, but instead write, “person who has difficulty walking.” So after seeing that, maybe Seymour should have said something like, “a person with a mental disorder” or something close to that. But for me personally, I took no offense to the word “crazy.”
“Call Me Crazy, But I Have To Be Myself” – Reading for Better Writing – Page 159-160
1. What purpose does Seymour identify for writing the essay? What other purposes might be served by publishing this piece for Newsweek’s readers?
Seymour states the reason why she is writing this essay is to tell about and show who her “true” self is. She is tired of hiding part of herself from the world. By publishing this piece in Newsweek, readers with the same issue may realize that they are not alone; that there are people with the same bipolar disorder and that it is possible to live a normal life. It is possible for a person with bipolar disorder to be a functioning part of society. There are many things that can help; medication, therapy, etc.
2. The writer starts with one category label for herself (“mentally ill”) and then quickly adds another (“functional member of society”). How does this second label redefine the first?
I think by identifying herself as both mentally ill and a functioning member of society shows that there are different levels of the “mentally ill”; just because you have a disorder of the mind does not mean that you are less than. I think that when you first read her first label of “mentally ill”, you think of a crazy person who is incapable of anything but being crazy. Then you she labels herself as a “functional member of society” you feel like she becomes more of a “normal” person; a person in which everyone can relate to.
3. Description is used to support many other kinds of writing, including the types of analytical and persuasive writing outlined here in The College Writer. In what other chapters could this essay have been included, and how do you know?
I think this essay could also be included in chapters regarding narrative, descriptive, reflective, analytical and persuasive writing. This is already apart of the narrative, descriptive and reflective chapters. The reason I think it can be in the chapter regarding analytical writing is because the author, Seymour is analyzing herself and her situation is this essay. I have yet to read the analytical writing chapters, but I will assume that will be the directions given, is to analyze. The reason I see this essay fit for the chapter on persuasive writing is because the author is sort of persuading you to see that a person with a mental disorder can still be considered a normal functioning part of society. She is taking a position and asking the readers to see that position too. This essay could probably also go into the report writing chapter and the research chapter if some more information was added. Like if the author of this essay had added some experiments, field reports, or added some research done on people with bipolar disorder in society.
4. Review the section of this book on “Editing and Proofreading” (pages 83-98), especially the portion on biased words. Why does Seymour use the phrase “call me crazy”? Is her use of the word biased or insulting? Explain.
I believe Seymour used the phrase “call me crazy” because she feels like people may perceive her that way for telling her story or that bipolar disorder means that a person is “crazy.” I personally don’t think her use of the word “crazy” is showing a bias or being insulting, but according to the “Editing and Proofreading” pages in this book, it may be a biased word. On page 95, it talks about words referring to conditions. The word “crazy” is not on the list, but the book does say, for example, you should not write “cripple”, but instead write, “person who has difficulty walking.” So after seeing that, maybe Seymour should have said something like, “a person with a mental disorder” or something close to that. But for me personally, I took no offense to the word “crazy.”
Chapter 11 - Description and Reflection - Summary
“The College Writer”: Chapter 11 – Description and Reflection – Summary
This chapter is very similar to the last (Narration and Description). You are still going to be writing an essay on a personal experience, but you are also going to be reflecting on that experience and why it is important in your life. You need to write about something that is a memorable experience; one worth reflecting upon. You reader need to pick up on that and understand why you reflect back on this experience. You need to be honest and show the reader all of the emotion that is attached to this experience. Even if you were embarrassed or felt a great deal of pain, you need to portray this to your reader. This experience may be a time when you felt secure, distraught, appreciated or frightened. This experience may be a time when you made a decision about your lifestyle or religious belief, about your education or deciding to leave home. You may decide to talk about an event that tested your will or patience or an event that changed your opinion of a person or institution. Regardless of what topic you choose, you must follow some writing guidelines. After your topic has been selected, you need to gather the details, get organized, and write you first draft. Once you have a draft of your essay, review and revise it based on accuracy and completeness. Then you can reflect upon the writing. You need to reflect on your tone, viewpoint and assess if the readers will appreciate your essay. Get feedback from peers or family or friends. Make sure to edit and proofread your essay and then you are ready to write the final copy and publish your writing. I feel like this chapter was really an extension of the last chapter. It is just one more step towards the process of writing a good personal experience essay.
This chapter is very similar to the last (Narration and Description). You are still going to be writing an essay on a personal experience, but you are also going to be reflecting on that experience and why it is important in your life. You need to write about something that is a memorable experience; one worth reflecting upon. You reader need to pick up on that and understand why you reflect back on this experience. You need to be honest and show the reader all of the emotion that is attached to this experience. Even if you were embarrassed or felt a great deal of pain, you need to portray this to your reader. This experience may be a time when you felt secure, distraught, appreciated or frightened. This experience may be a time when you made a decision about your lifestyle or religious belief, about your education or deciding to leave home. You may decide to talk about an event that tested your will or patience or an event that changed your opinion of a person or institution. Regardless of what topic you choose, you must follow some writing guidelines. After your topic has been selected, you need to gather the details, get organized, and write you first draft. Once you have a draft of your essay, review and revise it based on accuracy and completeness. Then you can reflect upon the writing. You need to reflect on your tone, viewpoint and assess if the readers will appreciate your essay. Get feedback from peers or family or friends. Make sure to edit and proofread your essay and then you are ready to write the final copy and publish your writing. I feel like this chapter was really an extension of the last chapter. It is just one more step towards the process of writing a good personal experience essay.
Friday, January 30, 2009
Chapter 10 - Narration and Description Exercise
“The College Writer”: Chapter 10 – Narration and Description – Exercise
Reading for Better Writing – Exercise – page 139
1. In the first three paragraphs of his essay, the writer describes Highland. Cite passages that do or do not help you see the setting. What mood or feeling does the description evoke?
In the first three paragraphs, the writer helps me to visualize Highland by saying things like,” beautiful fall days…. on the Great Plains”, “warm southern breezes”, ”sun smiles with gentleness”,” spacious sky reigns over everything”, and “ghost town, Highland, Iowa.” These types of statements give me a picture of wide open spaces, where the air is fresh, the sun beams down on you, and the sky seems to stretch as far as you can see all over or around this little ghost town. The writer goes on to describe how the lands were once divided into 160-acre chunks and since then towns have dies out. The writer talks about the Protestant churches, horse barns and a blacksmith shop. I am picturing a deserted town in the middle of wide open space. I feel a sense of peace and the want to take in the amazing views of nature. On the other hand, when the writer mentions it being like a ghost town, I feel a tiny bit of eeriness.
2. James C. Schaap, himself a writer, takes his students to Highland, where he asks them to use the setting as a writing prompt. What could students learn from the experience? Why?
I think the atmosphere of this place will give the students the ability to learn to open their minds. The place seems to be so wide open and a place where you can breathe in nature at its best. I also think it sounds like the students can learn a little bit about the history of that area. See how years can change a place. The professor/ writer taking his students to this town of Highland, takes them out of their normal everyday lives, shows and gives them a change of pace, a chance to see things in a different light.
3. Schaap concludes the essay by saying that his students’ presence in Highland on September 11 was “a kind of blessing.” What does he mean?
I think the writer is trying to point out how on September 11, 2001, America was awakened with a tremendous amount of shock, terror and sadness. I think he was trying to say that the students he had with him in Highland on that day, at that time had the “blessing” of not partaking in so much of that shock, terror and sadness. They were able to see something beautiful in nature and clear their minds. And then maybe when going back and learning the news, they were able to deal with it better.
4. What do you think the writer is trying to say in the last several lines?
I think the writer is just simply trying to point out how much he really enjoys this place in Highland, Iowa. He looks at this place, or taking this trip, as such a joyful part of his life. So on September 11, 2001, he was glad to be seeing something so beautiful and peaceful before finding out about the horrors that took place that day.
Reading for Better Writing – Exercise – page 139
1. In the first three paragraphs of his essay, the writer describes Highland. Cite passages that do or do not help you see the setting. What mood or feeling does the description evoke?
In the first three paragraphs, the writer helps me to visualize Highland by saying things like,” beautiful fall days…. on the Great Plains”, “warm southern breezes”, ”sun smiles with gentleness”,” spacious sky reigns over everything”, and “ghost town, Highland, Iowa.” These types of statements give me a picture of wide open spaces, where the air is fresh, the sun beams down on you, and the sky seems to stretch as far as you can see all over or around this little ghost town. The writer goes on to describe how the lands were once divided into 160-acre chunks and since then towns have dies out. The writer talks about the Protestant churches, horse barns and a blacksmith shop. I am picturing a deserted town in the middle of wide open space. I feel a sense of peace and the want to take in the amazing views of nature. On the other hand, when the writer mentions it being like a ghost town, I feel a tiny bit of eeriness.
2. James C. Schaap, himself a writer, takes his students to Highland, where he asks them to use the setting as a writing prompt. What could students learn from the experience? Why?
I think the atmosphere of this place will give the students the ability to learn to open their minds. The place seems to be so wide open and a place where you can breathe in nature at its best. I also think it sounds like the students can learn a little bit about the history of that area. See how years can change a place. The professor/ writer taking his students to this town of Highland, takes them out of their normal everyday lives, shows and gives them a change of pace, a chance to see things in a different light.
3. Schaap concludes the essay by saying that his students’ presence in Highland on September 11 was “a kind of blessing.” What does he mean?
I think the writer is trying to point out how on September 11, 2001, America was awakened with a tremendous amount of shock, terror and sadness. I think he was trying to say that the students he had with him in Highland on that day, at that time had the “blessing” of not partaking in so much of that shock, terror and sadness. They were able to see something beautiful in nature and clear their minds. And then maybe when going back and learning the news, they were able to deal with it better.
4. What do you think the writer is trying to say in the last several lines?
I think the writer is just simply trying to point out how much he really enjoys this place in Highland, Iowa. He looks at this place, or taking this trip, as such a joyful part of his life. So on September 11, 2001, he was glad to be seeing something so beautiful and peaceful before finding out about the horrors that took place that day.
Chapter 10 - Narration and Description Summary
“The College Writer”: Chapter 10 – Narration and Description – Summary
This chapter goes over what a narrative or descriptive essay actually is. It is an essay based on a personal experience. It can be anything from a time you were afraid or angry to a time you found joy. It can be a hard lesson learned or a secret you discovered. It can be about a loved one you’ve lost or a time of celebration. There are so many options as far as topics for this type of essay. You just need to remember some key points. You need to make sure you are passionate about your topic, that you include characters, details, and descriptions. You want to make the reader feel like they are apart of your story. You want the reader to hear, see, touch and taste what you did. Once you know your topic, focus in on a key moment or point to your story, gather details and write an outline, you should ask for some feedback from someone. Once you do, it is time to write your first draft. You need to write the first draft, then share your story, revise it, edit and proofread it, and write up your final copy. I was glad to find out that you are able to add photos or drawing in with your narrative essay. I think that will be really good if I can incorporate some images into my story.
This chapter goes over what a narrative or descriptive essay actually is. It is an essay based on a personal experience. It can be anything from a time you were afraid or angry to a time you found joy. It can be a hard lesson learned or a secret you discovered. It can be about a loved one you’ve lost or a time of celebration. There are so many options as far as topics for this type of essay. You just need to remember some key points. You need to make sure you are passionate about your topic, that you include characters, details, and descriptions. You want to make the reader feel like they are apart of your story. You want the reader to hear, see, touch and taste what you did. Once you know your topic, focus in on a key moment or point to your story, gather details and write an outline, you should ask for some feedback from someone. Once you do, it is time to write your first draft. You need to write the first draft, then share your story, revise it, edit and proofread it, and write up your final copy. I was glad to find out that you are able to add photos or drawing in with your narrative essay. I think that will be really good if I can incorporate some images into my story.
Thursday, January 29, 2009
Chapter 9 - Forms of College Writing - Summary
“The College Writer”: Forms of College Writing – Summary
This is a short chapter on the three divisions into which most college curricula is divided, the departments of and types of writing in each division. The three curricular divisions are humanities, social sciences and natural and applied sciences. To name a few examples, Humanities is made up of departments such as archeology, dance, English, history, religion and woman’s studies. Social science is made of departments such as criminology, genetics, government and psychology. Natural and applied sciences are made up of departments such as anatomy, biology, computer science, and zoology. By showing a few examples of each division, you can tell that humanities focus more on human culture, cultural trends and religion; social sciences studies human behavior and societies, while natural and applied sciences focus the aspects of nature. This chapter also briefly shows you what types and traits of writing take place in each division.
This is a short chapter on the three divisions into which most college curricula is divided, the departments of and types of writing in each division. The three curricular divisions are humanities, social sciences and natural and applied sciences. To name a few examples, Humanities is made up of departments such as archeology, dance, English, history, religion and woman’s studies. Social science is made of departments such as criminology, genetics, government and psychology. Natural and applied sciences are made up of departments such as anatomy, biology, computer science, and zoology. By showing a few examples of each division, you can tell that humanities focus more on human culture, cultural trends and religion; social sciences studies human behavior and societies, while natural and applied sciences focus the aspects of nature. This chapter also briefly shows you what types and traits of writing take place in each division.
Chapter 8 - One Writer's Process - Exercise
“The College Writer”: Chapter 8 – One Writer’s Process – Exercise
Exercise #1 – Page 119
Review Angela’s writing process. How does it compare with your own writing process on a recent assignment?
At this point, I have only had one essay writing assignment, which was my Self Introduction Essay, so I will base my answer to this question on how I wrote that essay. In writing the Self Introduction Essay I did examine the assignment; figure out the subject, purpose, and audience. I also made a mind map, which assisted me in writing the essay. I feel like when I wrote the essay, I was mostly doing freewriting. The topic was myself, which is an easy topic to write about; it required no research. I organized the essay into five paragraphs: an introduction, past, present and future and a closing. I will admit, I did not do any revisions and I just briefly looked over the finished product for any noticeable errors. After reading these eight chapters, I now understand it takes a lot more to make an essay a finished product to be proud of. I will take all that I have learned here and try to apply it in future essays.
Exercise #1 – Page 119
Review Angela’s writing process. How does it compare with your own writing process on a recent assignment?
At this point, I have only had one essay writing assignment, which was my Self Introduction Essay, so I will base my answer to this question on how I wrote that essay. In writing the Self Introduction Essay I did examine the assignment; figure out the subject, purpose, and audience. I also made a mind map, which assisted me in writing the essay. I feel like when I wrote the essay, I was mostly doing freewriting. The topic was myself, which is an easy topic to write about; it required no research. I organized the essay into five paragraphs: an introduction, past, present and future and a closing. I will admit, I did not do any revisions and I just briefly looked over the finished product for any noticeable errors. After reading these eight chapters, I now understand it takes a lot more to make an essay a finished product to be proud of. I will take all that I have learned here and try to apply it in future essays.
Chapter 8 - One Writer's Process - Summary
“The College Writer”: Chapter 8 – One Writer’s Process – Summary
This chapter is a kind of overview of the past seven chapters. You see the process of writing an essay in motion. The example given in this chapter is an essay written by a student named Angela Franco. Angela receives her assignment, examines it, makes a cluster of ideas, as well as does some freewriting. This is to narrow her assignment to a more specific focus. She goes through the process of planning for her essay. This entails answering some questions like who, what, when, why, where and how. She also does research on her topic making sure to record all sources. Angela picks a way to organize her essay and writes her first draft. She then makes some revisions based on ideas, organization and voice. After reviewing her corrections, she gives her paper to a peer for review. These two revisions lead her write an edited draft. At this point, the chapter point out that Angela has now done her first draft, two revisions, an edited draft and a proofread draft. She is now ready to complete her finished essay, which she does. So this chapter gives an example of how to write an essay.
This chapter is a kind of overview of the past seven chapters. You see the process of writing an essay in motion. The example given in this chapter is an essay written by a student named Angela Franco. Angela receives her assignment, examines it, makes a cluster of ideas, as well as does some freewriting. This is to narrow her assignment to a more specific focus. She goes through the process of planning for her essay. This entails answering some questions like who, what, when, why, where and how. She also does research on her topic making sure to record all sources. Angela picks a way to organize her essay and writes her first draft. She then makes some revisions based on ideas, organization and voice. After reviewing her corrections, she gives her paper to a peer for review. These two revisions lead her write an edited draft. At this point, the chapter point out that Angela has now done her first draft, two revisions, an edited draft and a proofread draft. She is now ready to complete her finished essay, which she does. So this chapter gives an example of how to write an essay.
Chapter 7 - Submitting Writing and Creating Portfolios Exercise
“The College Writer”: Chapter 7: Submitting Writing and Creating Portfolios – Exercise
Exercise # 1 – Page 102
Choose one of your recent writing assignments and use the instructions on page 100 to access the quality of your formatting and page design. Edit and redesign the paper as needed.
Self Introduction Essay
My name is Carrie Karp and I am twenty-six years old. I was born in Burlingame,
California. Although I moved around quite a bit throughout my life, I have always lived in the
Bay Area. I spent about the first ten to twelve years of my life living on the Peninsula. The
remaining fourteen to sixteen years, I have lived in the East Bay. I am an only child, although I
do have step-siblings whom I consider to be almost like blood relatives. My parents got divorced
when I was very young and my step father and his children have been in my life since I was
about two years old.
I come from a mixed background. My mom’s mother, Nani as we call her, is part Scottish,
French, and English. She would be considered a fifth generation San Franciscan. My mom’s
father, my Grandpa Al, was Croatian. Both of his parents came over to San Francisco from
Yugoslavia. My Grandpa Al would be considered a first generation San Franciscan. My mom’s
parents had eight kids total. I have a very large family that just keeps growing! My dad’s father,
my Grandpa Lenny, is German. I am not sure as to when his family came to the United States.
His mother, my Grandma June, is Italian. She came to the United States from Italy. She is from
Genova, which is northern Italy. My father’s parents had only two children. So that part of my family is not so big. After that summary of where I have come from, I would say that I am a mix
of Italian, German, Scottish, French and English.
Currently I am living in Livermore with my fiancé and our two dogs, Cody and Bella. Cody
and Bella are Labrador Retrievers. I am a HUGE animal lover! I almost wish I could have a
household full of all different pets. The reason I say almost is because I know how much goes
into having a pet; feeding them, bathing them, taking them to the vet, etc. I believe pets are a
huge responsibility and you should not own a pet unless you understand that. So, two dogs are
all that I can handle right now. I also think there is nothing better to me than spending time with
family and friends. As I grow and mature, I realize that family and friends (and pets too) is what
makes your life rich and full of happiness and love. Some of my hobbies or “loves of life” are
travelling, although I have not done much of it yet, eating good food and watching good movies
every now and again. I also love to do arts and crafts, cooking/ baking, to visit museums, and go
shopping.
As for the near future, my fiancé and I are getting married in August of this year, which I
am super excited for. I just started attending Lincoln University in the fall semester of 2008. I
am aiming towards my Associates of Science degree in Diagnostic Imaging with my
concentration being General Sonography. I never thought I would go to college after high school,
but as some years past, I realize the importance of an education. I believe that being educated
means having confidence and opens doors for you in life.
My goals for the present and the future are to concentrate on school, do my best to
achieve good grades while absorbing all information taught to me and ultimately to find a job as
an Ultrasound Tech. I want the kind of job that I will be happy to go to everyday. I also want job
security and good pay. I believe all of this will come with working as an Ultrasound Tech. I also
want to start a family within the next three to four years. I cannot wait to experience the joys of
being a parent. I have no doubts that there will be hard times, but I embrace them and look
forward to all the good to come as well. I am so looking forward to the years to come.
Exercise # 1 – Page 102
Choose one of your recent writing assignments and use the instructions on page 100 to access the quality of your formatting and page design. Edit and redesign the paper as needed.
Self Introduction Essay
My name is Carrie Karp and I am twenty-six years old. I was born in Burlingame,
California. Although I moved around quite a bit throughout my life, I have always lived in the
Bay Area. I spent about the first ten to twelve years of my life living on the Peninsula. The
remaining fourteen to sixteen years, I have lived in the East Bay. I am an only child, although I
do have step-siblings whom I consider to be almost like blood relatives. My parents got divorced
when I was very young and my step father and his children have been in my life since I was
about two years old.
I come from a mixed background. My mom’s mother, Nani as we call her, is part Scottish,
French, and English. She would be considered a fifth generation San Franciscan. My mom’s
father, my Grandpa Al, was Croatian. Both of his parents came over to San Francisco from
Yugoslavia. My Grandpa Al would be considered a first generation San Franciscan. My mom’s
parents had eight kids total. I have a very large family that just keeps growing! My dad’s father,
my Grandpa Lenny, is German. I am not sure as to when his family came to the United States.
His mother, my Grandma June, is Italian. She came to the United States from Italy. She is from
Genova, which is northern Italy. My father’s parents had only two children. So that part of my family is not so big. After that summary of where I have come from, I would say that I am a mix
of Italian, German, Scottish, French and English.
Currently I am living in Livermore with my fiancé and our two dogs, Cody and Bella. Cody
and Bella are Labrador Retrievers. I am a HUGE animal lover! I almost wish I could have a
household full of all different pets. The reason I say almost is because I know how much goes
into having a pet; feeding them, bathing them, taking them to the vet, etc. I believe pets are a
huge responsibility and you should not own a pet unless you understand that. So, two dogs are
all that I can handle right now. I also think there is nothing better to me than spending time with
family and friends. As I grow and mature, I realize that family and friends (and pets too) is what
makes your life rich and full of happiness and love. Some of my hobbies or “loves of life” are
travelling, although I have not done much of it yet, eating good food and watching good movies
every now and again. I also love to do arts and crafts, cooking/ baking, to visit museums, and go
shopping.
As for the near future, my fiancé and I are getting married in August of this year, which I
am super excited for. I just started attending Lincoln University in the fall semester of 2008. I
am aiming towards my Associates of Science degree in Diagnostic Imaging with my
concentration being General Sonography. I never thought I would go to college after high school,
but as some years past, I realize the importance of an education. I believe that being educated
means having confidence and opens doors for you in life.
My goals for the present and the future are to concentrate on school, do my best to
achieve good grades while absorbing all information taught to me and ultimately to find a job as
an Ultrasound Tech. I want the kind of job that I will be happy to go to everyday. I also want job
security and good pay. I believe all of this will come with working as an Ultrasound Tech. I also
want to start a family within the next three to four years. I cannot wait to experience the joys of
being a parent. I have no doubts that there will be hard times, but I embrace them and look
forward to all the good to come as well. I am so looking forward to the years to come.
Chapter 7 - Submitting Writing and Creating Portfolios Summary
“The College Writer”: Chapter 7: Submitting Writing and Creating Portfolios – Summary
This is a very short and to the point chapter about the ways to submit your essays. It goes over the proper formatting, typography, spacing and graphical devices for your essays. You need to make sure that all your papers are easy to read, uncluttered, have proper spacing and margins as well as proper use of lists and charts. You can choose a number of different audiences to submit your paper to. You can submit it to peers, your instructor, family and friends or even on a blog. You can submit your papers either on a physical medium, such as paper or by electronic submission. In this class, we submit all of our written assignments via email and a blogging website. I think that is a great idea for many reasons, but the most important being that we are not wasting paper.
This is a very short and to the point chapter about the ways to submit your essays. It goes over the proper formatting, typography, spacing and graphical devices for your essays. You need to make sure that all your papers are easy to read, uncluttered, have proper spacing and margins as well as proper use of lists and charts. You can choose a number of different audiences to submit your paper to. You can submit it to peers, your instructor, family and friends or even on a blog. You can submit your papers either on a physical medium, such as paper or by electronic submission. In this class, we submit all of our written assignments via email and a blogging website. I think that is a great idea for many reasons, but the most important being that we are not wasting paper.
Chapter 6 - Exercise
“The College Writer”: Chapter 6 Editing and Proofreading – Exercise
Exercise #3 – Page 98
Combine some of the following ideas into longer, more mature sentences. Write at least four sentences, using page 85 as a guide.
1. A well-trained dog is a pleasure to its owner and to others, although dogs can be difficult to train.
2. Dogs can be difficult to train; the necessary supplies include patience, a leash and treats.
3. Not only do dogs like to please their owners, but a well-trained dog is a pleasure to its owner and to others.
4. Training is not a chore for dogs because dogs like to please their owners.
Exercise #3 – Page 98
Combine some of the following ideas into longer, more mature sentences. Write at least four sentences, using page 85 as a guide.
1. A well-trained dog is a pleasure to its owner and to others, although dogs can be difficult to train.
2. Dogs can be difficult to train; the necessary supplies include patience, a leash and treats.
3. Not only do dogs like to please their owners, but a well-trained dog is a pleasure to its owner and to others.
4. Training is not a chore for dogs because dogs like to please their owners.
Chapter 6 - Summary
“The College Writer”: Chapter 6 Editing and Proofreading – Summary
In chapter 6, titled, “Editing and proofreading,” you learn that once you have a revised copy of your essay, the next step it to look it over again. This time you are editing for words, phrases, and sentences that are unclear or that do not look right. You are also looking for any spelling errors, mechanics, usage, and grammar errors. You want to make sure that your reader can completely understand what you are writing about. You do not want to include any jargon or redundancy. You want to write in a way in which you are using fair language with no biased words. You want to make sure to choose nouns and verbs with energy and vividness. When you have someone reading your paper, you want to be sure you have their full attend. This chapter teaches you how to achieve that goal through editing your sentence structure, word choice and punctuation. When you are writing essays, I think this will be a great chapter to refer back to in order to improve your paper.
In chapter 6, titled, “Editing and proofreading,” you learn that once you have a revised copy of your essay, the next step it to look it over again. This time you are editing for words, phrases, and sentences that are unclear or that do not look right. You are also looking for any spelling errors, mechanics, usage, and grammar errors. You want to make sure that your reader can completely understand what you are writing about. You do not want to include any jargon or redundancy. You want to write in a way in which you are using fair language with no biased words. You want to make sure to choose nouns and verbs with energy and vividness. When you have someone reading your paper, you want to be sure you have their full attend. This chapter teaches you how to achieve that goal through editing your sentence structure, word choice and punctuation. When you are writing essays, I think this will be a great chapter to refer back to in order to improve your paper.
Wednesday, January 28, 2009
Chapter 5 - Revising Summary
“The College Writer”: Chapter 5 – Revising Summary
This chapter on revising I would say is about just that. This chapter shows you how to take your written first draft and revise it into possibly your final draft. It will differ person to person or paper to paper. You may need to write more than just one rough draft. You may need a couple before you finally have your final paper completed. You need to know how to look at your first draft and address all the issues it may contain. This requires you to ask yourself a lot of questions. Maybe you can make the title more appealing. Maybe your “voice” is not very honest in your writing. Maybe you are not staying organized within the essay. Basically you need to look at the draft as a whole and then paragraph by paragraph to determine what can be changed, what details need to be added, what parts don’t really relate to the topic after all. I think one of the most important teachings of this chapter is to remember the basics! Remember to be organized, support and explore your topic, have lots of detail, ask and answer questions, summarize the main point and make the essay as a whole functional.
This chapter on revising I would say is about just that. This chapter shows you how to take your written first draft and revise it into possibly your final draft. It will differ person to person or paper to paper. You may need to write more than just one rough draft. You may need a couple before you finally have your final paper completed. You need to know how to look at your first draft and address all the issues it may contain. This requires you to ask yourself a lot of questions. Maybe you can make the title more appealing. Maybe your “voice” is not very honest in your writing. Maybe you are not staying organized within the essay. Basically you need to look at the draft as a whole and then paragraph by paragraph to determine what can be changed, what details need to be added, what parts don’t really relate to the topic after all. I think one of the most important teachings of this chapter is to remember the basics! Remember to be organized, support and explore your topic, have lots of detail, ask and answer questions, summarize the main point and make the essay as a whole functional.
Journal Entry
As I sit here reaading these chapters on all the different steps actually is in writing an essay, I am getting a little nervous. I realized that I have not written an essay in a very long time. I am scared to see what my first essay will look like and how long it will actually take for me to complete. I am sure the first essay will not be as good as the last. I will just need to recall those "writing" skills from forever ago... and see what I can come up with. That's all for now!
Chapter 4 - Drafting - Summary
“The College Writer”: Chapter 4 – Drafting – Summary
The chapter outlines how to write a rough draft of your essay. Like the previous chapter, you again learn how to re-look at your topic, think about your audience, purpose and your subject. In every essay you need to have a beginning, middle and end. You need to grab your reader’s attentions, tell them your thesis, ask enticing questions, and show your organization or what direction you are taking the reader. You also need to deepen your issue by providing supporting information for your thesis, test your ideas, have structure and have lots of detail. I think you should share some personal interest in your topic, again, ask and answer questions, and really just get to the point. This chapter goes over many different ways you can structure your details in your essay, such as, analogical, cause and effect, chronological order, classification, compare and contrast, and so on. In ending your essay, you should always reassert the main point and try to urge your reader to look ahead at the possibilities and also accept what you have said.
The chapter outlines how to write a rough draft of your essay. Like the previous chapter, you again learn how to re-look at your topic, think about your audience, purpose and your subject. In every essay you need to have a beginning, middle and end. You need to grab your reader’s attentions, tell them your thesis, ask enticing questions, and show your organization or what direction you are taking the reader. You also need to deepen your issue by providing supporting information for your thesis, test your ideas, have structure and have lots of detail. I think you should share some personal interest in your topic, again, ask and answer questions, and really just get to the point. This chapter goes over many different ways you can structure your details in your essay, such as, analogical, cause and effect, chronological order, classification, compare and contrast, and so on. In ending your essay, you should always reassert the main point and try to urge your reader to look ahead at the possibilities and also accept what you have said.
Chapter 3 - Planning - Exercise
“The College Writer”: Chapter 3 – Planning – Exercise
Exercise #1: Author Ken Macrorie claims that “Good writing is formed partly through plan and partly through accident,” Do you agree? Why or why not? Relate Macrorie’s idea to your own writing experiences. How carefully do you plan? How much do you leave to accident?
I completely agree with this statement that the author Ken Macrorie claims above. Yes, I think that an essential part of writing is research and planning for your essay. I also believe that as your brain processes the information as you go along. During this time that you are planning and analyzing the material, new ideas and thoughts may come to mind. That is what this chapter in the book talks about; a “working” thesis. You may write your thesis statement, but after gathering more information and analyzing it a bit, you may change your ideas. If you are dealing with a more narrative, personal experience essay, I think most of this essay’s final draft will be accidental. That is why when you write a paper, you normally have many drafts. It is because of the accidental thoughts that come in and that you jot down. I have done that many of times in everything that I write. Whether you are writing in a card, or writing a note, or an essay, you are bound to have some “accidental” writing pop in there. I think the amount of accidents you input into writing depends. I think that is different each time.
Exercise #1: Author Ken Macrorie claims that “Good writing is formed partly through plan and partly through accident,” Do you agree? Why or why not? Relate Macrorie’s idea to your own writing experiences. How carefully do you plan? How much do you leave to accident?
I completely agree with this statement that the author Ken Macrorie claims above. Yes, I think that an essential part of writing is research and planning for your essay. I also believe that as your brain processes the information as you go along. During this time that you are planning and analyzing the material, new ideas and thoughts may come to mind. That is what this chapter in the book talks about; a “working” thesis. You may write your thesis statement, but after gathering more information and analyzing it a bit, you may change your ideas. If you are dealing with a more narrative, personal experience essay, I think most of this essay’s final draft will be accidental. That is why when you write a paper, you normally have many drafts. It is because of the accidental thoughts that come in and that you jot down. I have done that many of times in everything that I write. Whether you are writing in a card, or writing a note, or an essay, you are bound to have some “accidental” writing pop in there. I think the amount of accidents you input into writing depends. I think that is different each time.
Chapter 3 - Planning - Summary
“The College Writer”: Chapter 3 – Planning – Summary
In this chapter it describes the steps in which you plan out the essay you are going to write. You must be able to state your thesis as well as develop an organizational pattern that you are going to follow throughout your essay. In this chapter you learn that you have to take a second look at your topic and do further research on it. You also need to take your general subject or topic and make it into a more specific focus. Throughout the planning process you need to ask yourself questions to make sure your thesis reflects the topic, the details/ research support your thesis, and if there will be a pattern of organization to your essay. In reading this chapter, I have learned there are different ways you can plan your essay. You can use, basic lists, topic outlines, sentence outlines, or graphical organizers. I think this chapter can be a good reference tool in how to prepare for your essay.
In this chapter it describes the steps in which you plan out the essay you are going to write. You must be able to state your thesis as well as develop an organizational pattern that you are going to follow throughout your essay. In this chapter you learn that you have to take a second look at your topic and do further research on it. You also need to take your general subject or topic and make it into a more specific focus. Throughout the planning process you need to ask yourself questions to make sure your thesis reflects the topic, the details/ research support your thesis, and if there will be a pattern of organization to your essay. In reading this chapter, I have learned there are different ways you can plan your essay. You can use, basic lists, topic outlines, sentence outlines, or graphical organizers. I think this chapter can be a good reference tool in how to prepare for your essay.
Saturday, January 24, 2009
Chapter 2 - Beginning the Writing Process - Exercise
“The College Writer”: Chapter 2 – Beginning the Writing Process – Exercise
Exercise 1
I re-read the only essay that I have written so far this semester, which was the Self Introduction Essay. I think in this type of an essay it was very easy to show that I have a thorough understanding of the subject, because the subject was me. I do believe I met the needs of my audience. I wrote the essay in five paragraphs as outlined by my instructor, Dr. Sylvia Schoemaker Rippel. The first paragraph was to be an introduction, followed by three paragraphs to develop, one past, one present and one future. The final paragraph was to conclude my essay.
If I could say that I could better any part of this essay, I would have to say the conclusion could be better. I am not the best when it comes to writing conclusions. I always feel like something is missing. Overall, this essay I am sure was not written perfectly. I am sure there are a number of improvements I can make to my writing, which I hope to learn this semester. I do think I achieved at least the purpose of this essay. I believe I shared quite a bit about myself with the reader throughout my essay and this was the assignment.
Exercise 1
I re-read the only essay that I have written so far this semester, which was the Self Introduction Essay. I think in this type of an essay it was very easy to show that I have a thorough understanding of the subject, because the subject was me. I do believe I met the needs of my audience. I wrote the essay in five paragraphs as outlined by my instructor, Dr. Sylvia Schoemaker Rippel. The first paragraph was to be an introduction, followed by three paragraphs to develop, one past, one present and one future. The final paragraph was to conclude my essay.
If I could say that I could better any part of this essay, I would have to say the conclusion could be better. I am not the best when it comes to writing conclusions. I always feel like something is missing. Overall, this essay I am sure was not written perfectly. I am sure there are a number of improvements I can make to my writing, which I hope to learn this semester. I do think I achieved at least the purpose of this essay. I believe I shared quite a bit about myself with the reader throughout my essay and this was the assignment.
Chapter 2 - Beginning the Writing Process - Summary
“The College Writer”: Chapter 2 – Beginning the Writing Process - Summary
In this chapter, “Beginning the Writing Process,” gives a full explanation of the steps you must take before and during you begin writing a paper. You first must have an understanding of your subject/ assignment and the options and restrictions of the assignment. You also need to know your audience and the purpose or benefit of writing the assignment. In this chapter you get many tips for helping you select a subject to write about. You need to meet all requirements laid out for the assignment and then you can begin your search for the perfect idea. There are many different places you can look for an idea, such as the library, class notes, websites, etc. Just make sure you pick a topic that genuinely interests you. Once you have selected a topic to write about, you can begin collecting information. It’s best to start with what you know and then move on to other sources. Great sources for your research are the Internet, libraries, interviews, surveys and many more sources. Writing can be a messy task while you are thinking, evaluating, collaborating all the information for your topic. Just keep in mind that all writing assignments come with some challenges. Work through them, and you’ll end up with a great final draft.
In this chapter, “Beginning the Writing Process,” gives a full explanation of the steps you must take before and during you begin writing a paper. You first must have an understanding of your subject/ assignment and the options and restrictions of the assignment. You also need to know your audience and the purpose or benefit of writing the assignment. In this chapter you get many tips for helping you select a subject to write about. You need to meet all requirements laid out for the assignment and then you can begin your search for the perfect idea. There are many different places you can look for an idea, such as the library, class notes, websites, etc. Just make sure you pick a topic that genuinely interests you. Once you have selected a topic to write about, you can begin collecting information. It’s best to start with what you know and then move on to other sources. Great sources for your research are the Internet, libraries, interviews, surveys and many more sources. Writing can be a messy task while you are thinking, evaluating, collaborating all the information for your topic. Just keep in mind that all writing assignments come with some challenges. Work through them, and you’ll end up with a great final draft.
Chapter 1 - Exercise
“The College Writer”: Chapter 1 Exercise
Exercise 3
Exercise 3
Looking at this image I can see two images combined into one. First there is the word “poetry” written on what appears to be a book. Paying closer attention to this image I can see that the book is also a butterfly’s wings. The wings of the butterfly are moving as I can tell by the little lines above the pages of the book. You can also see the butterfly’s head, antennas, and even the body with a tail. I believe the meaning behind this image is to pass along the message of poetry. Poetry is free; it can make you feel like you are flying. With poetry there is no right or wrong. It is beautiful, just like a butterfly. I get a real artsy feeling from viewing this image. This image can appeal to a person’s creative side. Maybe someone who has never tried poetry, if they studied this image long enough, would get the feeling of freedom and try writing some.
Chapter 1 - Critical Thinking Through Reading, Viewing, and Writing Summary
“The College Writer”: Chapter 1 Summary
This chapter on “Critical Thinking through Reading, Viewing and Writing” has basically given an outline for how to read, view and write better. The chapter covers SQ3R, which stands for Survey, Question, Read, Recite and Review. This technique enables you to focus more, go deeper into your work, and absorb the information you are given more easily. When you are reading, you need to be active in that process. You need to be sure and pace yourself, take notes or map your reading material, evaluate the information, have a response to the text as well as summarize it. You also need to learn how to use critical thinking for viewing and analyzing images and how to apply critical thinking into your writing. Basically when you are reading, viewing and writing you need to open your mind, ask questions, and be an active participant in the task you are completing. You need to be able to pull apart the text or image and put it back together again in your own words.
This chapter on “Critical Thinking through Reading, Viewing and Writing” has basically given an outline for how to read, view and write better. The chapter covers SQ3R, which stands for Survey, Question, Read, Recite and Review. This technique enables you to focus more, go deeper into your work, and absorb the information you are given more easily. When you are reading, you need to be active in that process. You need to be sure and pace yourself, take notes or map your reading material, evaluate the information, have a response to the text as well as summarize it. You also need to learn how to use critical thinking for viewing and analyzing images and how to apply critical thinking into your writing. Basically when you are reading, viewing and writing you need to open your mind, ask questions, and be an active participant in the task you are completing. You need to be able to pull apart the text or image and put it back together again in your own words.
Friday, January 23, 2009
Self Introduction Essay
Self Introduction Essay
My name is Carrie Karp and I am twenty-six years old. I was born in Burlingame, California. Although I moved around quite a bit throughout my life, I have always lived in the Bay Area. I spent about the first ten to twelve years of my life living on the Peninsula. The remaining fourteen to sixteen years, I have lived in the East Bay. I am an only child, although I do have step-siblings whom I consider to be almost like blood relatives. My parents got divorced when I was very young and my step father and his children have been in my life since I was about two years old.
I come from a mixed background. My mom’s mother, Nani as we call her, is part Scottish, French, and English. She would be considered a fifth generation San Franciscan. My mom’s father, my Grandpa Al, was Croatian. Both of his parents came over to San Francisco from Yugoslavia. My Grandpa Al would be considered a first generation San Franciscan. My mom’s parents had eight kids total. I have a very large family that just keeps growing! My dad’s father, my Grandpa Lenny, is German. I am not sure as to when his family came to the United States. His mother, my Grandma June, is Italian. She came to the United States from Italy. She is from Genova, which is northern Italy. My father’s parents had only two children. So that part of my family is not so big. After that summary of where I have come from, I would say that I am a mix of Italian, German, Scottish, French and English.
Currently I am living in Livermore with my fiancé and our two dogs, Cody and Bella. Cody and Bella are Labrador Retrievers. I am a HUGE animal lover! I almost wish I could have a household full of all different pets. The reason I say almost is because I know how much goes into having a pet; feeding them, bathing them, taking them to the vet, etc. I believe pets are a huge responsibility and you should not own a pet unless you understand that. So, two dogs are all that I can handle right now. I also think there is nothing better to me than spending time with family and friends. As I grow and mature, I realize that family and friends (and pets too) is what makes your life rich and full of happiness and love. Some of my hobbies or “loves of life” are travelling, although I have not done much of it yet, eating good food and watching good movies every now and again. I also love to do arts and crafts, cooking/ baking, to visit museums, and go shopping.
As for the near future, my fiancé and I are getting married in August of this year, which I am super excited for. I just started attending Lincoln University in the fall semester of 2008. I am aiming towards my Associates of Science degree in Diagnostic Imaging with my concentration being General Sonography. I never thought I would go to college after high school, but as some years past, I realize the importance of an education. I believe that being educated means having confidence and opens doors for you in life.
My goals for the present and the future are to concentrate on school, do my best to achieve good grades while absorbing all information taught to me and ultimately to find a job as an Ultrasound Tech. I want the kind of job that I will be happy to go to everyday. I also want job security and good pay. I believe all of this will come with working as an Ultrasound Tech. I also want to start a family within the next three to four years. I cannot wait to experience the joys of being a parent. I have no doubts that there will be hard times, but I embrace them and look forward to all the good to come as well. I am so looking forward to the years to come.
My name is Carrie Karp and I am twenty-six years old. I was born in Burlingame, California. Although I moved around quite a bit throughout my life, I have always lived in the Bay Area. I spent about the first ten to twelve years of my life living on the Peninsula. The remaining fourteen to sixteen years, I have lived in the East Bay. I am an only child, although I do have step-siblings whom I consider to be almost like blood relatives. My parents got divorced when I was very young and my step father and his children have been in my life since I was about two years old.
I come from a mixed background. My mom’s mother, Nani as we call her, is part Scottish, French, and English. She would be considered a fifth generation San Franciscan. My mom’s father, my Grandpa Al, was Croatian. Both of his parents came over to San Francisco from Yugoslavia. My Grandpa Al would be considered a first generation San Franciscan. My mom’s parents had eight kids total. I have a very large family that just keeps growing! My dad’s father, my Grandpa Lenny, is German. I am not sure as to when his family came to the United States. His mother, my Grandma June, is Italian. She came to the United States from Italy. She is from Genova, which is northern Italy. My father’s parents had only two children. So that part of my family is not so big. After that summary of where I have come from, I would say that I am a mix of Italian, German, Scottish, French and English.
Currently I am living in Livermore with my fiancé and our two dogs, Cody and Bella. Cody and Bella are Labrador Retrievers. I am a HUGE animal lover! I almost wish I could have a household full of all different pets. The reason I say almost is because I know how much goes into having a pet; feeding them, bathing them, taking them to the vet, etc. I believe pets are a huge responsibility and you should not own a pet unless you understand that. So, two dogs are all that I can handle right now. I also think there is nothing better to me than spending time with family and friends. As I grow and mature, I realize that family and friends (and pets too) is what makes your life rich and full of happiness and love. Some of my hobbies or “loves of life” are travelling, although I have not done much of it yet, eating good food and watching good movies every now and again. I also love to do arts and crafts, cooking/ baking, to visit museums, and go shopping.
As for the near future, my fiancé and I are getting married in August of this year, which I am super excited for. I just started attending Lincoln University in the fall semester of 2008. I am aiming towards my Associates of Science degree in Diagnostic Imaging with my concentration being General Sonography. I never thought I would go to college after high school, but as some years past, I realize the importance of an education. I believe that being educated means having confidence and opens doors for you in life.
My goals for the present and the future are to concentrate on school, do my best to achieve good grades while absorbing all information taught to me and ultimately to find a job as an Ultrasound Tech. I want the kind of job that I will be happy to go to everyday. I also want job security and good pay. I believe all of this will come with working as an Ultrasound Tech. I also want to start a family within the next three to four years. I cannot wait to experience the joys of being a parent. I have no doubts that there will be hard times, but I embrace them and look forward to all the good to come as well. I am so looking forward to the years to come.
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