10/4 paper 1 reflection

1. What was your final thesis statement? Paste, then analyze its strengths & weaknesses

“Even though social media allows us to communicate with anyone anywhere, online connections are not equivalent to the benefits of in-person relationships, such as touch, shared real-time experience, and listening. “

I would say my thesis statement length is a little on the longer side so I could find some ways to shorten and consolidate it. My thesis also addresses a pro and then con of social media so it shows that I am not overly biased. Adding in specific examples of how in person interactions are more beneficial also strengthens my thesis as well. I also think there will always be ways for me to improve my thesis statements, so I will always be open to that. 

2. In a separate paragraph, describe what you learned or were reminded of about your own writing process, from completing Paper #1. 

During this essay I was reminded about how long it takes me to write essays. I never seem to know what to talk about. Some people just need a little help starting and once they do they don’t stop. I am in fact not like that. From this I always try to plan out my essays on paper and write down what each paragraph will be about. I also found it really helpful on how I did my annotations on the articles we read. I was easily able to go back, find, and reference specific spots, without any hassle. 

3. In another paragraph: Which aspect of revision did you focus on most during your revisions? What changes or adjustments made your essay stronger? Be specific. 

During the revision process, I focused on a couple parts of my essay. I wanted to make sure my thesis was strong and have each paragraph relate back to my thesis. I know in the past I tend to trail off sometimes and I am not always the best at using the last sentence of each paragraph to relate back to the thesis. I definitely focused on doing that in this essay. I also don’t believe I was ever formally taught how to write a thesis, so having professor Brod’s suggestion to add in specific examples was very helpful in strengthening my thesis.

4. In another paragraph: How might you approach Paper #2 differently, from pre-reading and annotating, all the way through completion of your final draft? 

For this upcoming paper, I will read deeper in “They Say I Say” to make sure I understand the requirements for naysayers. I do believe I stayed on track and was well prepared when it came to annotating and planning my draft all the way through revisions. If anything, I think after I submit this to my portfolio I will go over and read what the second essay will be about. This will allow me to be more specific with my annotations and how they can directly relate back to the essay topic.