Stefano Serene
Dr. Brandon
English 1120-08PR
4 May 2012
When I first walked into English 112, I thought I would be writing papers most of the time and have to learn about grammar and such. I was right about the “writing papers” part, but the assignments were not what I expected. We learned about life skills such as the art of conversation. I learned how to converse properly or rather I learned how to prevent awkward moments while talking to other people. Also, I observed what I do when I am conversing with someone so that way if I noticed any flaws or common mistakes when conversing I can fix them. Another thing I learned this semester is what other things that I can do with digital technologies such as creating blogs and how to use google’s word processor and search engine. Last but not least, I have learned how to write an argument analysis, which gave some issues, but once I realized I was making a simple mistake I was able to write the analysis with ease.
In English 112 I’ve learned how to use digital technologies such as creating my own blog. I have learned how to publish my essays digitally by using blog from google, and I use google documents for writing research notes, drafting papers, and revising my papers. I know how to research topics and cross check the sources I search for legitimacy by using the search engines on google. Also, I know how to cite my sources in order to prevent plagiarism and to allow my readers to use those sources for their own use. The fact that I am using a blog to publish this portfolio is proof that I know how to use the tools that digital technology has to offer. Also, I used google document to draft this portfolio before actually publishing it in the blog.
I understand the art of conversation and how to effectively use it. The art of conversation is something that I was already knew, but I was not aware of how I communicated with others until I learned that there are rules to conversating. I learned that to successfully communicate with others I need to observe the mood of the situation you are in so I can know the proper things to say. If the situation changes then I will adapt the change and adjust my mood in order to keep the conversation flowing. I learned that posture is also apart of oral communication. Such as, standing or sitting straight up and keep your hands by your side or you can keep them behind your back. Also, it is important to not fold your arms and to make eye contact with the person you are speaking to.
Writing argument analysis at first became a slight problem for me. Once I discovered why I was struggling with writing an argument analysis, it came easy to me. I kept assuming the reader already read the argument I was reviewing and by doing so I made my paper look short and empty. What I did to fix this is explain the meaning of the argument to the reader and then go into analyzing it. I am rather glad I can do this now because I do enjoy writing reviews, but before I hesitated in writing a review. Now I can write with ease and I am confident that the review will turn out well. Proof of this is provided in provided in my blog http://rycoricochet.blogspot.com/2012/04/arguement-analysis-do-we-need-pickle.html .
English 112 was an experience for me and probably for other students as well. I have learned life skills such as the art of conversation, which will surely benefit me in the future. I have learned more about the tools that digital technologies provide me. Also, I can now write reviews not just for editorial arguments, but for just anything else now. As far as grades go, I want to say I deserve an “A,” but I learned honesty is the better approach and I would be content with a “B.”
