WRITING PROMPT: Reflect on the ways you have accomplished critical thinking, effective communication, and acting professional. Remember, we learn as much from our failures as we do from our successes. Think back on everything we accomplished in the course; you may discuss any aspects of the course and your learning. Possible topics for reflection include: Discuss your best essay and why it is your best. (You may define “best”. It could be the one you worked hardest on, the one you’re most proud of, taught you most about writing, the one that went through the most revisions, etc.) Detail the revisions you’ve made and the improvements and changes. Acknowledge your weaknesses, but show how you’ve worked to overcome them. Reflect on what you’ve learned about writing, reading, technology, and/or other topics of this course. Writing notes: Do not feel overwhelmed by the above list; I certainly do not expect you to answer all of the items. Your paragraphs should be developed and argued as were your other essays. SUPPORT ALL YOUR IDEAS/CLAIMS WITH EXAMPLES. I will be looking for thoughtful, insightful reflections; please do not write what you think I want to hear. Most importantly, write what you want to say about yourself as a writer and a learner. As for style and length: Not required: introduction and conclusion Required: thesis and AT LEAST three paragraphs, though more is fine and encouraged.  This is a less formal writing than a traditional essay, but please do not use excessively casual, conversational language (such as 2nd person—you–and contractions). It is acceptable to use 1st person. 

What do the quilts in Alice Walker’s “Everyday Use” symbolize and how do they tie into the theme of the story? (To get at theme, tell what the story is about in one word, then in a sentence, tell what the author is trying to say about the one word. That sentence is the theme.)

This author was the first African American to win a Pulitzer Prize award.

How are Sarty in “Barn Burning” and Dave in “Almos’ a Man” both alike and different? Give two ways they are similar and two ways they are different.

Why does Marjorie’s plan to help Bernice backfire on Marjorie in “Bernice Bobs Her Hair”?

This author died virtually penniless in France, where he is buried. He was cremated, and was buried with a copy of his book “Black Boy.”

This author became famous at the age 24, and he and his wife were the “faces” of The Roaring Twenties. 

How much will Jenny the mule cost Dave in “Almos’ a Man”?

In “Barn Burning,” what item does Abner ruin that will cost him $5?

The author wanted to fight in WWI, but he was too short to fly a plane in America, so he joined the Royal Canadian Air Force.