Final Reflection II

 

Charity Cotton

Composition II

Ms. Nall

10 December 2024 

                                                                            Final Reflection 

Throughout this course, I engaged in three significant assignments that not only honed my writing and analytical skills but also deepened my understanding of critical themes in literature and education. The Academic Success Proposal, Annotated Bibliography, and Analysis of "Girl" by Jamaica Kincaid collectively enhanced my academic journey, providing me with valuable insights and practical skills that I will carry forward in my studies.

The Academic Success Proposal was my first major assignment, and it focused on identifying effective strategies to improve math performance for students facing challenges. This assignment allowed me to explore a subject close to my heart, as math has often been a difficult area for me. My goal was to create a proposal that would be beneficial for educators and academic advisors, outlining practical methods to support struggling students. 

In preparing the proposal, I conducted extensive research, seeking credible sources that discussed effective study techniques, time management strategies, and the importance of seeking help. I learned how to synthesize information from various studies to present a coherent set of recommendations. This process not only improved my research abilities but also helped me to understand the specific challenges that students encounter in math. I proposed strategies such as forming study groups, utilizing tutoring services, and creating structured study schedules. This assignment taught me the importance of being resourceful and proactive, reinforcing my commitment to academic success.

The second assignment, the Annotated Bibliography, shifted my focus to literature, specifically Jamaica Kincaid's work. This task required me to compile and analyze academic sources related to her short story "Girl." Through this assignment, I learned how to engage critically with texts, identifying key themes and literary techniques employed by Kincaid. 

I selected various scholarly articles that examined Kincaid’s narrative style, particularly her use of voice and repetition. Summarizing and evaluating these sources taught me to appreciate the depth of literary analysis and its relevance to understanding complex themes such as gender identity and societal expectations. The process of creating annotations helped me develop a more nuanced perspective on Kincaid's work and the cultural contexts that shape it. This assignment also encouraged me to connect the themes in Kincaid’s writing to my own experiences, deepening my appreciation for the relevance of literature in examining identity and societal pressures.

The final assignment, the Analysis of "Girl," was a culmination of the skills and insights I gained from the previous tasks. In this assignment, I provided a detailed exploration of Kincaid’s short story, focusing on its narrative structure and the emotional impact of the mother's voice. Analyzing the text required me to delve into the themes of societal pressure and female identity, examining how Kincaid's use of a single, continuous sentence creates a sense of urgency and intensity.

I closely examined the mother-daughter dynamic presented in the story, recognizing how the mother's advice reflects both love and the constraints imposed by cultural expectations. This analysis highlighted the struggles many women face, resonating with my own feelings about identity and societal roles. Through this assignment, I developed my analytical skills, learning to articulate my thoughts clearly and support them with textual evidence.

Reflecting on these three assignments, I recognize the significant growth I experienced as a writer and critical thinker. The Academic Success Proposal enhanced my research and writing skills, teaching me the importance of developing practical solutions to real-world problems. The Annotated Bibliography and Analysis of "Girl" deepened my understanding of literary analysis, allowing me to engage with texts on a more profound level.

Moreover, these assignments taught me the value of constructive feedback and collaboration. Engaging with peers during the writing process provided me with diverse perspectives that enriched my understanding and improved my writing. I learned to embrace feedback as a tool for growth rather than a critique of my abilities.

In conclusion, the experiences I gained from the Academic Success Proposal, Annotated Bibliography, and Analysis of "Girl" have been invaluable. They not only enhanced my academic skills but also reinforced my commitment to understanding the complexities of identity and societal expectations. As I move forward in my academic journey, I am excited to apply the skills I have developed and continue exploring the intersections of education and literature.