ENGL 298 B: Intermediate Writing Social Sciences   Autumn 2011, University of Washington

After 2.5 weeks of class, I am pleased (and surprised) to say that I like the directions I have been given, especially in terms of the essays. Being able to choose specific topics within the texts that interest me make me more interested in delving into the texts and finding out answers within them, ultimately leading to better, more interesting essays. This is incredibly encouraging to my writing style. I write best about things I am passionate about, and writer’s block essentially is nonexistent. When I get to choose the specific topic I write about, I am able to choose topics that I am passionate about.

I do not see this as conforming, though I agree with the directives. Conforming to me means to give up your own beliefs and identity to take on a foreign one, and I am not doing this. I am simply following directions that I just happen to agree with and love.

These directives have, indeed, changed the way I read the texts. Looking back to my first highlights and annotations of Plato, I started off making note of things that were important in the scope of Socrates’ persona and plot. As I have received specific assignments and have spent more time in lecture, the annotations have evolved to contain thoughts and points regarding the political views of the author. This has helped me tremendously. I can quickly scan the readings for points to include in my essays. At first, however, this was difficult. Often, particularly with Plato, it is difficult to pick out the political theory from the personal philosophy, but as I have practiced doing so, it has become much easier.