In Other Words

Writing has always been a challenge to me. Although I have been an avid reader since youth, I have not acquired the “bug” to write. Be it a lack of skills, motivation, or time, I have refrained from the challenged of expressing myself through written work. Until now, I have considered writing in its most fundamental form: a method to communicate ideas and the imaginings of the mind. When choosing a novel, poem, or short story to read, I have come to know what genre and authors “I get,” or better yet, who “get me.” This, perhaps, has been the nexus of my struggles with writing.
My favorite authors are John Steinbeck, Jack London, and Ernest Hemingway. Their work is conversant, beautifully written, and artfully plain. Without knowing the fundamentals of writing, their writing styles seemed simple, almost easy. I have come to realize that writing is a disciple: one I have not yet begun to master. In my writing process, I require a lot of time to synthesize my thoughts. Developing a concise thesis is probably my most difficult writing task. I find myself frantically searching for reference and source material in an attempt to ignite an authentic idea. Procrastination is also an ugly companion to my writing process. I recognize that research and brainstorming is no substitute to getting "down to the writing." However, I consistently underestimate the breadth of work involved in producing any written work, especially when dancing around a thesis I have not yet developed.
Though not often realized, my primary goal when writing is to succinctly convey my main purpose using as few words as possible. Participating in peer review has been the best way to hear constructive feedback and being given the opportunity to re-evaluate and revise written work has produced my best results.
Although I’m still struggling with my own creative process, I have been inspired to become a better writer. I have a renewed appreciation for the written word and consider myself a work in progress. Having re-entered the academic world after a 17 year hiatus, I have made a couple of discoveries: I know more than I thought I did and I have a lot left to learn.

Writing at Wit's End

As we reach the end of the semester, I am struck by the immense amount of knowledge I have gained from Professor Bolaski’s English 100. From the very first assignment, I was excited to put words on paper, albeit electronically, and build a new world of thoughts and stories with the English language as my only material. Having to relate our projects to current affairs was an interesting experience, as I had been accustomed to writing about obscure tidbits of our culture rather than large-scale controversial topics. The first essay I wrote much too quickly, taking for granted the fact that Rhetorical Analysis seemed an easy subject for me to tackle. I was quickly enlightened; this class might actually require some investment of effort and time… so much for writing it off as a no-brainer easy A.

As I sat down to write my next paper, I unfolded my laptop on the counter, grabbed my blanket, and brewed my tea. My brain was a sponge joyfully absorbing the information attained while preparing for and presenting the Argument Response essay. Being asked to read an article, understand the author’s point of view, think critically, develop an opposing point of view, and articulate it all, was a little mind-boggling at first impression. This was the paper that required the most revision; grasping the concept of argument-synthesis was a bit difficult. I felt I was greatly aided by the Argument Response assignment, as it allowed me to think critically and granted me the ability to read and understand an author’s perspective without being swayed one way or another. On a positive note, this made writing my Position Paper draft easier than it otherwise would have been. I did, unfortunately, choose a topic with multiple aspects, opinions, and pieces of information, making it trickier to create a concise argument. Learning to compile an annotated bibliography was a very intriguing assignment. The Research Project was a most exciting, highly stressful task. Reminding myself not to procrastinate, I plodded through, thinking of all the tools with which Professor Bolaski had equipped this student.

Through this course I have learned how to read, internalize, analyze, critique, and offer a different perspective for a variety of topics, some of which I was more familiar than others. I have worked to eliminate, or at least reduce, my use of colloquialisms, superfluous words, incorrect formatting, and unclear sentence structure. My papers have increased in length, but more importantly, I believe they have also increased in quality. Addressing a broad variety of topics has allowed me to explore, comprehend, and share a larger amount of knowledge about these issues. English 100 has given me the tools to advance both my writing and my understanding of some issues confronting our society.

Reflections on a Difficult Semester

In our constantly busy world, it is rare that anyone takes the opportunity to sit and analyze ones methods and habits. Yet, it is becoming something increasingly important as we progress forward in our lives. Fortunately in this class we are given just that opportunity, and I for one plan on taking advantage of it. It is important for me to analyze what my writing because it not only reflects how I work in English but in my school career as a whole, especially when dealing with homework. Having just finished my first college year, after a long absence, I have to take a look at my habits to continue success in school.
The first important thing that this class has taught me is that years in the professional have yet to teach me to do work early. I still procrastinate until the last minute before pulling out my assignments. It is like I hope that they will do themselves. The good thing about this is that in spite of waiting until the last minute to work, I will be thinking and brainstorming about it the whole time. This allows me to pinpoint a topic on which I would like to write about. Unfortunately, by the time I sit down, I have three to four different ideas. I then have to sit and think with a time limit, but I react well to the pressure.
In my writing I very rarely use the full writing technique. I never pre-write, outline, or anything else like that. I sit at the computer, and start typing. Sometimes it takes two or three tries to get a good paragraph, but in the end I like the way that I work. It allows me to from my thoughts and streamlines them directly onto the paper. This means that I do not have to organize them afterwards. This tactic has served me well and I think that if I were to allow myself a little extra time, to reread and refine afterwards my essays would be much better.
Another aspect of my writing is that I tend to try to make the most ambitious paper possible right off the bat. I want to make the most extraordinary paper possible without seeing at how realistic of a goal that is. Coupled with my procrastination, this makes for a very frantic Saturday afternoon. The good thing is that, this means that my writing is usually a bit different from what others write.
I have arranged my writing chronologically, for multiple reasons. I think that it is important to show the progress as a writer. I also believe that the topics and assignments themselves went into greater complexity as the semester continued. It shows how my writing, which has grown from the beginning of the semester, tackled the new more difficult assignments.
All in all, this semester has taught me the importance of being a good student. I have learned that all the things that were told to me when I was younger are true. And I do regret not listening then. I have learned the pains of procrastination with the restless nights that it brings. I have also learned how to be a better student. I do not procrastinate as much anymore, even if it did not show in this class, and I have learned the value of homework. I expect to be much better prepared and hard working student next semester.

Preface: Writing Portfolio

Preface: College Writing Course Portfolio
Writing has never come easy for me. I am a "left brain", rational, logical, analytical, and objective. If you give me a formula and an equation to apply that formula, I will give you a rational answer to the problem. This is my comfort zone. No critical evaluation, no analysis, or interpretation.
Over the course of my professional and college career, I've come to the painful realization of how important effective written communication is. Organizing my thoughts efficiently on paper translates over into how well I organize my thoughts and communicate my ideas verbally with colleagues, family, friends, and people in my community.
In this portfolio are four written works that mark my progress as a writer over the course of this term. The first paper in the portfolio, " A Thought on Second Thoughts" is a rhetorical analysis. This work required my being able to accurately identify various types of rhetorical strategies used by writers to reach their target audience. Identifying the writer's rhetorical strategies was not difficult, however identifying the desired response that the writer was hoping to solicit from his/her audience was oftentimes my challenge.
The second work in my portfolio, "MySpace and Facebook: A Class Divided", is an argument response paper that deals with how socioeconomic factors influence our online behaviors. This project was interesting to research because of its relevance to our current tech savvy generation. The development of my argument against the position, though sufficient, could have been stronger with more relevant source materials.
The third written work in this portfolio, "A Nation In Need of Medical Attention" was one of my most favorite projects to work on as it is an issue that I feel strongly about. This project is a position paper that focuses on the nation's need for a universal healthcare system. Clearly stating my position on the subject was not a problem. The challenge arose when I had to refute opposing arguments. The opposing arguments were often times so strong, that from time to time I had to re-evaluate my stance on the subject.
The fourth and final written project included in my portfolio is a research project on violence in the media and its effect on social behavior, "Media in America: Reflection of Our Social Values/Promotion of Our Social Decline?". This is the writing project that I am most proud of. Not only did I further enhance my ability to effectively research a topic, but in doing so along with the pre-ancillary assignments, I was able to more efficiently organize my thoughts coherently into a written work.
Each writing project was a necessary step in building my written communication skills. With each written work I made progress towards becoming an efficient writer. I still have more to learn, but this portfolio is a strong foundation on which I can continue to build.

Portfolio Preface

There has been a strong change for the good in my writing from the beginning of the semester to now. There are many qualities I have gained, and bad habits I have stopped.

In the beginning of the semester I would procrastinate to the very last moment out of stress and lack of confidence in my writing. I learned by the first paper (the rhetorical analysis paper) that this was not beneficial for my stress level, and also not for the turnout of my paper. As the semester went on, I was much more satisfied with my papers and enjoyed the extra time I gave myself to finish the paper. I am now happy to put my procrastination to an end by breaking the cycle and starting my papers earlier in the week.

I personally enjoyed writing all of the papers assigned, but the page requirements for the papers is what stressed me out. Instead of focusing at the topic, I kept on looking how much more pages I had to write.

I am very satisfied with my portfolio. I like certain pieces I wrote more then others, but that did not influence the way I arranged my portfolio. I arranged my papers in so specific order. I did this because I am so indecisive I could not decide which paper was my favorite, and which paper was my least favorite.

It was cool to read through all my papers. Particularly my research paper. This paper was a little bit more easier for me to write because I was just learning about the topic through my research. I had never heard of GMOs, but what sparked my research topic was a drink I was drinking called "Honest Tea." On the label of the tea stated "No GMOs".

I am more than satisfied with the writing techniques I have acquired during this course. I am now such a more analytical writer, especially after writing the rhetorical analysis. I am also now better at leaving pesky grammatical errors out of my paper. All in all, my portfolio is something I am proud of.

Blog 8

All of the assignments were important this semester to allow one to explore the depths of writing. To me the most important was the research paper. The research paper was important on both the academic and personal level. Academically it allowed us the opportunity to explore and research a topic. It is very important to know how to use the resources available and use them to come up with an argument. I also thought it was the most relevant piece of writing we did because it allowed us complete liberty in writing style. It did not require us to do anything but research a topic and present the information in a relevant way. I believe that it is important to have a simple writing goal and to not be restricted by length, tense, point of view or anything else. This assignment was important to me personally because it allowed me the opportunity to explore the arguments against illegal immigrants. My research was probably obviously skewed to the pro immigrant side, but all writing has to have an angle. It was important for me to be able to see both sides of the argument though.

Blog 9&10


My portfolio consists of my least favorite to most favorite pieces of work. Organizing them this way helps demonstrate how I think I have improved. I often
procrastinate when it comes to writing because it is always hard for me to get those first few sentences out. I usually brainstorm in my mind what I want to say but it is often hard for me to put it on paper and make it flow. Once I get my introduction going the paper is a breeze and much easier for me to write.

My least favorite paper would have to be the argument paper. My very first paper (rhetorical analysis) was much better than the argument paper and it shows. The article I chose was a quote from a quote leading me to get confused and want to argue against the wrong quote. Throughout the course grammar and diction were my main issues and I have always struggled with these since grade school. The rhetorical analysis paper shows some of the issues I struggle with and Mrs. Bolaski states, “The diction you use could be more sophisticated.” Given that every paper was not final I always had to opportunity to revise, and learn from the feedback.

After noticing my writing needed some improvement I considered going to MiraCosta’s Writing Center. When I did write about a topic I enjoyed I noticed I wrote better. I started taking my papers to the writing center to sit with a tutor and noticed I started improving. It showed in my grade and comments from the workshop groups. One student said, “Awesome Job” and “I’m really impressed how you addressed your objections and counter-arguments.” The first couple of papers I did not have proofread by someone else but, it helps and from now on I will make time to have all my papers proofread. It is always hard to keep reading your own paper.

Overall I did considerably better than I thought for an online English class. I’m very impressed with myself and could not have improved my writing skills without the help of this class and the MiraCosta Writing center. I notice my everyday writing and speaking has also improved. I feel that my writing skills have improved leading me In the right direction for the next step in college English.

Assignments, Aid, and Awareness

Well, here we are at the end of the semester. How the time has flown! I am here to reflect on this class and my writing, so here goes nothing...

All of the essay assignments for ENG 100 helped immensely to grow as a writer and student. However, the research project assignment really taught me to read and think critically, write concisely, and work quickly. All of the papers have deepened my academic knowledge of both the literary styles and the particular subjects about which I wrote. As I look into possibly pursuing a career in linguistics, the further study of the English language in written form is something I plan to continue in the fall semester here at MiraCosta. Whether it is 201, 202, or some other course, having learned to write a rhetorical analysis, an argument response, a position essay and a research paper has been an invaluable experience that will stay with me for years to come.

The opportunity to tailor and choose our essay topics was wonderful for me personally. I chose topics that were important, interesting and informative; in the end, I believe I read much more than I wrote for each assignment! I have always been involved with environmental protection and awareness, so being able to write a position paper about it was an exciting process. As I wrap up my portfolio, though, I cannot help but say that I truly loved writing every paper.

The Argument Response was definitely a personal challenge, but it was one that I accepted, and I am exorbitantly glad I did. Between the feedback from Professor Bolaski and fellow students, I was encouraged to read and write thoughtfully, examine my topic from every angle, and to be more confident in my opinion and knowledge. It was thoroughly enjoyable to participate in the workshops (one of my favorite parts of the class) and glean information about intriguing topics chosen by fellow students, and to read and respond to them critically opened up a whole new way of looking at papers for me. Receiving the responses from others was incredibly beneficial as a stressed-out student!! The workshopping process is one that I will continue, whether it be with friends, classmates, the Writing Center, or elsewhere.

I am very glad to have taken this course, as it has aided and inspired me to write in a more quality manner. Professor Bolaski had equipped us all with tools we can use in our daily lives, such as MLA format expertise, internet savvy, and awareness of current affairs. I have learned a lot from ENG 100, and am thankful. Happy writing.

Blog 9/10 The Methods to My Madness

After four years of no school, it took much effort for me to get back into the routine of pushing through the process of completing paper after paper. From the start, I realized that my greatest challenge in writing is just getting off the starting block. Actually, the very first step for me is quite easy; it simply requires me to feed my caffeine addiction. But following that, I struggle to push myself forward, much like in dreams where one loses the ability to run. I scribble random notes and ideas that immediately strike me and that I might like to incorporate in my paper. I am often so confident in a single sentence, I find myself basing my entire essay off that sentence and creating a thesis that will be supported by it. 

As I begin researching and constantly revisiting the prompt and criterion, I work to expand on my initial ideas until I have a more concrete outline. I often find it best to brainstorm during my daily routines, rather than sitting down and focusing solely on my assignment. More than once I asked my physical therapist to fetch me a pen and some paper so that I could write down a great idea before it was lost in the abyss of my scrambled early-morning thoughts. Once I fill in the outline with all my various scribbled notes and ideas, I am left with a messy initial draft, which lacks flow and order. It is from there that I begin the more orthodox first step of using graphic organizers. 

For most assignments, I very gradually grow more confident in my essay as I progress and the quality improves. But often, as with my research paper on the Armenian Massacres, I have no confidence in my paper until the very end when something clicks and it all falls together. A lesson that I learned with the same paper is how much research is required to successfully write a research review. However, in retrospect, this is probably a lesson I should have known by common sense. Throughout the term, my productivity was often hindered by unintentional procrastination. School often escaped my mind while I was forced to focus on other issues, but I never missed a deadline. 

I have placed my essays chronologically in my portfolio. I have done this not solely in order to make it chronological, but to show my progress throughout the term,  as the essays became longer and more demanding. My final papers do not show a significant amount of change from the initial drafts because I tried to tackle all of my revisions, with help from experienced writers, before the early drafts were due.

As I have reached the completion of my portfolio, I have rediscovered that I am a reactionary writer, driven to write most effectively when I am instigated or called to respond. My love for writing was often challenged, but always reaffirmed by the results of my effort. Writing an essay, letter by letter, is much like painting a beautiful picture, stroke by stroke. As an artist, this mindset drives me and encourages my admiration for the subject of writing.

#8 In Retrospect

All of the assignments throughout this term, from the small blog posts to the essays, were of great help to me in my transition back in to school. The most relevant (academically) was the ancillary assignments because the more effort I put in to each one, the better start I had on the paper that followed. For example, the ancillary assignment for our argument/response paper provided me with a solid outline of my essay. The single paper most relevant to me personally was my research project on the Armenian Genocide. My personal connection to it, however, made it a challenge to write without too much bias in my voice and with language that was not too convicting or harsh. This assignment is also the one I was most excited, but also most hesitant, to finish. It had taken the most effort and by far the most time, but it is still difficult to call complete. I’m still doing some nitpicking over it.

Overall, the online setting has been very convenient for me. The blogging was a great aspect of the class, as it gave me the opportunity to see where other peoples’ thoughts were on the subject at hand. Although, I am still not sure if I prefer it over a classroom setting. I have always found it beneficial being face to face with my teacher and my fellow students. 

Reflections Blog 10

The black background at blackboard, course syllabus, and blog website has been a refreshing change and easy on the eyes after a length of time looking at the bright white computer screen. Gratitude for that.

The blog has been a great medium for informal structured writing. It would be enjoyable to continue this new found fun, maybe for another purpose. The subjects shared for reading at blog written by fellow students, were mostly great, sometimes just the opposite. Most were subjects and materials worth searching more about during the summer, following some recuperating time after class ends.

In light of the portfolio, I must admit that a considerable amount of new concepts and new, improved reading and composition skills have occurred as a result of English 100. I hope this isn’t an over realization. The assignments were exhilarating, challenging, frustrating, insightful and enriching. The text field guide readings are fine examples of execution and ones that can be a source of inspiration for further developing the skills acquired in class. The online experience has become a multi-benefit learning process by challenging me to learn the material assigned and use, improve and practice technical skills on the computer. Ironically, now that class is nearly ended, I have finally discovered the Office 2007 comment bubble feature! Maybe another use for that another time. It seems that we have only scratched the surface of all the materials presented.

It’s been a pleasure and privilege. Farewell for now, we’ll probably meet on campus from time to time.

Blog 8

I can say that being in this course has made me better at organizing my thoughts. This course has made me think and expand my mind way beyond where it was. Of all the assignments we had to write the argument paper was the most changeling for me, because I don't really care for any type of discontent. I had a 15 year marriage that was full of abuse, so any thing that reminds me of confronting a situation and debating is blocked in my mind. Thanks to this class I have learned that an argument paper is not what my mind believes it to be. This may not make sense to anyone but me, I am so thankful I chose to take this class at this point in my college courses.

blog 9!!

As I sit here and ponder my writings over the semester it is apparent to me there is a method

to my writings. The excitement of sitting down and reading the expectations for the week’s blog

or essay is the first step. The blog post for example are challenging for me, because the subjects

varied and some were intriguing, and mixed with current events. The type of personality that I

have is open to all subjects, listening, and then deciding if learning more is in my future. For

instance, reading more about Nadya “Octomom” Suleman, which was an interesting story for

the nation.

My favorite paper is the Research paper; it was fun to finding the different articles. I did

choose a very hot topic, only because I had done some reading on that subject during the

election. The Position paper is the second essay in my portfolio, the economy depleting our

retirement funds and investing in our futures. Third is the Argument Response paper was also

one I enjoyed writing; sociology was a great class for me, being able to write on social classes

after reading an article that was less than intriguing was a challenge. Pulling out point that I

personally thought were written in a less than desirable style. The last paper in the portfolio is

the Rhetorical Analysis, having been the first paper written, I can see how hard a paper was in

the beginning of the semester, now somewhat simple to understand.


Saenz2

In taking English 100, I have learned many new ways to write an essay. The correct style and

proper use of writing shows in my essays for scholarships I have been applying for. I was

awarded a Nursing scholarship from Tri-City Auxiliary. Pressure has been put on me to maintain

my 3.0 GPA to keep the scholarship for the fall. However, this course has opened up my mind,

and I could feel my mind expanding more, and learning how a properly written essay can earn

you not only a better grade, but also put money in my pocket to purchase the books and

uniforms I will be purchasing for nursing school.

Federal work study helps fill in the gaps of my financial obligations, which is in the

scholarship/financial aid office, due to my business banking background. I have learned that a

well written essay that is clear and concise makes the writer stand out, and puts you in the final

running’s for the scholarship being offered. Sometimes the applicant is lucky enough to find

they win a scholarship group that is will to help a student who shows a high potential to

give back to their community hospital.

Preface (blog 9)

Writing for me does not come easy. I have always done well in English classes and I always enjoy them, but the actual process of writing a paper is something that I struggle with and hope to improve. I am a firm believer in the saying, “practice makes perfect,” and this class was good practice. I learned what my favorite methods for writing are, I learned better techniques, and I was reminded of old ones.
I have always been a bit of a procrastinator, which I know is something I need to work on. I have found that when I try to write a paper well before it is due I tend to get distracted easily and can’t seem to focus and when I have a short time to write a paper my thoughts tend to flow easier and more quickly. This is something I am working on so this semester I started earlier on the position paper and the research project. I am much happier with the result of my research project, having started it earlier I had a better grasp on the subject I was writing about. I gave myself time to watch some National Geographic videos on global warming and was therefore better equipped to write. I also realized that making a detailed outline before I start writing makes the process much smoother and easier.
Though I did spend a lot more time than usual on the position paper, Socialized Medicine, I had a difficult time writing it. After I did the research for it I began to question my own opinion on the subject. I found that there is good and bad to both socialized and non-socialized medicine which made it hard for me organize my thoughts and get them out onto paper. Although I think I picked the wrong topic for me, I learned that I need to be absolutely sure of my opinion before I try to argue it.
I arranged my portfolio somewhat according to favorites. I wanted to start with one I liked, but did not want to end with one I did not like, so I started and ended with my favorites. I find it’s better to end on a good note. Because it had been a while since I’d written a paper I needed to be reminded how to correctly format a paper and a bibliography. Though I struggled a little bit, this class was very helpful in that area. I now feel more comfortable moving forward. This class was a good experience and gave me the skills I need for future classes.

English Evaluation (blog 8)

I thought all of the assignments were relevant in helping me become a better writer. The most helpful however, was the final research project. I hadn't ever done one to this extent before and it has definitely helped prepare me for future classes. I found the position paper to be the most challenging. I started the assignment with a strong opinion, but after doing the research found that it was a lot more complicated than I had anticipated therefore making it more difficult to write. I also struggled with finding scholarly sources, so that was good practice.

I really enjoyed the research project because I find the Earth very fascinating so it was a lot of fun researching global warming and the melting ice caps.

This class was a good experience and gave me the tools I need for future classes. Professor Bolaski answered all the questions I had, which were many, and she was very helpful :). The only thing that was difficult about this class is that I felt there were too many websites. It would be a lot easier and less confusing if everything were in the same place. I got the hang of it after a while, but at first it was a bit confusing. I took a class last semester online where everything was done through blackboard. (blogs, tests, assignments, grades..etc.)

Overall, it was a good class and I'm glad I took it online.

Words on English

Overall, the examination of rhetorical analysis has helped me to think more analytically about writing. I have always thought, or known, that my writing lacked structure. However, I found it difficult to write methodically thus compromising the impact of my written work. For that reason, the rhetorical analysis was one of the most advantageous assignments for me in preparation to meet the expectations of my other courses this semester. The argument response and research papers were equally important to prepare for the rest of my academic career. The research paper, in conjunction with the MLA requirements, was my most challenging academic work of the semester. I especially enjoyed the prompts for our writing assignments: relevant news items with socio-political emphasis. I learned quite a bit about our president while doing research on the social significance of Barack Obama and I have files full of primary sources from academic research sites, like JSTOR, that I will continue to use throughout my career.

English Blog 9

I must conclude that a considerable amount of new concepts and new, improved skills have occurred as a result of English 100. The online experience has become a multi-benefit learning process by challenging me to learn the material assigned and use, improve and practice technical skills on the computer. Ironically, now that class is nearly ended, I have finally discovered the Office 2007 comment bubble feature.

The final portfolio of compositions helps give a better perspective of the skills learned and developed through time, something to truly be appreciated. The resulting new aptitude can now be applied to next level English courses as a benefit to other courses and used to enhance our practical abilities in the workforce. As we await final grades pending, we can realize this English class as one more step accomplished in a curriculum plan, if that’s our purpose.

Reflection on English 100

This class has helped me a lot in my writing skills. This was one of my first online courses and it has been a learning experience to say the least!! I liked writing all the essays, and learned early on that waiting last minute is the kiss of the death. I really enjoyed writing the research project. I liked the freedom to choose a topic, and that helped me because I chose a topic I really found interesting, and so it was easy to crank out the paper. This course has helped alleviate my busy schedule by doing work when it is most convenient for me.

Thoughts on English 100

I've always held a great appreciation for those capable of organizing their thoughts on paper whether it be to tell a story, provide info, or make an argument. I've always struggled to translate the ideas in my head that I would like to get across to an audience onto paper. Though I still require more practice of the art, I do believe I've made some progress. The most relevant and challenging assignment of this course for me was the research project. The literature analysis and review was not the challenge, but reviewing the massive amount of information out there related to my topic and deciding what to include was. However, in the process of doing so it really helped with the organization of my information when it came time to write the paper. This research skill also came in helpful as I prepared for an informative oral presentation for my Communications course.

Overall, the steps we've taken in learning how to first develop our ideas, and then translate them onto paper is a necessary skill that we'll not only need for future academic courses, but in our careers, and life situations when dealing with those in our communities.

English 100 feedback


At first I was skeptical to take english 100 online, but it turned out to be a great experience. I thought I was going to do horrible not being able to talk with the instructor face to face or listen to a lecture. The class ended up working great with my schedule and all the questions I had were always answered leading me in the right direction for the assignments. I don't regret taking this class online at all. I enjoyed the position assignment. It was tough considering it was toward the end of the semester, alot more was required out of us and we had to use a specific amount of scholarly sources. I like how we have the choice of our topics. It makes for a more enjoyable writing experience.

English 100 Reflections

Blogging

Although familiar with blogging as one of many features in the internet world, for me it has been a new personal experience and an unexpected aspect of the English 100 online experience. The guided but flexible format allows for some individual creative expression. The formal yet informal atmosphere offers a breather from more traditional paper-writing, while still challenging ones composition capabilities. It demonstrates that the classroom learned skills have a practical application in the diverse situations we encounter daily. Blogging has perfectly integrated the structured academics of English online class learning and internet cultures; an embraced characteristic that would have otherwise been missed.

Honorably Mentioned Assignment

Each assignment has its subjective qualities, both personally and socially. Considering the academic perspective, the research paper offered the opportunity to develop the collective reading and showing skills learned throughout class, therefore very beneficial and all encompassing. The emphasis on processing research and applying annotated bibliographies was enlightening and a call to create order. The research project is the class beginning of the end, the one with high intensity and more detailed expectations in it's final presentation. Applying such writing skills to future studies can easily encompass every area of study imaginable, whether required or not. Practically applied within a career setting, these systematically acquired writing skills may improve individual confidence and project a more diverse, professional-quality image.

No child left behind

For my research project I am looking up the subject of No Child Left Behind. It seems to have a wide range of opinions. The reason I am interested in the subject is due to my youngest son in middle school. He keeps reminding me no matter how bad he does in school he will still pass. Being a mom I know it is not true, but became very curious how it all came about. It seems I may of taken on more than I can actually do.The subject spreads from congress setting up the act to states setting the standards for their school systems. No Child Left Behind seems to have its flaws have been a work in progress since 2001.

For the People, By the People

In my paper, I will explore the economic benefits of the practice of localism. I will address the dichotomy between commercial versus local consumerism and explore the authenticity of localism and its potential for positive economic and social impact on small communities during this economic downturn.
I was first introduced to the idea of localism through the works of Alice Waters: chef, author, localism advocate, and owner of the iconic restaurant, Chez Panisse, in Berkeley, California. My interest in localism was perked when Waters recently received the blessing of President Obama to plant an organic garden on the grounds of The White House: a symbol of health, community, prosperity, self sufficiency, and a source of inspiration for American people in these troubling times of environmental crises and financial instability. Those practicing localism strive to create communities that are in line with the popular notion of what a community should be opposed to what many communities have become: detached entities that are unaccountable, unproductive, and slowly failing to satisfy the personal and economic expectations of their citizens.
Having lived in North County for over 7 years, I have become accustomed to the unique benefits of my community: beautiful beaches, healthy outdoor lifestyle, and a seemingly endless bounty of delights from the sea and neighboring fields of flowers and local produce. Although I'm surrounded by all of the elements necessary to sustain a simple, community conscience lifestyle, I still find myself in strip mall parking lots on sunny weekends, wrestling with hordes of consumers in air conditioned grocery and department stores.
Localism is the practice of strictly consuming products or purchasing goods from local sources such as farmers, and has expanded its scope to include individually owned markets and locally owned small business service providers. The rationale for localism is a simple one: by making personal connections and supporting the strategic efforts of our neighbors, like-minded individuals can positively affect and foster a more affable and prosperous community. Localism is certainly an attractive and idyllic notion: one deserving close evaluation.

Mass Media and the Decline of Social Values

I've decided to research the effects of sex and violence in the media and its influence on social values in America. There have been many claims that link our overexposure to violence in the media to violent behavior. Theoretically, it logically flows. Oftentimes, an alcoholic is the child of an alcoholic parent. A person who has grown up in an abusive family, is at a higher risk of being in an abusive relationship himself/herself. As one of the articles I used in my research put it.."What we see is what we do..." So the questions is - how much of an influence does our constant exposure to sex and violence through media channels affect our lives, our value systems, our behaviors? Are we responsible for our own social decline?

"Genocide" or "Civil War and Unrest"?

I have chosen to do my research on the Armenian Genocide. Through the research, I intend to fully understand the history and facts behind the 1-1.5 million lives lost in this genocide of the early 20th century. I want to find out the methods that the Turks used in order to annihilate so many people over such a short period of time, and what justifications they use to support their actions.

I currently have little knowledge of the subject. It is well known that Turkey refuses to admit it was genocide and denies the evidence held against them. They claim that all of the lives lost were result of civil war and unrest. Maybe the only thing that kept the world from initially giving a name to the mass killings in the Ottoman Empire was that they had no way to describe the barbarities that were taking place. The word 'genocide', after all, would not be coined for another 20 years.  I initially set out with the goal to find information both in defense of Turkey and against them. Most important to me are all the neutral facts and statistics behind the extermination of the 1 million + Armenians. However, the deeper I delve in to available resources, the more I find that legitimate evidence in defense of Turkey is scarce. So, simply put, my question has evolved from "What is the primary evidence for and against calling this conflict genocide?" to "Why did the Ottoman Empire feel entitled to slaughter a race and how does Turkey justify it today?" and "How did the 'Young Turks' and others of the Ottoman Empire accomplish what they did?"  

My interest in the subject is due to my Armenian heritage. The genocide is the reason for my family’s citizenship in America today and I would like to know more about the atrocities that led my great-grandfather to flee his homeland.

Professional Players' Payoffs...

I have decided to explore the salaries of "superstar" professional athletes, i.e. 'LaDainian', 'A-Rod', etc., in comparision to both their non-"superstar" counterparts and to the average working American.

The numbers are staggering: some pro players are receiving an excess of $25 million, a far cry from the seemingly large sum of $1 million earned by lesser-knowns. Still this is a long-shot from the societal average of just over $50,000 annually.

The debate on this matter is a lively one. The material I have gleaned is informative and interesting. I hope to examine all sides of the argument and present them respectfully and accurately. I look forward to digging deeply into the realms of research and review!

Thank you, and happy writing.

Medicinal Marijuana
Not everyone agrees with medicinal marijuana and may think how does medicinal marijuana benefit the ill? When speaking of “Marijuana” many think of a harmful drug. But what about prescription medications….There is a reason why two nurses have to count pain medications (narcotics) when giving them to a patient because, they are highly addictive and can be harmful to patients if the wrong amount is given and healthcare professionals have been know to abuse these drugs in the hospital. The purpose of medicinal marijuana is to treat the symptoms and pain associated with illnesses. Some symptoms that are treated with medicinal marijuana are relief of: nausea, loss of appetite, pain, and anxiety to name a few. Cancer and aids are deadly diseases and the only thing that can be done for these patients is “palliative care” maintaining their pain level to keep them comfortable in their last days of life. If they choose marijuana to help assist in their palliative care that should be their choice. Medicinal marijuana has been used since the ancient times and according to Earlywine, M of the oxford university press it is noted that marijuana has fewer side effects than legal drugs and it is almost impossible to overdose on marijuana. When speaking of medicinal marijuana that means it legal for medical purposes only and not for general use. I'm going to stop here but there is so much more to say on the benefits of medicinal marijuana, I'll save the rest for my paper.
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Global Warming: Melting Ice Caps.

I chose to do my research paper on Global Warming and because it's such a large topic I narrowed it down to discussing the melting ice in the arctic. I've never really known much about global warming or why I should be worried, so I thought I would take this opportunity to find out. It turns out that there is definitely a lot of evidence supporting a warmer Earth, including melting ice, but there is also evidence that shows that it might not be all due to human activity.

NASA has satellite photos of the Arctic in the 1979 and 2003 showing how much the ice has melted. When the suns rays hit the ice they are reflected back up into the atmosphere, but when its rays hit the dark ocean they are absorbed. Causing warmer waters, which cause the ice to melt faster and in turn causes a warmer climate. This melting ice effects not just the weather, but also the animals. Scientists found that polar bears are being greatly affected by the lack of ice during the summer. The melting ice also causes rising sea levels, which could be disastrous.

Sunspots are another factor people tend to leave out. The sun has many dark holes on its surface that create high volumes of energy which make for a warmer Earth. However, these spots are in specific places and as the earth rotates the climate can change. For example, in the 1700's scientists discovered that there were hardly any sunspots and during that cycle England saw some of it's coldest and longest winters.