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Esteban Villarreal

Trisha Briones

ENGL 1301-123

December 6, 2023

Final Reflection

Embarking on the journey of academic exploration, the experience of crafting three essays and

reflecting on the learning process has been transformative. As I reflect on the challenges, insights, and

growth met throughout this class, it becomes clear that each Essay and reflection has played a crucial role in

shaping my academic and personal development.

First Essay - "Using rhetorical theory on a community website."

The journey began with exploring a community website in the first Essay. Initially, I struggled with

understanding the depth of the subject matter. The research process exposed me to diverse perspectives,

challenging my biased viewpoints. Constructing a strong and good argument became a puzzle, demanding

critical thinking and clarity of expression. Feedback from peers and instructors served as a compass, guiding

me through effective communication. This Essay laid the foundation for the analytical skills that would

unfold in later assignments.

1. Rhetorical Theory Unveiled

In exploring the community website, rhetorical theory supplied a lens through which the degree of

persuasion and communication within a digital space became clear. The appeals of ethos, pathos, and logos

served as guiding principles in understanding how the website looked to show credibility, stir up emotions,

and present logical arguments to its audience.

2. Community Website as a Persuasive Medium

Going into how the website employed rhetorical strategies to foster community. Analyze the visual

elements, language choices, and interactive features contributing to the persuasive intent. Examining

rhetorical appeals and devices on this platform revealed the intricate dance between the creators and the

audience, shaping a dynamic digital discourse.

3. Reflection on Personal Growth

Reflect on personal growth in understanding rhetorical strategies. How has this analysis changed

my ability to evaluate digital content critically? Consider the suggestion of employing rhetorical theory in

interpreting online discourse and how it has improved my literacy skills.

Second Essay - "Analyzing a movie poster."

Building upon the skills acquired in the first Essay, the second part goes into analyzing a movie

poster.

1. Deconstructing Visual Rhetoric

Analyzing the movie poster for "The Princess and the Frog," the focus shifted to visual rhetoric.

Explore how rhetorical theory, particularly visual elements, was pivotal in conveying messages, shaping

perceptions, and invoking emotions. Uncover choices, color schemes, and symbolism embedded in the

poster.

2.The Power of Symbols and Imagery

Examine the use of symbols and imagery in the poster, connecting them to rhetorical devices. How

did these visual elements contribute to the overall persuasive intent of the poster? Consider the impact of

visual rhetoric on the audience's reception and interpretation of the movie, displaying the connections of

rhetorical elements in visual storytelling.

3. Personal Insights and Visual Literacy

Reflect on personal insights gained through this visual rhetorical analysis. How has this experience

deepened my understanding of the role of visual elements in persuasive communication? Consider the

broader implications of visual literacy and its significance in the film.

Third Essay - "Analyzing an article using rhetorical theory."

The final Essay marked the blend of knowledge and refined skills. Analyzing an article requires a

comprehensive understanding of the subject matter gotten through prior essays. The third Essay is a

testament to the evolution from a novice to a more thinker, capable of engaging with complex ideas and

presenting them with clarity and depth.

1. Rhetorical Strategies in Textual Discourse

Transition to the analysis of the article comparing Tupac and Kendrick Lamar, focusing on

rhetorical strategies within written communication. Explore how rhetorical devices, such as tone, structure,

and argumentation, shaped the author's message and influenced the reader's interpretation.

2. The crossing of Language and Persuasion

Examine how language choices, rhetorical appeals, and convincing techniques intersect in the

written. How did the author strategically employ rhetorical devices to move a particular stance on the

comparison between Tupac and Kendrick Lamar? Consider the impact of rhetoric on shaping discourse in

the realm of music criticism and cultural analysis.

3. Personal Growth in Analytical Thinking

Reflect on personal growth in analytical thinking by applying rhetorical theory to written

communication. How has this analysis enhanced my ability to engage with articles and write arguments

critically? Consider the large implications of rhetorical theory in textual analysis and its significance in

interpreting complex cultural discussions.

Early Reflections

Reflect on the expectations and unsureness at the commencement of the class. How did your first

feelings align with the reality of the learning journey? Explore any surprises, challenges, or epiphanies that

marked the early stages of your academic exploration. How did early reflections influence your approach to

later coursework, and what insights did they provide into your learning style and preferences?

Midterm Reflection

Move to the midpoint reflection, assessing the distance covered and recalibrating goals. Discuss any

shifts in mindset, strategies for improvement found, and how feedback and self-awareness influenced your

approach to the remaining part of the course. Explore the evolving nature of your academic identity and

how midterm reflections informed your learning trajectory.

Final Reflection

Now, at the climax of the class, the final reflection serves as a comprehensive review of the entire

journey. It is a moment to revisit the goals set at the beginning, evaluating how they have evolved and

assessing the personal growth achieved. The final reflection is not just a conclusion but a way of continued

learning, supplying insights that transcend the boundaries of the course.

1.Class Dynamics

Discuss the dynamics of the class, emphasizing interactions with peers and instructors. How did

collaborative learning enhance your understanding of the material? Explore the impact of group activities,
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peer discussions, and instructor guidance on co-creating knowledge. Analyze the role of collaborative

learning in shaping your perspectives and how it contributed to a more improved academic experience.

2.Challenges and Overcoming Adversity

Challenges, both academic and personal, influence the journey. From clashing with complex theories to

managing time effectively, each obstacle became an opportunity for growth. Overcoming difficulty requires

flexibility and adaptability. The lessons learned from facing challenges extended beyond the classroom,

shaping a mindset equipped to navigate the uncertainties of future struggle.

3.Celebrating Achievements

Amidst the challenges, there were achievements to celebrate. Successfully navigating the confusion of

the essays, earning positive feedback, and seeing personal growth were significant milestones. The sense of

accomplishment served as motivation, strengthening the idea that resolve and dedication are given in solid

results. Celebrating achievements, big and small, became a source of inspiration for the ongoing pursuit of

knowledge.

As the final curtain descends on this semester, the reflection on essays, personal insights, and the

class experience becomes a testament to the transformative power of education. The journey through

writing made the art of critical thinking a lot easier, the reflections supplied a mirror to personal growth for

learning.

The challenges faced, the celebrated, and the knowledge got are not mere checkpoints but building

blocks for future assignments.

The essays were not just assignments but milestones in a journey of smart discovery. The

reflections were not just exercises but mirrors reflecting the growth within.
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With its essays, reflections, and challenges, this class has been more than an academic exercise; it

has been a transformative experience a testament to the enduring power of education to shape minds,

broaden perspectives, and propel individuals toward a future booming with possibilities.