Chase Corbitt 

English Composition II 

Professor Hammett 

Essay 3 Comparative Reflection 

May 1, 2023 

Word Count: (530) 

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Reflection Essay 

         My experience in Composition 2 has been instrumental in enhancing my ability to write persuasively and compellingly. Through various written tasks assigned throughout this course, I have been able to broaden my horizon within writing, by gaining a deeper understanding of how to organize and structure my ideas, research effectively, and develop a strong argument using evidence. 

         The focus on extensive research before every project is a key valuable lesson I learned during this course; specifically, when crafting an argumentative essay about illiteracy. Devoting considerable time and effort to research helped me understand the root causes of the issue, which allowed me to create a nuanced and well-informed argument about a solution to the epidemic.  

 Crafting a clear thesis statement was another essential element that helped me throughout the writing process. In my rhetorical analysis essay, I applied Albert Camus' "The Plague", as well as many other of his works, as a lens for analyzing contemporary issues, such as my research topic for my first argumentative essay concerning illiteracy. Writing this essay really challenged me, as connecting these two subjects wasn’t easy. It took a great amount of research and use of evidence in the text to be able to create a clear and concise connection between the two. This class provided me with insights into crafting intriguing written works, in which a compelling thesis statement is imperative.  

         This class also provided me with the ability to target my essay toward an audience effectively through deliberate writing style choices tailored specifically for distinct reader groups which became quite apparent when tasked with persuasive subject matters like discussing illiteracy.  Writing about such a topic requires concrete evidence as well as tact in making claims. Choosing this topic helped me learn a lot about the impact that illiteracy has on society and its effects on human capabilities. After researching. I developed a different perspective on the issue that varied significantly prior to analysis. I can now comfortably say that I have a broader sympathetic perspective on the issue that bleeds into my worldview. 

          Finally, I have also learned the importance of revision and editing throughout the writing process. The peer review “workshoppings” that we are required to complete have been very beneficial in gaining some feedback about what areas are clear and consistent and what areas an essay is lacking in. In doing so, I was able to certify that my arguments and claims were supported with evidence and had a coherent message that was easily readable. I was also able to work from my ideas into a larger range of discussion areas that were provided by an extra set of eyes to look over my writing. This was especially helpful in reaching a required word count.  

         I feel fortunate for having had these opportunities for growth. The skills that I have learned throughout this course will serve me well in the future. I am privileged to have had the ability to take this course as a high schooler, as it has given me strengths that will be very beneficial for my future plans in college. I look forward to continuing to sharpen my writing skills throughout the course of my life.