Assignment # 3 (Reflective Writing)
Due Date: Week 7 (Debate Writing)
Evaluation: 15%
Summary:
The purpose of reflective writing is to help you learn from a particular practical experience. It will help you to make connections between what you are taught in theory and what you need to do in practice.
Instructions:
In a 500-word reflective journal, you are tasked with composing a thoughtful and systematic reflection on your recent debate. Write 6 paragraphs ONLY!
Graham Gibbs’ (1988) reflective learning cycle, with a focus on feelings, serves as a valuable framework for structuring your reflections and demonstrating that learning is taking place.
Follow the steps below to guide your reflective essay:
- Description (Approximately 50 words): Begin your essay by providing a clear and concise overview of the debate. Describe the topic and your position in the debate. This sets the stage for your readers and establishes the context.
- Feelings (Approximately 100 words): Refer to the internal aspects of your experience. Reflect on the emotions, thoughts, and reactions that arose during your preparation for the debate. What were your initial expectations and concerns? How did your feelings evolve as you involved more into the research and the debate itself?
- Evaluation (Approximately 100 words): Assess the strengths and weaknesses of your experience. What went well during your preparation and participation in the debate? What challenges did you encounter? Be specific and provide examples. Did you encounter unexpected obstacles or discover areas where you excelled?
- Analysis (Approximately 100 words): Analyze the causes and consequences of your debate experience. Explore how your research and preparation affected the outcome of the debate. Did you identify key factors that influenced your performance or the team’s success? Use this section to offer insights and draw connections.
- Conclusion (Approximately 100 words): Summarize your major takeaways from the debate. What did you learn from the experience? How has it shaped your understanding of the debate topic and your personal growth? Be specific about the lessons you’ve gained or the insights you’ve had about yourself.
- Action Plan (Approximately 50 words): In the final stage, shift your focus to the future. Contemplate how this experience will inform your future actions. What will you do the same or differently in future debates or similar situations?
Tips:
Write a title for each paragraph!
Spend 5 minutes on brainstorming and outlining before you write your reflective essay.
Word Count: 500-600
No. of Pages: 3