Gonzalez 1

Kevin Gonzalez

Carrie Hatfield

ENGL1301

July 5, 2018

End of Semester Reflection

Throughout this semester I have learned to write in proper MLA format, learned to

properly correct my grammar mistakes, and learned to refine rough drafts into final copy essays.

I learned to utilize these skills best during the creation of my review essay.

The review essay allowed me to grow the most as a writer throughout this semester.

During the creation of the first two paragraphs I took note of a point of criticism from my

classmate. My explanations needed proper context. For an opinion or statement to make sense,

there must be background information that paints a bigger picture to the readers. As an example,

in Logan, the main characters are directly responsible for the death of a family. This however

cannot be supported without details, which is what my paper needed. After adding in details and

context, I submitted my rough draft. My teacher left fed back after grading it and when I

checked, there were a lot of awkward, and fragmented sentences. Along with this I also needed

to replace various words with stronger verbs by using ratiocination. After correcting these

mistakes, I then realized all my citations were incorrect. I asked my instructor, and in turn I

learned how to properly cite the works I used. Before the review essay I had made each of these

mistakes in the SAR I had written the week prior. None of my points had supporting details, my

paper had improper citations. I had fragmented sentences and extremely weak verbs littered

throughout my piece. Thankfully I was able to have my instructor point out my mistakes and

allow me to correct them myself, allowing me to learn.

 Gonzalez 2

Every piece of writing after my second SAR was made possible from my experience

writing the review essay. I was able to learn the very basics of how to write in MLA format and

this can carry on into my future English classes.