Figueroa 1

Pablo Figueroa

June 11, 2023

Lopatko

WRIT 2

Reflective Letter

Looking back at my original free write for this project, I can see how my perspective on

the topic of writing has evolved over the course of the project. Initially, I had various questions

and experiences related to writing, reading, and literacy that interested, frustrated, or excited me.

Through the process of exploring a scholarly conversation about these topics, I gained a deeper

understanding of the Writing Studies discourse community and how academic writing functions

as a conversation within this community.

The scholarly conversation I engaged with in this project helped answer some of my

initial questions and shed light on new ones. It provided me with valuable insights into different

perspectives on writing, reading, and literacy. By analyzing the articles, understanding the

research questions they addressed, and examining how the authors engaged with one another's

work, I was able to grasp the ongoing dialogue within the Writing Studies discourse community.

In terms of genre, for this project, I chose to present the conversation I listened to in the

"Burkean parlor" through a Twitter Thread format. I believed that a Twitter Thread would be an

effective medium to convey the conversational nature of the scholarly discussion. By using

audio, I could engage the audience with the voices and ideas of the scholars, allowing them to

experience the conversation in a more immersive and dynamic way. This choice differed from
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my previous project (WP1), where I created a YouTube video, highlighting the versatility and

adaptability of different genres.

Through this project, I learned that genres play a crucial role in shaping how

conversations are conveyed to specific audiences. Different genres have their own conventions

and affordances, and selecting the appropriate genre is essential for effectively communicating

the content and purpose of the conversation. Moreover, I gained a deeper appreciation for the

Writing Studies discourse community and how scholars contribute to it through their research,

citing one another's work, and building upon existing knowledge.

This project has significantly contributed to my writing goal for the quarter by enhancing

my research skills and my ability to engage with academic conversations. I have learned how to

navigate research databases, critically evaluate scholarly articles, and synthesize information

from multiple sources. Additionally, I have developed a greater understanding of the importance

of citation practices and the role they play in situating one's own work within a larger

conversation.

Overall, this project has provided me with valuable insights into the dynamics of

scholarly conversations, the role of genres in conveying those conversations, and the significance

of engaging with the Writing Studies discourse community. The skills and knowledge I have

gained through this project will undoubtedly benefit me in future academic endeavors,

empowering me to contribute meaningfully to conversations within my own field of study.