Essay #4: Portfolio and Theory of Writing

Reflection allows us the opportunity to process knowledge and then apply that knowledge. Through reflection, we can come to an understanding and interpret what we have learned. This semester, on several occasions, we have used reflection in this way; in this final assignment you will return to this definition of reflection.

You have also been developing your theory of writing and what your theory of writing means in terms of its relationship to your writing, whether you enact your theory of writing in your own composition. As a result of this, you have had the opportunity to create a knowledge base of writing and its practices. In this final reflection, you will be returning to your theory to discuss several questions, including (but not limited to):

Define your theory of writing.

What was your theory of writing coming into this class? How has your theory of writing evolved with each piece of composing?
What has contributed to your theory of writing most?
What is the relationship between your theory of writing and how you create(d) knowledge?
How might your theory of writing be applied to other writing situations both inside and outside the classroom?

For each of these questions, you will need to support your ideas with your previous writing in this course and, through these examples, interpret what you have learned. You will create a compelling argument for whatever you decide to write for this, supported by evidence and analysis of the work completed in class this semester.

You will choose a genre to work in–letter, email, essay, journal entry, or any genre you want that is approved by your instructors–that you feel best represents your goals for your reflection and then explain why you chose that genre. In turn, you will also describe how your chosen genre affects the outcome (the final product) of your reflection.

This final reflection is an opportunity for you to demonstrate your increased knowledge in writing–the practices of writing, the key terms, and any specific skills you’ve acquired. Think of this piece as another move in the evolution of your theory of writing, and as a chance for you to fully explore yourself as a writer and maker of knowledge.

Evaluation Rubric & Considerations| Use the following guiding questions as criteria when assessing your and your classmates’ essays. I will be using the same rubric when I grade the final drafts.

• Is your Portfolio aesthetically pleasing? Color and design and font are accounted for, yes?
• Is it legible and coordinated?
• Is there consideration being made toward audience in the portfolio website as a whole
• Does the final product demonstrate visual literacy in its use of images, screencaptures of work, etc.?
• Does your Theory of Writing convey a sense of growth and progress and building?
• At a glance when opening each page of your portfolio and scrolling through the Theory of Writing, does it seem “polished?” Are there paragraphs? Is there a structure?