Reading Reflection

1. RRs should be written in the form of a response to an essay prompt, including:

A thesis statement (1 sentence) in the first (typically brief) intro paragraph responding clearly to the question asked (e.g., In this essay I argue that)

A summary of the key points of your argument supporting your thesis (1-2 sentences directly following your thesis statement, and typically at the end of the first paragraph [e.g., To support my argument, I consider points A, B and C.])

A well-reasoned argument (typically 2-3 paragraphs after the thesis statement paragraph)

Topic sentences describing paragraph contents and reflecting key point in your argument

Sentences containing relevant information and analysis supporting your thesis

A conclusion sentence at the end of the final paragraph that expands on your thesis.

2. Respond to the question based primarily on readings and lectures. There is no need to draw from outside material, though you may do so.     

Write succinctly and clearly, editing out all unnecessary verbiage.

Use proper grammar and pay attention to writing style.

Demonstrate a close reading of the material, and refer to specific points of an authors arguments and examples to support your thesis.

Paraphrase rather than using quotes, unless you want to highlight something specifically related to how an author says what you choose to quote.

3. Your personal opinions and feelings about the material are important, and you are strongly encouraged, but not required, to express these in the assignment. For instance, you may:

Relate issues and themes to contemporary social, environmental or political topics 

Explore your feelings about the issues raised in terms of personal experiences 

Comment on the ethical implications of the issues addressed by the question

Form:  1-2 pages total writing (no third pages, please).

1.5 spacing / 1 margins / 12-point font. 

Use parenthetic references for all citations of quotes and ideas drawn from readings, with page numbers in MLA format [e.g., (Chang 23)].  Do not include a list of works cited, unless you cite material that is not on the course syllabus.  See the Berkeley Library Style GuideLinks to an external site. and the Reading, Writing and Reference Module in bCourses for further guidance.