Lauren Johnson
English 101, R Busker
Parkland College, Spring 2006
I deserve an A in English 101 because I have consistently and successfully demonstrated proficiency in the class objectives. I have shown my mechanical and logical skills in my writing for this class in every paper assigned, as well as the web posts.
In American Themes of Identity in Superman and Batman I demonstrated by ability to make logical arguments. After stating my thesis, I discussed the transformational process of the two superheroes, giving basic definitions for the language used in the paper. I then continued my argument by discussing birthplace, costuming, and enemies. The result is a comprehensive view of American identity. In discussing many aspects of a particular issue, my arguments gain strength and effectiveness.
In Medical Ethics: AIDS, Informed Consent, and Experimental Treatment I successfully used the The Toulmin Method discussed in class to form a strong argument. I first stated my claim, that all forms of experimental treatment and research must depend upon informed consent. I then gave my reasons, supported by inartistic proofs (expert testimony) and sound logos (what would happen in situations without medical ethics). These examples all demonstrate my ability for form a strong argument and support it with many different types of evidence.
I have repeatedly provided clear and concise examples to support claims made in my papers. In Age and Identity I gave specific examples describing how I have been negatively affected because of my age. In American Themes of Identity in Superman and Batman I discussed how the Batsuit allows the wearer to completely hide his true identity. In A Rhetorical Analysis of “A National Wage Will Improve Living Standards” and “Living Wage Ordinances Reduce Employment” I demonstrated how even something like statistics can reveal bias in an argument. Finally, in Medical Ethics: AIDS, Informed Consent, and Experimental Treatment I gave specific examples of how informed consent can be abused if doctors only obey the letter of the law.
To give credibility to my arguments, I have correctly and appropriately cited outside sources. This was best demonstrated in paper four, Medical Ethics: AIDS, Informed Consent, and Experimental Treatment. Since I claim to have little original knowledge about medical ethics, I cited various textbooks on medical ethics. I correctly showed ethos of cited rhetors. I also effectively summarized their positions on given issues. This demonstrates by ability to use credible outside sources in support of my ideas.
As a direct result of this class, my writing skills have improved over the course of the semester. This is best demonstrated by my revision of paper two. I have developed existing paragraphs to have a more natural, logical flow. I have provided new evidence to support my claim. Lastly, I have developed a writing technique that will be useful in any other academic courses to come.
Additionally, I have attended class, listened to lectures, and completed the required posts. Within in the posts, I have completed the assigned topics and given helpful feedback to my classmates.
For these reasons, I believe I should receive an "A" for this class.
Additional Links:
American Themes of Identity in Superman and Batman
Medical Ethics: AIDS, Informed Consent, and Experimental Treatment
American Themes of Identity in Superman and Batman (Revision)