Don Accor

Professor Graham

Rhet 1312 Composition II

Reflection

When I first began taking the Composition I course with Professor Scaife, I

realized I was not where I needed to be as far as my writing potential. The course

required us to compose a complexity essay, as well as an informative and

argumentative essay. Each concept focuses on a specific area of writing skills that

forces you to step out of your comfort zone. Although completing them were not

easy tasks, Professor Scaife showed me that even when writing about the most

complex concepts, anything is feasible. After completing Composition I, I was

required to pursue Composition II, the following class. We were required to complete

a rhetorical analysis, and two argument essays. This course pushed me to an even

higher level in terms of my writing abilities. Professor Graham introduced us to the

Toulmin Model of Argument, which provided guidelines to interpreting your message

in the most exceptional way. The model includes the claim, grounds, warrant,

backing, rebuttal, and qualifier. Each concept of the Toulmin Model of Argument is

essential in terms of covering everything you need to write about any subject of

interest. As a class, we were held to the highest level of accountability when it came

to presenting our thoughts in various forms of rhetoric. As a result, my skills as a

writer were strained, but ultimately strengthened. Critical thinking was emphasized

when it came to writing about any topic. However, the required composition classes
equipped us with the skills necessary to tackle the complex writing process. Instead

of just responding to a prompt, we were taught that entering a conversation about

the subject was the best route to take. Once I realized how important this concept

was, I was able to discuss far more sophisticated topics. Ultimately, each

composition course made the writing process more entertaining and feasible, while

remaining sincere and relevant.