Every year I watch students and parents alike, panic about the “dreaded” essay writing required in every ELA class. I often wonder what it is about the journey of essay writing that creates such a challenge. I have come to realize that in the quest for standardized academic knowledge, we have forgotten to ask learners to address their own personal sense of knowledge. The key to writing an essay relies on the ability to Self Reflect.
The process of penning down an essay often evolves into an intimate dialogue with oneself, inviting a deeper understanding of the subject matter as well as personal insights that may remain hidden beneath the surface of rapid thoughts. This should feel fun and rewarding! To help change your perspective, I want to break down my personal journey of self reflection in essay writing.
The Prelude: Understanding the Subject
Before the first word graces the blank page, the initial step of writing an essay involves scrupulous research and a quest to comprehend the subject at hand. Here, self-reflection plays a crucial role. How do I feel about this topic? What preconceived notions might I carry into my writing? In this stage of pondering, I often find that my emotional responses and intellectual curiosities begin to intersect, laying the foundation for a more nuanced exploration.
As I dig into the research, I am not afraid of contrasting viewpoints. These compel me to confront my biases. For instance, I may hold strong beliefs about a controversial issue, yet challenging my perspective cultivates a richer understanding. A self-reflective stance nurtures a more well-rounded argument. It also creates empathy and a broadening of intellect. Contrasting viewpoints also lead to counter arguments that are a great source of inspiration!
Navigating the Writing Process: A Dialogue with Myself
Once the research is completed, the next step is to form an outline, organize my thoughts, and craft a thesis statement that captivates both my attention and the reader’s. A thesis is an answer to a question that was born from that research process. It is during this phase that self-reflection truly blooms. As I string together ideas, I constantly ask myself: What is MY voice in this essay? How can I infuse my unique perspective while maintaining clarity and coherence? When doing an essay, or helping your child do an essay, keep digging into personal opinions and feelings. Do not answer what you think the teacher may want–what do YOU think? Why do you think this way? What experience in your life helps you to form this opinion? Again, the key to that essay is the ability to self reflect!
Writing becomes an act of self-discovery.
When faced with obstacles or writing blocks, I turn inward and think on my intentions. What am I trying to convey? How does this sentiment resonate with my own life experiences? Instead of viewing writer’s block as a hindrance, I reframe it as an opportunity for contemplation. I keep asking myself personal questions to dig deeper, clarify my emotions, and re-inspire the topic.
Revising and Self Reflecting:
How many students hate the idea that once the first draft is written there is more to go!? But revision is the most important step in the reflection process. This step creates a rich and fulfilled essay.
At this stage I often return to the question: What is the central message I wish to communicate? Revisiting not just the content but also the emotional undertones allows me to refine my work further. It is a delicate balance between my voice and the expectations of the audience. Will they understand and connect with my message? At this point I read it OUT LOUD. I do not skimp on the out loud read. This allows me to check grammar, structure, tone and to REALLY hear myself. Is this the tone I want to use? Does this sound natural and fluid to the ear? Does this make sense when said out loud? Does this go off topic or stick to the theme/thesis? The ability to listen to your own voice bringing the words forward gives an extra layer of realness that will either bring more questions or greater clarity.
The Importance of Feedback
Another vital key to self-reflection in writing a good essay is seeking feedback. Engaging peers or mentors invites perspectives that may challenge my notions. How does my writing affect others? What can I learn from their interpretations? This step forces me to confront writing weaknesses and question the strength of my arguments. Feedback, is not critique but a collaborative effort that deepens understanding of the subject matter, myself, and the audience.
Changing Perspective: From Dread to Personal Journey
So rather than dread doing an essay, I suggest thinking of each essay as an opportunity to not only convey knowledge but also engage in an exercise of understanding oneself. An essay should not feel like something you HAVE to do for a teacher, but an exciting way to get to know yourself better. As the key to good essay writing is the ability to self reflect, an essay contextualizes the information and puts YOU in the center of that knowledge. Unlike standardized academics, essay writing comes from YOUR world views, this is your time to show off who you really are!
