Core Value 1.My work demonstrates that I used a variety of social and interactive practices that involve recursive stages of exploration, discovery, conceptualization, and development.

My Definition Rewrite represented a recursive, multi-step writing process, as I revised my definition drafts based on research, feedback, and the writing process itself. For instance, I started with an analysis of the tension between artistic expression and technical performance in Olympic figure skating, but my analysis changed once I started looking into the International Judging System (IJS) and scoring trends. Peer discussions and feedback helped me clarify the focus of my argument, and drafting and revision helped me better balance evidence and interpretation. This recursive process also incorporated local and global revisions; I rewrote paragraphs to ensure logical flow while returning to my thesis to guarantee it aligned with my evidence. This assignment is indicative of how perseverance and collaboration influenced my writing as I interacted with sources and considered their method of scholarly engagement through figure skating and its community.

Core Value 2. My work demonstrates that I read critically and placed texts into conversation with one another to create meaning by synthesizing ideas from various discourse communities.

In my Causal Rewrite on the influence of artistic focus on technical skills in Olympic ice skating, I critically engaged with diverse sources to connect artistic emphasis with a decline in technical execution. For example, one source provided insights into the International Judging System’s (IJS) prioritization of artistic components like interpretation and choreography. Another explored trends in quadruple jump attempts, highlighting their decline in recent competitions. Initially, these sources seemed disconnected, focusing on separate aspects of figure skating. However, through close reading and synthesis, I used these findings to build a cohesive argument that linked the IJS’s scoring priorities to skaters’ shifting training focuses.

By placing these texts in conversation, I crafted an argument that showed how scoring changes have incentivized skaters to prioritize artistry at the expense of technical innovation. This process demonstrated my ability to analyze complex arguments and derive meaning by integrating perspectives from different discourse communities. It also reinforced my understanding of how synthesis can create a more comprehensive narrative that supports my claims effectively.

Core Value 3.My work demonstrates that I rhetorically analyzed the purpose, audience, and contexts of my own writing and other texts and visual arguments.

In my Rebuttal Rewrite, I specifically tailored my argument to address skeptics of the idea that technical execution should take precedence over artistry in figure skating. Recognizing that my audience might include readers who value artistry or believe in balancing the two components equally, I incorporated rhetorical strategies such as counterargument and refutation to engage their perspectives. For instance, I referenced celebrated skaters like Nathan Chen and Yuna Kim to acknowledge artistry’s role in creating memorable performances, thus establishing common ground with readers who admire these aspects of the sport.

Additionally, I structured my argument to highlight the practical challenges skaters face when attempting to balance technical and artistic demands, effectively appealing to an audience of both figure skating enthusiasts and those unfamiliar with the sport’s nuances. By presenting evidence like the decline in quadruple jumps and the mental toll on athletes, I framed my argument within a context that emphasized real-world implications rather than abstract ideals.

This careful consideration of audience expectations and rhetorical context demonstrated my ability to craft a persuasive argument that both respects opposing views and strengthens my own position.

Core Value 4. My work demonstrates that I have met the expectations of academic writing by locating, evaluating, and incorporating illustrations and evidence to support my own ideas and interpretations.

In my Purposeful Summary on Fabienne Charisma and the media ethics debate surrounding her tragic death, I engaged deeply with information literacy by evaluating how various forms of media coverage shaped the narrative of her story. To craft an informed and balanced summary, I critically analyzed the ethical implications of using imagery of suffering to elicit global compassion. This required me to contextualize my analysis within broader conversations about journalism, humanitarian crises, and ethical reporting.

I carefully selected evidence to highlight the dual nature of such coverage—raising awareness while risking exploitation. By presenting this evidence objectively, I ensured my writing addressed the complexity of the issue without oversimplifying it. Additionally, I evaluated the sources for their credibility and relevance, ensuring that the information I incorporated accurately represented the ethical dilemmas journalists face in such scenarios.

This assignment demonstrated my ability to use research to inform my writing, contextualizing ideas within existing conversations while maintaining academic integrity. I met expectations for proper documentation, ensuring that my summary was grounded in factual evidence while respectfully acknowledging the broader ethical challenges in reporting human suffering.

Core Value 5. My work demonstrates that I respect my ethical responsibility to represent complex ideas fairly and to credit the sources of my information with appropriate citation.

In my Research Paper, I ensured all sources were properly cited in MLA format and carefully distinguished my analysis from others’ perspectives. I presented a balanced argument by including both sides of the debate on artistry and technical precision, acknowledging the complexity of the issue. By avoiding exaggeration and using credible evidence, I upheld academic integrity and ensured my work responsibly contributed to the broader discussion.