1) Throughout this unit, what skills have you improved on? This unit is the first time I have written and discussed a book with peers. I chose to read "IF I Ever Get Out of Here", written by Eric Gansworth. I have learned how to lead focused conversations, by being the group directer for our collaboration and discussion time periods. Using the "Summary" portion or the discussion booklet, I have improved my abilities to summarize events in a book in a minimal amount of words. I have also learned how to further and more effectively connect text to myself, other literary pieces, and to the world. 2) Explain how the conversations and viewing your peer's work have allowed to to develop your listening. I enjoy hearing opinions on controversial topics or ideas. Hearing others' opinions can be very eye-opening and informative. Sometimes, you can only see one side of an idea, when another person has a totally different viewpoint. Without listening, there is no way to hear that different side. Another part of this unit I have enjoyed has been seeing how my classmates' altered books (for the FNMI novels) have turned out. I loved seeing different ideas and images mix together in an artistic way. Being part visual learner, it really helped me to understand teh different motifs, situations and scenes from the stories. 3)What skills do you need to further develop? There are a couple of skills that I could further develop. I would like to improve on organizing my thoughts and assignments to be able to consistently hand everything in on time. I constantly struggle with time management, and always have. Whether that be from extra-curriculars, dance, or work from other classes all piling up in my head, I can never quite keep track of everything I need to due. My thoughts tend to be all over the place! To avoid missed due dates or sloppy projects, I need to remember to write assignments, homework, and due dates down. Calendars need to become my best friend, and a planner may be a good investment, as well. | Groovy article about metacognition here |