Template for a Class Portfolio

Introduction

Throughout the first half of my CODES class, I have learned how to write in different styles based on what kind of essay I am writing. Although, trying to create an original essay that does not sound like the other ones did challenge me to increase my vocabulary and expand my methods of writing, this aspect being the one that I have done the best in so far. For the rest of this semester, I hope to practice time management and clearing more time to complete essays, so they do not seem rushed,

Goal 1 (15%)

Using Multiple Sources

“Many adults are barely getting by with a paycheck that would have allowed them to live a good life just a few years ago. Hashtags such as #worklife or #corporatelife are being used by these creators as they are now realizing how difficult the next few years are going to be for them” (Reflection 4)

In my 4th Reflection, I took evidence from videos from multiple different Tik Tok accounts. Together, these clips helped form my central themes from the Gen Z population on Tik Tok. Doing so helped me learn how to find multiple pieces of evidence to back up my claim, instead of using one account to represent an entire generation. However, I do realize now that finding more videos with different hashtags would help get a better representation of this population.

Goal 2 (25%)

Analyzing Core Beliefs

“Despite all the bad circumstances that I was involved in, I never wanted to ‘get even’, I just wanted to be able to make people happy. To this day, I still think like this. While I may have moments where I wish bad on people or hope they go through some sort of struggle, I always go back to trying to help and support people. My belief is that people should want to be good or to be nice, but the reality is often very different” (Digital Project 1)

My first Digital Project gave me the opportunity to assess not only my morals and ideals, but those of others as well. I had always wondered why people made the choices that they did. Completing this project allowed me to think on that question and relate my personal beliefs to the beliefs of others. Although I do wish that I had added more persuasive tactics in this project instead of just giving my own opinions.

“While receiving a car may not be so world changing in the long run, since it eventually becomes a necessity for most adults, it is a major milestone in a teenager’s growth” (Reflection 2)

The photo essay that I went over in this project really resonated with me. It really brought me back to the experience of getting my first car. As a result, I was able to truly relate to the themes and messages being described by the author. I could connect my experiences to those of the teenagers in “The First Car” and analyze why we both felt the same ways about finally receiving a car. Unfortunately, I felt like I could have dived deeper into the symbolism behind the pictures.

Goal 3 (30%)

Understanding Multilayered Issues

“While the author does do a great job at using the Yard-sale model to represent real life economics, what he doesn’t discuss is how taxes and income classes can change the dynamic of wealth distribution” (Reflection 3)

In this reflection, I discussed how the author was able to use models to represent money distribution. However, I also mentioned how the author does not go over the effects of economics on money distribution. Throughout the completion of this project, I gained an even greater understanding of how some issues in this world do not have a simple one-step solution. Despite economics, there are other factors that play into money distribution that I did not get the chance to go over in this essay.

“Many people in our world are just heartless, they act based on their own emotions and have no reaction to how it negatively affects those around them. These people usually have a core reason why they are the way they are, whether that be because of a traumatic event from their past or because they need to compensate for other aspects of their life” (Digital Project 1)

Beyond the analysis of true morals, my Digital Project 1 also highlights just how complicated people can be. While it is easy to put people into certain boxes or stereotypes, not everyone is the way they are for the same reasons. Along with that, many people who go through the same experiences can turn out in entirely different ways. Looking back on it, I should have made this point a greater idea in the overall essay.

Goal 4 (10%)

Writing Skillfully

“Unfortunately, finding creative ways to display my knowledge has never been my strong suit. I often found myself repeating the same words or phrases throughout a single paper. So, my first objective would be to widen my vocabulary in a way that allows me to show my understanding of a certain subject without sounding bland or repetitive” (Reflection 1)

Even while I was writing this section of my 1st Reflection about wanting to improve my writing skills, I began to notice how my vocabulary had increased over the summer. Flash forward to midterm, I have found new ways to write, such as using photo essays and even writing personal essays. I have learned so many different methods of creating a story, even though my goal was not truly displayed in this assignment.

Goal 5 (20%)

Seeing Through Bias

“With many creators on TikTok having a decent understanding of our modern-day economy, the best way to get the idea out would be to post videos about the statistics of money exchange on the website, with the right hashtags, so people will start reacting to it and spreading awareness on the subject” (Reflection 4)

Even though I am also from Generation Z, I am not going through the same experience as everyone else from my generation. Some “Gen Z’ers” are in their mid 20’s, while others are still teenagers. I may not use Tik Tok on my own time, I know how influential the app is for most people near my age. However, I should have spent less time trying to relate these creators to myself.