Intermediate Writing
Selecting the Issue
I chose to focus on food insecurity in Virginia for a few reasons. First, it's a pressing issue that directly impacts countless individuals and families in my state. Second, it's a complex problem with multifaceted causes and potential solutions, offering a rich opportunity for exploration and analysis. Finally, as a student concerned about social justice, I felt compelled to address an issue that disproportionately affects marginalized communities.
Writing and Research Process
My writing and research process was iterative and involved several stages. Initially, I conducted broad research to understand the scope of food insecurity in Virginia, identifying key statistics, causes, and potential solutions. I focused on academic articles, government reports, and data from organizations like Feeding America.
As my understanding of the issue deepened, I narrowed my focus to specific aspects, such as the impact of food insecurity on children or the role of policy in addressing the problem. I incorporated a variety of sources, including news articles, interviews with local food bank representatives, and personal narratives to provide a comprehensive picture.
Evolving Perspective
My perspective on food insecurity evolved significantly throughout the semester. Initially, I viewed it primarily as a problem of poverty and economic inequality. However, as my research progressed, I realized that food insecurity is also a complex issue rooted in systemic factors such as access to healthy food, transportation, and education.
The work of organizations like Feeding America and the Virginia Department of Health was particularly influential in shaping my understanding of the issue. Their data and analysis highlighted the disparities in food access across different communities and the interconnectedness of food insecurity with other social problems.
Writing Styles and Mediums
I primarily employed academic writing styles for my research papers and formal assignments. This allowed me to present complex information clearly and concisely while adhering to the conventions of scholarly discourse. However, I also experimented with narrative and descriptive elements in my personal essays and creative writing pieces to engage readers on an emotional level.
I believe that combining these different writing styles effectively communicated my message about food insecurity. Academic writing provided the necessary foundation of knowledge, while narrative and descriptive elements helped to humanize the issue and foster empathy.
Collaborative Experiences and Growth
Peer reviews and class discussions were invaluable in refining my writing. I learned to appreciate the importance of constructive feedback and to use it to strengthen my arguments. For example, during one peer review, my classmates suggested that I focus more on the impact of food insecurity on children. This feedback led me to conduct additional research and develop a stronger focus for my paper.
My initial goals for the course were to improve my writing skills and develop a deeper understanding of the writing process. While I have achieved these goals, I have also gained a greater appreciation for the power of language to effect change. My new goals as a writer, student, and citizen include using my writing to advocate for social justice and to contribute to positive change in my community.
I believe that this course has equipped me with the skills and knowledge to become a more effective communicator and critical thinker.