Learning Outcome #2 (Source Use)
Reflection and Evidence
Incorporating quotes from my sources allowed me to include evidence within my essays. It was essential to have a setup and explanation for each quote, as they help tie the evidence into my writing. I included many quotes in paper 1 for this class, many of which were sandwiched. One example of this technique from paper one is, “Embracing complexity is one way society can implement categorization without restraining individual growth and development. Baldwin says that “complexity is our only safety and love is the only key to our maturity.” When complexities are recognized within categories, it is easier to remove generalizations and make room for individuality.” In this example, you see me setting up the main idea of acknowledging complexity to improve categorization. I then introduce a Baldwin quote highlighting some of the importance of complexity. Finally, you see me restate the message from my setup, with a few more specifications pulled from my quote to make my point as prominent as possible. My first few attempts to sandwich a quote did not go as well. There were multiple times when my evidence just repeated my message instead of adding to it. Although that isn’t a huge issue, I found the quotes more persuasive when they weren’t repetitive.