Writing A Reflection Paper

Writing a Reflection Paper

A reflection paper is an opportunity for you to critically engage with and connect to the reading. You may choose to focus on one particular passage or to respond tothe main premise of the selection. You may choose to comment on content and/or the form of the piece of writing. The reflection paper is a dialogue between you and the page about the text you read.Although a reflection paper is not a formal research paper, it should have a coherent or organized structure. It should also be analytical in nature where you take the opportunity to use your ownjudgment to agree, disagree, like, dislike, and relate to the text and EXPLAIN why. You may choose to write a response that is whimsical, poetic, satirical, and/or witty. However, your tone of yourreflection paper should not interfere with the clarity and cohesiveness of your writing.

How do I write a reflection paper?

1. Before you read a selection, make a note of any discussion questionsor ideas that occur to you based on your previous knowledge of the topic at hand.

2. As you read, keep your questions and ideas in mind. You may want to note whether or note the piece you arereading provides you with information or perspectives on one or more of these areas. If so, explain how. Give examples—SUPPORT your ideas.

3. You may choose to briefly summarize the main points orpremises of the selection, but this is only one part of the reflection paper. Remember: Your reflection is NOT a summary of the piece you read. Please try and ask some of the following questions ofyourself to help you prepare what to write:
*What insights have you gained from the reading? (What, for example,
have you learned about the literary genre from this selection?)
*What are thelimitations (not so great moments) of the reading and why?
*How does the text or ideas presented in the text relate to you?

Remember:

To reflect is to think back on something, to step back in...