Farewell Summer B 2010

Dear class,

I like to end the semester with a letter to all of you, my students, who decided to stick around with me even after the warnings and the high expectations, particularly for a summer semester. And, I have to give you props simply for that. Taking a writing course during the summer (a short one at that) could possibly be one of the most difficult challenges you could face in the college; so I applaud you. But for future reference, I recommend taking easier classes during the summer. :)

I have, however, for as quickly as it went by, had a blast with all of you. We had great conversations and arguments, listened to each others perspectives and learned from one another. My hope is that through all those conversations, blogs, powerpoints, group activities and presentations I have equipped you all with the tools that you need in order to continue on with your undergraduate studies and be strong critical thinkers who are intrigued and enticed to ask question after question after question; because it is the questions that lead to research and research leads to solutions and new ideas.

As you have become critical thinkers, you have in turn become stronger writers, and we all know that you did a lot of writing, granted some more than others, but I have seen the growth and the development. Some of you simply becoming more refined, while others have made huge growth. I would like to think that most of you have walked away with a better appreciation for the art of writing and the art of rhetoric now that we have come to an end. Additionally, now that you know the techniques involved in argument, whether it be to persuade, inform or entertain, you can appreciate the importance of knowing who your audience is, what your purpose is, how to appeal to your audience through the use of logos, ethos and pathos, what kinds of claims can be used, and how not to commit a fallacy.

For this final blog I would like for you to write an entry describing your experience during this semester in class. Additionally, I would like for you to write about what you have learned, how you feel as a writer after taking this course, and what you would recommend that I could do differently or better. Touch upon whether or not the expectations you had of yourself and myself at the beginning of the semester were met or not. And lastly (and most importantly for me), what you wish you would have learned in high school that would have potentially helped your performance and understanding of writing and rhetoric prior to this class.

My final thoughts...if you see me around campus don't be afraid to say hello or think that I would have forgotten you. One of the greatest aspects of teaching college is bumping into a student over the years and witnessing their growth and change. If you ever need to get in touch with me for help or advice or a letter of recommendation, please feel free to ask (but remember that I won't lie, so make sure I'm the right person you want to ask!). Feel free to keep in touch via twitter and you can always follow my crazy mom stories on my blog stumblesthroughparenthood.com :)

In one way or another you have all touched my life and you will not be forgotten. I wish you all luck with your future endeavors and college experience and that you make the most of it and your potential. (can you tell I'm a mom!? :) )

With love,
Natasha