Assignment 26 – Dilni Abeyrathne

               To spend a year in this AP Language and Composition class has been an amazing venture for me. With a love of literature and writing, I was ecstatic when I first stepped foot into the room, excited to read, write, analyze. Quite honestly, I have thoroughly enjoyed the class and having you as a teacher.

                Before my words dance away from me, I shall provide some constructive criticism for the course. The class was highly enjoyable, but not without its faults, as is anything in life. For one, I would suggest spreading out the specific timed writings, by which I mean having the class do all three types of timed writing throughout the year, not simply focusing on one type for one period of time. I feel that mixing up the timed writings would allow students to perform better, as they would get a taste of each type periodically throughout the year. In addition, though I found the Congress Grading helpful, I feel that ultimately, students should be held more responsible for their annotations. I have seen many a paper returned to me that was absolutely devoid of any type of annotation. I know that I am not a perfect writer, far from it, so I would be very pleased to have as much constructive criticism as possible to improve my style, as I’m sure other students will. Perhaps this could be done by doing a check periodically during the Congress Grading to ensure that everyone puts down at least something on their paper.

                Although the multiple timed writings were extremely helpful, I believe that emphasizing the multiple choice section would have enhanced our confidence for the exam. Simply taking several practice exams will not help greatly, at least in my opinion. It is common knowledge that some students simply do not try on such practice exams, though most do. My solution would be to set aside some time periodically throughout the year to discuss the types of passages and questions that appear on the exam and how to tackle them in the most efficient way possible. I feel that this would greatly enhance student performance on the spring exam.

                Now, since my constructive criticism has had its time to shine, it is time that the more positive comments come up to the stage. First, I thought the Blog Posts were a fantastic edition to the class. As I’m sure everyone knows, essay writing has certain limitations with style, demanding in most cases a formal, professional tone. I have no hatred towards that, none at all! But, I found it a hindrance to my writing style at times. The Blog Posts helped alleviate that. With the variety of rich prompts, I was given the chance to write in my natural style, or experiment when I felt like it. I loved writing the blog posts – they gave me a certain respite from the rigid formality of timed essay writing. In addition, the fact that some of the prompts come straight from college is a major benefit. I feel less anxious now at the labors of writing a college essay.

                I also thoroughly enjoyed the Visual Literacy Projects. Though they did not exactly conform to the test, I found them an interesting endeavor, allowing my creativity to burn brightly. I especially enjoyed the drawing and film-making aspects of the projects. With my usual busyness, I rarely get to do either, and when I do get the change to do them, I am exhilarated. They allow me to unleash my creativity and imagination without limit, and I enjoy that extremely. I am especially happy that we got the chance to make some short films this year. It has been some time since I’ve last made a film, and I have enjoyed the chance this class has given me to reignite that passion. Though I don’t intend on being a filmmaker, I enjoy the moments of peace and happiness making a film affords me.

                At last, my words have flown – danced through my head to the computer before me. I sincerely hope my criticism has been of some use. It is not my wish to pull you down, rather, I only wish to help this class rise. This class has been truly wonderful, and I have loved every moment of it. Writing is my passion, and always will be. This class helped emphasize that passion. It has been a pleasure to have this class this year – and I mean every word I say. In all, I have but two things to say:

                You have taught us well. Thank you Mr. Logsdon, for everything.