For each of the two main readings for the week (see below for which readings), you must
respond to two of the following three questions:
What is the Main Point? Reading assignments often contain a lot of information. What is the
main concept that the author is trying to get across? This may, or may not, have been explicitly
stated in the reading. Why did the author choose to emphasize this point, and not some other?
Your response is not a summary of the chapter, but an analysis of it in a way that creates new
meaning for you.
What is Surprising? Your response to this question should be reflective. Did you learn
something that is in conflict with your previous notions of the world? Did you learn something
that fascinates you in a way that you didn’t expect? How does this new knowledge connect with
material in other courses, or with other parts of your life? Responses must also clearly explain
“why.”
What is Confusing? Responses to this question require careful reading and reflection; it is only
though the process of reconciling new information with our existing knowledge structure that we
become aware of inconsistencies, or “gaps” in our understanding. Responses to this question
should be specific and actionable – that is they should outline a clear path to understanding.
Responses must also clearly explain “why.”
Additional Assignment Notes:
● Please clarify which reading you are reflecting on. This can be with a heading
or with a simple statement of the article title and author. Use of direct quotes
from the reading is encouraged, but not required. If you do use a direct quote,
please use a page number.
● Be sure to reflect on BOTH of the week’s primary readings using the
questions above to guide you.
● For EACH of the two journal articles/book chapters for the week, you should
write between 500 words reflecting on the reading material. This means a
total of 1000 words for each weekly reflection.
● Please use complete sentences and pay attention to the word count. All other
formatting decisions are up to you.
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