Reflection Papers

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reflection_papers_requirement.docx

Reflection Papers
: Reflection often centers on thoughts, feelings, or reactions to an experience that can enhance learning, knowledge acquisition, and understanding. It is a form of critical thinking and review. The reflective capacity can facilitate awareness of ethical issues or value conflicts, therefore an essential skill for public service professionals.

Students will need to complete two reflection papers. When addressing the question develop a critical analysis of the assigned readings, and make sure to also use outside sources as described for each reflection paper. You should also include your thoughts and reactions to the readings, and discuss your emotional response with a clear explanation. DO NOT SUMMARIZE THE READINGS.

Reflection papers are formal pieces of writing (unlike a journal entry), therefore should be formatted as such. They should be in Times New Roman 12 pt font with 1 in margins. The submission should include a cover page and a reference list.

Reflection Paper # 1
 Outside source: Incorporate a credible website source (.gov or .edu)
 Readings: Skolnick & Skolnick Part 3
Questions: What constitutes “good” parenting? How would you describe your socialization experience? What role do you think corporal punishment plays in parenting?

The following guidelines should be used to develop each reflection:

Each reflection will be formatted into a 5 paragraph essay. You will have three sections, an introduction (paragraph 1), a body of evidence (paragraphs 2, 3, 4), and a conclusion (paragraph 5). Your introduction should end in a thesis statement that contains an argument (should not be a fact or a question). Your body paragraphs should present evidence towards that thesis. Your conclusion should summarize your argument and evidence, and discuss implications of your argument.
Every paragraph should have a beginning, middle and end. Start with an opening sentence that describes the content of the paragraph and links to thesis. A paragraph should be no less than 5 sentences. Each paper should be about 2 to 3 page in length. The key is to be concise!

Complex Connections (10 points)
Does the information go beyond common sense connections (e.g., moms and dads punish kids differently)? Is there a critical analysis of the readings, and are assigned readings and outside sources clearly integrated as described for each reflection paper?

Content (10 points)
How effectively does the paper answer the question(s)? Does the author accurately use the appropriate key terms and are these effectively and thoroughly discussed? Is important information provided? Is there enough evidence to support the argument? Does the presenter provide a summary with critique and implications?

Writing Style (10 points)
Does the author use a professional tone (e.g., use of appropriate word choice, avoid writing the way one might speak, avoid wordiness)? To what extent is the paper clear, easy to read, and direct? Does the paper use standard conventions of punctuation (e.g., commas), sentence structure, spelling, and paragraph development? Are there appropriate in text citations and references in APA style?

Organization (10 points)
Is the paper well organized? Does the paper link topics discussed throughout the sections (Are key terms linked throughout)? Does the paper have a clear beginning middle and end? Is there a clear thesis that addresses the question? Does the paper provide effective transitions and guiding strategies to help the reader understand the general flow (or direction) and goals of the paper?