TOPIC REFLECTION JOURNALS:

To better understand how the concepts and topics we discuss in class apply to "real life," you will complete a topic reflection journal. This will consist of 5 typed entries, each due at different points in the semester. Your reflections should describe how you've connected to/experienced/understand the topic at hand. You can apply the topic/concept to:

1. An interaction you had with someone,

2. A television show you watched,

3. A song lyric you heard,

4. A news story or magazine article you read, or

5. A news program you watched.

Each entry should be 1½ to 2-pages, double-spaced, and each should include the following 3 parts:

1. A concise but descriptive summary of the topic/concept (1 paragraph)

2. Explain in detail how you connected your experience to the concept (1 page)

a. You need to explain the situation or media (if a song lyric, newspaper article, or magazine article, please attach)

b. You need to use specific concepts/ideas from the concept to explain the situation/media

c. I should be able to see that you are better able to explain and/or understand the situation or media piece by directly applying the concept IN DEPTH

3. Reflect on and answer the following questions (1/2 page)

a. Do you like this topic? Why/why not?

b. How might better understanding this topic/concept help you in your personal and/or professional life?