Q We'll begin this course by writing our own "This I Believe" personal essays. Over the semester we will use this essay as a springboard for other writing assignments and projects. You will have the opportunity to revise and add to it as we move through the course. Each assignment we work on will help you with other assignments. My hope is that you will see the progression of your writing skills as we move through this class. “The birth of a belief is unpredictable and unique to each individual, but the process is universal. Acquiring and naming a belief is an action in which everyone participates equally” (Allison and Gediman 7). Getting started is often the most difficult part of writing. Looking at a blank piece of paper or screen is intimidating, so it is best to always begin with a plan or outline. Let's begin our personal essays by thinking about values that are dear to us. Below are statements that you may or may not agree with, but should get your creative juices flowing. Directions: 1. Read through the list below and choose a statement that resonates with you, or come up with your own. 2. Consider and list experiences in your life that led you to believe in that statement. 3. Compose a paragraph/s that briefly outlines your intentions for your essay. 4. Submit a Word Doc with the three components: • o Statement (I believe...) o Example of experience(s) o Outline paragraph for personal essay Note: Remember, this essay is about what you believe, not what you do not believe. Keep it positive. 1. I believe in making my bed every morning. 2. I believe in taking breaks from social media. 3. I believe in planting flowers or having a garden. 4. I believe in eating my vegetables. 5. I believe in creating playlists. 6. I believe in eating breakfast for dinner. 7. I believe in learning a second language. 8. I believe in the importance of travel. 9. I believe that pets should live inside (or outside). 10. I believe in shopping second-hand stores. 11. I believe in using the public library. 12. I believe that public parks are important. 13. I believe in writing to-do lists. 14. I believe in attending family reunions. 15. I believe in sending birthday/holiday cards to people. 16. I believe in doodling. 17. I believe in shopping local businesses. 18. I believe in keeping a journal. 19. I believe in calling your grandparents/elders. 20. I believe in stargazing/camping/hiking. 21. I believe that I'm hysterically funny. 22. I believe in baking. 23. I believe that those that gossip with us will gossip about us. 24. I believe that people are good. 25. One of your own... Need a model? Click here (Links to an external site.) for a rough draft example.