Dear Dr.

Bruce,
The documents in this portfolio were carefully chosen to depict my growth and improvements as
a scientific writer over the course of this semester. This letter will serve as a guide to
demonstrate how I have developed as a writer through careful analysis of my edited Review
Article, informal peer exchanges, and also this cover letter. The Student Learning Outcomes
(SLOs) are used as a means to evaluate my work.
The document that will satisfy the majority of the SLOs is my revised Review Article. This
formal sample of writing was procured in and out of class using the guidelines provided by the
Web of Science Journal for publication (SLO 1). The purpose of the work was to compile the
research from one particular niche of science and develop an objective and comprehensive story
about a topic (SLO 3). By utilizing articles and investigations from the different fields of
Biology, Psychology, and Neuroscience, I was able to develop an integrative and persuasive
argument as to how diet and exercise habits are affecting individuals with anxiety disorders. To
effectively communicate scientific findings from multiple disciplines, I utilized proper
paraphrasing and citation practices for 20 different articles to convey my findings (SLO 2).
Furthermore, I used headings such as Overview, Physical Inactivity, and Conclusion:
Societal Implications of Research to convey to the reader what the discussion for each
paragraph was. My use of headings ensured that the document remained organized and topics
covered were clear and focused (SLO 4). My utilization of worldwide research, such as the
global data depicting inactivity in adults, highlights the effort I placed on developing a Review
Article that is inclusive of individuals from different demographics and geographic locations
(SLO 5).
I selected three different peer edits to discuss in this cover letter, one of my evaluation of another
individuals work, and two from others evaluating my work. The peer editing allowed for the
students and me to collaborate and discuss how we can improve our writing. My evaluation of
another individuals work allowed for me to address a peer of mine informally with the goal of
helping improve his review (SLO 1). The reviewers and I utilized a standardized rubric to remain
objective, yet helpful, in assisting one another in developing our essays (SLO 6). After reviewing
and incorporating the suggestion from my peer review that I do not "tell a story," I was able to
adapt my work and improve my writing, showing my focus and ability to absorb critiques (SLO
4/SLO 6).
Finally, my ability to organize and develop this cover letter speaks to my aptitude for weaving
unrelated topics together in one cohesive document (SLO 4). I have successfully developed a
persuasive argument that addresses the various SLOs, shown by my integration of different
writing samples from this semester (SLO 3). Additionally, I utilized formal and professional
language to ensure that my writing is perceived as an academic body of work (SLO 5). I know
that I have gained the skills necessary to be a successful writer in the future. I am now keenly
aware of the importance writers need to place on the proper tone and diction required to grab the
attention of different audiences.
Best,
Amanda Iglesias

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