Discussion

Notes Reflection

Throughout the semester we would periodically partake in a group discussion regarding an
assigned reading from the last class. We were allowed to choose our own groups, and they
could be of any desired size. As a group we would discuss one to two assigned readings, and
then answer some questions provided by Ms. Knudson. These questions made us think deeper
about the reading itself, and also helped us better understand what the author was saying. The
two discussion notes that I chose both had to do with cultural issues in our country. The first
discussion I chose asked the groups to define the poverty line and where it came from? It also
asked us the difference between the successful people we had chosen from a previous daybook
entry, and compare them to the successful people portrayed in the reading? Finally, we were
asked to talk about upward mobility, and if there was a large group of people in this country
who were not accessible to it? This discussion stood out to me a lot due to its thought
provoking nature. It made the group think about the opportunities of poverty stricken
Americans and if success was more about money or happiness. The second discussion that I
chose focused on cultural myths in America. I found this to be a very intriguing topic that
would. The first question asked us to list out things that all Americans should know. We said
things like how to do taxes, how the government works, how to read, why voting is important,
and your rights as an American. The second question asked us what some of the reasons the
author gave for studying cultural myths. This question, especially interested me because of the
response we created. We said that is important to study cultural myths so you as an individual
are able to form original thoughts, and then accurately choose whether you agree or disagree
with them. We also stated that by studying them you can better understand how society thinks
and acts. I found this very interesting, especially with all the racism and hate going on in our
country right now. It is important to form your own opinions and not be engulfed with the
societal expectations. Without these discussions I would never have thought deeply about
these questions ergo thinking about my personal beliefs. These discussions were one of my
favorite aspects of UWRT 1103, making me change the way I think about society.