Work Sample #2
Name of Assignment: Hawaiian Heroes: Argumentative Essay
Subject: Modern Hawaiian History
Facilitator/Teacher: Mr. Adam
Description of Work/Assignment: This assignment was a segment to a larger project; the Hawaiian Heroes project. In this segment, we were assigned to write an argumentative essay about why our hero(mine was Kaahumanu) was important to Hawaiian history.
Which 21st Century Skill do you feel this assignment addresses, and why?
This assignment addresses the Global Awareness skill. This is because, though Hawaiian history may not seem relevant to modern culture, the lives of Hawaii's residents have been greatly shaped by their history. Learning about the history of the Hawaiian people and how it affects us can help us understand their way of life, religious inclinations, and relationship with history as a whole.
What are you most proud of from this assignment, and why?
I am most proud of all the research I did and how I related that to the information in my essay. Research has never been my strong suit, so I'm always proud of myself when I feel I've done a good job. With this essay, I had to rely a lot on the internet and various credible websites to keep my information factual.
How did you develop and/or improve upon your 21st Century Skill with this assignment?
Before this assignment, the relationship between the Hawaiian people and Christianity always confused me. I was under the impression that it was forced on them by colonizers. However, according to my research, it was Kaahumanu who inspired the shift to Christianity by being one of the first public figures to convert and subsequently promote the new religion. Through this, I believe I have increased my global awareness and understanding.
What was most difficult about completing this task?
As I said before, I have a lot of trouble with research. If it's not a subject that I am partial to, i can easily find myself getting distracted.
How could you improve this work? If you could start over, what would you do differently?
If I were to start this project over, I would probably work on my transitions. I don't think I did a particularly bad job, but I believe it could still use work.
How does this relate to what you have learned in the past?
As I mentioned in a previous work sample, I am well versed in the art of argumentative essays. My previous experience made this process easier as well as making it more enjoyable.
How can you apply this to future learning?
I can apply this to future learning by taking what I learned about my weakness in transition phrases and practicing those to get better. Why not learn from one's mistakes to improve upon oneself, right?