Communication: I demonstrated communication skills in English 12 when I participated in a class discussion and written response about a novel we were studying. I was able to present my ideas clearly by referring to concrete examples and giving direct quotations from the book to back up my interpretations. I also paid a good deal of attention to the points of view of my classmates and answered them in a considerate manner, either by expanding their ideas or by politely indicating a different standpoint. Through both speaking and writing, I adjusted my language to suit an academic audience, showing that I could communicate my thoughts clearly, effectively, and respectfully.
Critical Thinking: I demonstrated critical thinking in Pre-Calculus 12 when I was given a real-world problem that involved modeling the path of a launched object using a quadratic function. Instead of immediately applying a formula, I analyzed the situation to identify the variables involved and determined which information was relevant. I went ahead and used the method that best fit the problem to explain how the math worked and then verified if the answer made sense considering the situation. I further thought about how altering the original scenario would change the graph and the result, thereby demonstrating my capability to reflect on my thought process and change my strategy if necessary.
Creative Thinking: I demonstrated creative thinking in Anatomy and Physiology 12 during a group project where we were required to create an informational video about the digestive system with full creative freedom. My group decided to present the information in the form of a public service announcement (PSA) that would use a clear message, engaging visuals, and a strong narrative to simplify the complex processes. I suggested ways of creatively organizing the material while still being correct from the scientific point of view and helping the textbook information to be turned into more common language for our audience. Our innovative concept turned the video into a great learning tool as well as a source of fun, and the fact that we got an A+ was an indicator of how well we employed creativity to facilitate learning.
Cultural Identity: I demonstrated an understanding of cultural identity in English 12 when we studied a short story that explored how personal experiences, traditions, and background shape an individual’s sense of self. While we were dissecting the text, I thought about how the cultural identities of the characters affected their ethics, struggles, and choices. I related these concepts to my experiences and thought about how culture influences the viewpoints and plays a role in shaping perspectives and interactions in everyday life. This activity helped me recognize the importance of respecting diverse identities and understanding how cultural context deepens meaning in literature and communication.