Over the course of the semester, I did several brief in-class exercises in writing. These were designed to assist me in strengthening fundamental academic and critical thinking abilities. These exercises were usually brainstorming, reflective, or examination of the use of rhetorical strategies in scientific readings. These enabled me to consider purpose, audience, and genre in more depth prior to approaching larger tasks.
Some of the in-class writings entailed creating research questions, summarizing difficult concepts in other words, or analyzing peer responses. Others allowed me to delve into the social and emotional aspects of scientific issues like mental health and public understanding. These non-formal writings allowed me to clear my own position, develop my ideas, and become more confident in scholarly writing.
Although short in duration, these sessions were essential in establishing the groundwork for my major projects and assisting in my overall development as a writer.