1. How does the author feel about her writing abilities?
The author Shannon Nichols emphasizes her idea that “I loved writing just as much as I loved math. It was one of my strengths. I was good at it, and I enjoyed it. If anything, I thought I might fail citizenship”. Nichols strongly expresses herself as a top student during her elementary and middle school years. She also felt confident and enjoyed writing as much as, or better than any other courses she could mention. And, she also thought she would never fail in writing in her life. Unfortunately, after finishing two standardized tests, she was surprised and confused to see the results she did not expect. Even though she passed the third attempt, she did not have the same passion for reading and writing that she used to.
2. How does the author feel about standardized tests?
The author Shannon Nichols argues the idea that “How can I get A’s in all my English classes but fail the writing part of the proficiency test twice?” She was surprised to see that even though she was smart enough to keep A’s in all English classes but she still could not find out what went wrong with her standardized tests. Also, no one could answer that questions. She also did not know the reason for failing and felt hopless, unfair and unsure about her ability to retake standardized tests. I also agree with the author because someone will keep making mistakes unless he or she is aware of them.
3. Retell the author’s journey as a writer.
In the article “Proficiency” by Shannon Nichols, the author expresses herself as a top, brilliant high school student in Ohio needing to take the standardized writing test to graduate. Although the test was hard, She felt confident in writing. She lost that confidence when she found out about the first test result that she did not pass. Then, she decided to try a second attempt wishing for the best but she failed again. At that time, she cried and reached out for help to her teachers and friends. Despite successfully passing on her third attempt, her passion for reading and writing had never been the same since that moment. She also claimed that if she knew reasons for failing the first test, she could have done well on the second try and keeping alive her passion for writing by describing the idea that “I wish I knew why I failed that test, because then I might have written what was expected on the second try, maintained my enthusiasm for writing and continued to do well”.
4. If you were Mrs. Brown, the author’s English teacher, what would you say when the author asked: “How can I get A’s in all my English classed but fail the writing part of the proficiency test twice?”
As Mrs. Brown, I would say writing proficiency tests often have specific rules and requirements and do not get discouraged by that. I also would suggest to try and seek comments and remarks from her teachers and friends.
5. How do you feel about your writing abilities?
Although I can say my writing style is not advanced, I can convince it is within normal. While I do not possess an exceptional and fancy words, I try to express clear and understandable thoughts. Also, I may be making mistakes but I am always looking for feedback, and try to improve to get better.
One thought on “Conversation 1 (Nay Lin Kyaw)”
Nay Lin, your analysis of Shannon Nichols’ journey is great. It captures her initial confidence, the impact of standardized test setbacks, and the enduring consequences on her passion for writing. I agree with telling Shannon not to get discouraged, as Mrs. Brown. And about your writing, the first step is acknowledging room for improvement. Keep it up, embrace feedback, and keep growing!