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Are there multiple lenses with which I can interpret my texts? How do they work together to construct meaning? How does knowing about literary lenses support my understanding of the complexity of a text?

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Are there multiple lenses with which I can interpret my texts? How do they work together to construct meaning? How does knowing about literary lenses support my understanding of the complexity of a text?

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Yes, there are definitely multiple lenses with which I can interpret my texts, and each one brings a unique perspective that deepens my understanding of their complexity. For example, beyond the sociological lens, I’ve also used a psychological lens to explore how characters' internal struggles and emotional growth shape their decisions and interactions. In The 57 Bus, I could interpret Sasha and Richard’s actions through a psychological lens, considering the trauma and influences on their behavior, such as Richard’s possible motivations stemming from his own struggles with identity and anger. By applying a psychological perspective, I see the depth of Richard’s internal conflict and the role of societal pressures in shaping his actions. This contrasts with a sociological reading, which highlights the external forces like race, gender, and class. Knowing about literary lenses supports my understanding by helping me dissect a text from various angles, revealing layers of meaning that might not be immediately apparent. Each lens—whether psychological, sociological, feminist, or others—adds depth, allowing me to explore not just what happens in the story but also why it happens and what it signifies on multiple levels.

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How have I interpreted my texts using one of the literary lenses? What are some of the potential messages or significant themes that have emerged through these pieces?

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How have I interpreted my texts using one of the literary lenses? What are some of the potential messages or significant themes that have emerged through these pieces?

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I’ve primarily interpreted my texts through a sociological lens, focusing on how societal structures, power dynamics, and social issues influence the characters and themes within each work. For example, in The 57 Bus, I looked at how social factors such as race, class, and gender shaped the lives of Sasha and Richard, as well as the broader implications of the justice system's treatment of them. In If You Tell, applying a sociological lens helped me understand how family trauma can perpetuate cycles of abuse and silence. The narrative of survival and the quest for justice against a backdrop of institutional neglect highlighted themes of power, control, and the role of community in either enabling or resisting abuse.

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What do the texts in my collection reveal about what it means to be human? Or to belong to a human community?

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What do the texts in my collection reveal about what it means to be human? Or to belong to a human community?

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The texts in my collection reveal that being human is deeply tied to our capacity for empathy, resilience, and the search for identity within a larger community. In The 57 Bus, the exploration of Sasha and Richard’s lives speaks to the complexity of human choices, the struggles of identity, and the impact of societal labels. It shows how our actions can shape not just our own lives but also the lives of others, and how the path to understanding one another often requires confronting uncomfortable truths. If You Tell highlights the darker side of humanity—the capacity for cruelty and control—but also the incredible strength of survivors. It shows that belonging to a human community isn’t always about shared experiences but about finding those who will listen, validate, and stand with us in our most difficult times.

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How can I speak to the INTERTEXTUALITY of my collection of texts or genres of texts that I feel speak to each other? Are they connected in some significant way? Does reading/watching one help me understand another?

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How can I speak to the INTERTEXTUALITY of my collection of texts or genres of texts that I feel speak to each other? Are they connected in some significant way? Does reading/watching one help me understand another?

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The texts I've consumed this semester have a strong sense of intertextuality, where they speak to one another across genres and themes. For example, The 57 Bus and If You Tell both deal with issues of justice, consequences, and human vulnerability, but they approach these themes from different angles—one through the lens of a hate crime, the other through the trauma of familial abuse. Reading these two back-to-back helped me see how societal systems and personal actions intersect, deepening my understanding of power dynamics and empathy. Similarly, Out of My Mind and The One and Only Ivan both explore themes of communication and the way society often overlooks those who are different or misunderstood. They speak to the idea that despite physical or external limitations, the inner worlds of these characters are rich and valuable, which helped me deepen my understanding of disability and identity in a broader sense.

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How have I/could I 'read' my texts like an English Professor? How did I deepen my understanding or interpretation of the text?

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How have I/could I 'read' my texts like an English Professor? How did I deepen my understanding or interpretation of the text?

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To read like and English professor, I've learned to approach them with a critical lens, analysing not just the plot but also the underlying themes, character development and literary techniques. For example, in The 57 Bus, I focused on how the author uses narrative structure to weave together the lives of Sasha and Richard, exploring the broader implications of identity, justice, and forgiveness. I also paid attention to the symbolism of the bus itself, seeing it as a metaphor for the intersection of different worlds.

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How is my identity, worldview, or understanding of humanity shaped by the texts you consume?

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How is my identity, worldview, or understanding of humanity shaped by the texts you consume?

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The texts I consume, such as The 57 Bus, If You Tell, and Out of My Mind, deeply shape my understanding of identity, worldview, and humanity by challenging me to consider perspectives outside my own. these stories expose the complexity of human experiences whether it's grappling with injustice, overcoming trauma, or navigating personal challenges like disability and identity. They prompt me to think critically about issues such as empathy, resilience, and the impact of out choices on others. Overall, these texts help me to see the world as a place where individuals, despite their struggles, have the power to change their own narratives and influence those around them.

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What patterns, or gaps, exist in the literature and/or media I consume?

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What patterns, or gaps, exist in the literature and/or media I consume?

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A clear pattern I have noticed in the literature and media I consume is a strong emphasis on suspense. Whether it's the tension-building in The 57 Bus or the gripping, emotional twists in If You Tell, I am drawn to stories that keep me on the edge of my seat, eager to see what happens next. This sense of anticipation often fuels my engagement, making me want to keep reading or watching to unravel mysteries or uncover deeper truths. It's the uncertainty and the slow reveal of information that really keeps me invested in these narratives.

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How might these texts reflect my thoughts, views, values and / or experiences?

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How might these texts reflect my thoughts, views, values and / or experiences?

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These texts resonate deeply with my thoughts, shaped by my ongoing fear of danger. The crime stories I read seem to mirror my anxieties, depicting scenarios that closely align with my own worries about what could happen. While they don't directly reflect any personal experiences, they serve as a powerful reflection of my inner fears and concerns.

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A novel that delves into themes of perseverance, self-advocacy, and the challenges of living with a disability, while highlighting the importance of seeing people for who they truly are, not just their limitations. 

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A heartwarming and thought-provoking story that explores themes of friendship, freedom, the power of art, and is a touching reminder of the importance of empathy and kindness.

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How might these texts be influencing my thoughts, views, values and/or actions?

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How might these texts be influencing my thoughts, views, values and/or actions?

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The texts I read have the potential to influence my thoughts in various ways. Society often assumes that someone who enjoys true crime might be more inclined to mimic those behaviors, but I don’t believe that’s the case. For me, reading true crime serves as a way to relieve stress and gain insight. Each story offers a glimpse into real-world consequences, helping me better understand the risks associated with certain actions and how to navigate them safely. While I don’t think these texts would directly influence my own behavior, they might encourage me to take extra precautions to avoid dangerous situations. Ultimately, I believe that reading true crime enhances my awareness and helps shape my thoughts in a positive direction.

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What does the literature and/or media I consume say about me?

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What does the literature and/or media I consume say about me?

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My favourite genre of literature and media is true crime. I enjoy the mystery and suspense that comes with each story. I also find myself curious throughout the story about the motivation behind the criminal and how their actions have an effect on society. Finally, being a very anxious person I find that reading about these stories actually helps me stop catastrophizing situations in my own life. I believe that true crime says that I am a very curious human being with an open mindset as to what is happening around me in the real world.

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This true story explores the lives of both teens before and after the event, diving into themes of identity, race, gender, justice, and the impact of choices. It also delves into the complexities of the justice system and the question of forgiveness. 

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This true story discusses a gripping and heartbreaking account of the abuse, the trauma the sisters endured, and their eventual pursuit of justice. It explores themes of resilience, survival, and the importance of breaking the silence surrounding abuse.