Tawna’s Reading and Research Journal by

Tawna’s Reading and Research Journal (Start HERE)

tawnalynnmontague — 2025-09-07 17:28:31 UTC

This is my weekly reading journal where I reflect on essays, research, and drafts throughout the semester. My instructor can comment here

Simple Arguments Exercise - Journal Entry

tawnalynnmontague — 2025-09-07 17:59:25 UTC

Rugby is better than most other sports because it uses strength, teamwork, and smart thinking all at the same time. In rugby, every player has to help the team, not just themselves, which makes it a true team sport. The game also needs players to run a lot, be strong, and make quick choices, which challenges both the body and the brain. Millions of people around the world play rugby, showing that it is popular and fun. Some people think rugby is too rough but playing it teaches discipline and how to keep going even when it is hard. Watching a rugby game is exciting because the action keeps moving, unlike sports that stop and start a lot. Rugby’s mix of teamwork, skill, and excitement makes it one of the best sports to play and watch.

Reading Journal Check-In

tawnalynnmontague — 2025-10-03 18:54:56 UTC

So far in this course, my reading journal has been a helpful way to notice connections between the content I encounter in daily life and the topics we discuss in class. arguments clearer and more persuasive. These small pieces of reading whether digital or print have helped me understand how context, audience, and presentation all matter in writing.Overall, keeping this journal encourages me to pay attention to meaningful content in my everyday life and think critically about how it relates to writing. I’ve noticed that connections are everywhere, and reflecting on them strengthens both my reading comprehension and my ability to express ideas in my own writing.

In the introduction of Useful Delusions

tawnalynnmontague — 2025-10-06 00:54:58 UTC

The Power & Paradox of the Self-Deceiving Brain, what stood out to me was how the authors explain that our brains sometimes create beliefs or stories that aren’t entirely true, but these “useful delusions” can actually help us navigate life. I found it surprising that self-deception can be adaptive, helping people stay motivated, make decisions, and maintain mental health even in difficult situations.

I want to know more about how the brain decides which delusions are helpful and why some people rely on them more than others. I’m also curious about whether there are cases where these delusions backfire or become harmful.

Reading this introduction makes me think about my own thought patterns and the stories I might be telling myself without realizing it. I’m looking forward to seeing the real-life examples and research the authors use to explain this phenomenon in the later chapters.