Libby Evans
English 1510
9/4/12

Kantz (67-85) Reader Response

QDJ:

1.) In this reading, Kantz argues that facts are simply what the majority believes to be true. She argues that your opinions and arguments can be valid if they are supported by 

2.) -students expect textbooks to tell the truth (or give an opinion they can take a side on)

     -students write down everything they can think of about the topic

     -students omit or jumble information if conflicts can not be solved or they do not take a stance on either the pro or con side

Based on my own experience I feel she is correct.  I am guilty of just assuming that I have chosen worthy enough sources to just believe they are true.  When I read through my sources I write down everything.  In my mind it is all important because I am so concerned about making my paper longer that I am willing to put any and all information into the paper even if it doesn't really help me make my point.  After reading this article, I understand that I have to read through the information thoroughly and pick out the most important parts.  Also, I now know that it is okay to take my own stance on the issue as long as I can back it up. 

AEI:

2.) When you are mixing creativity with research you have to be careful because that you do not over step your boundaries.  It can be hard to start to use your own opinions rather than actual supported facts.  Kantz makes a point that when we read texts we just assume they are true instead of arguing.  This is where creativity can come in.  If you are able to support your argument you should question it if that's what you feel is right.  This thinking has influenced me to want to change the way I approach writing by applying these ideas to my own writing.

Meta Moment:

Kantz is analyzing the constructs of creativity in research writing.  It would be useful for me to understand her findings and claims because she uses an average student that we can all relate to as she makes her point.  As she describes the student, I caught myself saying, "wow, that sounds like me" a few times so I can take her criticism and use it towards my own writing.