For this project, we had to create an inquiry question based on issues relevant to Criminal Law in Canada. We had to research our chosen question, explain why it was an issue worth conducting an inquiry about, and find evidence to back up our information. Then we were told to find solutions to our original question, explain whether these solutions were reasonable or not, and research other factors involved.

Core Competency Reflection

I can analyze evidence to make judgements. This project pushed me to strengthen this core competency because I was constantly having to analyze evidence and information. I believe I used a rational judgement to uncover relevant evidence to create a project I am proud of.

I can reflect on my thinking. By reflecting on my ideas I was able to take my project and edit it after I was finished to perfect and consolidate my ideas.

I can inquire into and present on topics of interest and topics related to my studies. I demonstrated this core competency by picking an inquiry question to research that was of interest to me as well as relevant to Criminal Law in Canada. My question of “what can prisons do to reduce recidivism” was very enticing and forced me to use my critical thinking skills.

I can persevere with challenging tasks and take ownership of my goals, learning and behavior. I found that creating an argument with strong evidence was a much more challenging task then originally anticipated. However, I was able to organize my thoughts and take ownership of my ideas to create a project that dove deep into my inquiry question.

I can tell the difference between facts and opinions. Going forward I would like to work more on this core competency and be able to differentiate the two better. I will do this by analyzing and rereading articles if I am not positive on its content.

Communication

This is how I select images and words to create an impact for different audiences: My choices regarding colour and shape are all connected to myself and how I wanted to create an impact for the individual looking at my piece. I selected lighter colours for the border and background because I wanted the theme of my tile to be calmer and more relaxed. I choose to create clouds and rain to express emotion and movement within my piece. I feel I selected a good amount of imagery, detail, and shape to represent me without being to overpowering or bold.

Critical and Reflective Thinking

When it seems the good ideas just wont come to me, I take myself out of a situation and try to compartmentalize my thoughts. I also like to ask my peers for their opinions or check Pinterest to help calm myself or create space in my mind to create new, better ideas. By using different sources I am able to relax, clear my head, and restart with a new mindset which helps me to generate new thoughts. I also like to look around at the areas surrounding me to pull inspiration from them.

I respectfully advocate for my needs by asking for help when appropriate and communicating with my peers. Asking for help can be scary sometimes but I have learned not asking for assistance is much worse. Talking to my peers helps me better connect to them and benefits both of us in the end.

Some skills I have developed to make my school work perform better are knowing strategies of how to keep myself calm and engaged. I find listening to music, drinking water, dim lighting and being comfortable, really benefit me when I am studying or doing assignments. Feeling rushed to complete work is one of my biggest downfalls and nothing ever comes out how I want it to when I am in a hurry. Not procrastinating is a big way of how I get my school work to perform better.

One of the ways I ensure my group is clear on the common purpose is to communicate my ideas and hear what my group members thoughts are. Making sure everyone feels included and has a job ensures we will be the most productive and complete our work with no setbacks.