Getting Started

Weekly Report 1: 08/20/2018 to 08/26/2018

Since it is a brand new year, my week has been spent reviewing everything ISM-related. Presenting two introductory speeches was a good refresher for my public speaking skills; I noticed that I have been slipping back into using filler words as crutches, and I also felt that nervous energy again. Hearing commentary on other students’ speeches helped me to better understand areas of improvement because it has been a few months since I last gave a presentation. Specifically, it was helpful to hear notes about the significance of using hand gestures, as well as how to release some of that nervous energy. I tend to feel stuck when speaking, and often out of breath, so rolling my toes, moving around, and speaking more deliberately were all great tips that Mr. Speice, along with other students, shared with us.

In addition, reviewing different research techniques was very advantageous to beginning the assessment process again. I never fully learned how to use Scrible last year, so getting an in-depth explanation was beneficial to improving my annotation techniques. Moreover, the database activity was surprisingly applicable since I am studying a completely alternate topic this year. Last year, the research I completed for general law consisted of using databases such as Opposing Viewpoints in Context and World History: The Modern Era. However, now that I will be learning about advertising and creative digital design, exploring the various options for researching these topics was conducive to a solid start to my studies. I am looking forward to beginning the ISM process again this year, as well as making use of all of the opportunities that it provides.