Reflection Paper on the book On Identity by Amin Maalouf

Make sure that you show deep understanding of the book, and that you make connection with larger contexts in real life and current events. Also, please note that you are required to make some connections to other readings that we have read in class.
The readings to consider when making connection with (On Identity):
– The Spiral Staircase
– The Second Prize
– The Other Face by Samia Shallash – Article
Assignment details will be provided below, please make sure that you are deep enough to show full understanding of the book, and make sure to stick to the rubric provided.

Format:
? Please word process this paper and submit it towww.turnitin.com by the due date.
? 12-point font, and 2.5 cm (1”) margins at the top, bottom, left, and right. Double space.
? The length should be 3 – 4 typed pages, or 750 – 1,000 words.
? Be sure to include a title centered at the top of the first page.
? You are encouraged to quote from any of the texts we have read, but when you do so, be sure to use quotation marks when you use the author’s words and to cite the author’s last name and the page number after each quote.
Task:
Select ONE of the following prompts and write your reflections based on the prompt.
1. At the end of On Identity, Amin Maalouf imagines his grandson reading his book years in the future. Imagine that you are now 75 years old and your first grandchild has just gone abroad to start university. What would you like to communicate to him/her about identity in general and about yourself and your identity during your time at AUC? In this letter to your grandchild (for whom you may imagine and make up a name), explain who you are at this point in your life and what forces are shaping your identity. Refer to your innate preferences and heritage, as well as writers, ideologies, the times, and environmental conditions that have impacted your sense of identity.
OR
2. You have just finished reading On Identity by Amin Maalouf. Write a letter to Maalouf describing how your concept of identity has changed or expanded since reading his work. Include a paragraph describing yourself and some of the elements of your identity that you consider important; in other sections, tell him which parts of his argument you agree with and what you disagree with and why. Describe what challenges to identity you face as an AUC student at this moment in history.

The outstanding reflection paper should have the characteristics listed below. Your paper will be graded on a 1-5 scale for each characteristic, although all characteristics will be integrated thoroughout the paper.
1. Deep understanding of content: Shows evidence of a serious and sincere attempt to explore, comprehend, and find answers to the first “Big Question:” Who am I? Conveys an attitude of engagement and curiosity. Gives specific evidence (examples, details, and quotes) from readings to support points.It should show that you have read and comprehended the texts we have been discussing.
2. Response: Shows that student has reflected deeply on the course content and readings.  He/she shows a clear thoughtful and/or emotional reaction to the question. Gives specific evidence (examples, details, quotes) from readings.
3. Connections: Shows that student can connect the ideas in On Identity with a larger context, including his/her own experiences and identity, other knowledge, and/or other readings both in the course and/or from other courses.
4. Voice: Demonstrates a strong and unique voice. Gives enough specific details and clear illustrations to make the writing and the message vividly come to life. You have a number of options to be creative and let your voice be heard in a unique way.