This unit will have a portfolio assessment. However, it is not like the other portfolios you will complete for Language Arts. Instead, this is just writing three paragraphs answering three questions about a text that you will read and analyze in the three portfolio lessons. Here is a preview of the three questions you will answer for the text Perfectly Imperfect by Donna Bozzone.

Write a paragraph in which you analyze the text structure of the informational text. Identify the text structure. Explain how you identified it. Tell how the author’s choice of structure helped you as a reader.
Write a paragraph in which you analyze the author’s purpose and point of view. Explain how you determined the author’s point of view. Tell how thinking about the author’s purpose and point of view helped you understand the topic.
Write a paragraph in which you analyze how the author distinguished their position from other positions. Explain what you learned from thinking about the different positions. Give examples from the texts.
Make sure to review the rubric (Portfolio 3 Lesson, page 8) so you know how I will grade the three paragraphs. You will submit your portfolio on the last page (page 9) of the Portfolio 3 Lesson. Make sure to attend the Live Lessons as we will go over this portfolio together. Reach out with any questions!

1 answer

Certainly! Below are sample paragraphs addressing each of the three questions related to the informational text "Perfectly Imperfect" by Donna Bozzone. Make sure to adjust and personalize them as needed to reflect your understanding and insights about the text.


Paragraph 1: Analysis of Text Structure
In "Perfectly Imperfect," the author employs a cause-and-effect text structure to present the information. I identified this structure by noting how the author systematically outlines various challenges individuals face in accepting imperfections and pairs each challenge with its consequences. For example, when the author discusses societal pressures to conform to unrealistic standards, they explain the resulting feelings of inadequacy experienced by many people. This choice of structure helps me as a reader by clearly outlining the implications of each issue discussed, making it easier to understand the complex relationship between societal expectations and personal acceptance of flaws.

Paragraph 2: Author’s Purpose and Point of View
Donna Bozzone's purpose in "Perfectly Imperfect" is to encourage readers to embrace their imperfections and promote self-acceptance. I determined the author’s point of view through the use of inclusive language and personal anecdotes that resonate with the audience's experiences. Bozzone often places herself in the narrative by sharing her own struggles, which helps establish a connection with the reader and reinforces her message. Understanding the author’s purpose and point of view allows me to appreciate the motivational aspects of the text, ultimately leading to a deeper understanding of the importance of loving oneself despite one’s flaws.

Paragraph 3: Distinguishing Positions
In "Perfectly Imperfect," the author distinguishes her position on self-acceptance from traditional views that often prioritize perfection and success. While other positions suggest that achieving flawlessness leads to happiness, Bozzone argues that acceptance of one’s imperfections fosters genuine well-being. For instance, she cites research highlighting the detrimental effects of perfectionism on mental health, contrasting it with the benefits of embracing one's true self. Thinking about these different positions broadened my perspective, illustrating that societal norms can often be misleading and that a healthier approach to life may lie in accepting our human flaws rather than striving for an unattainable ideal.


Feel free to modify these paragraphs based on your personal voice and specific insights that arise from your reading of the text!