Before you start writing a reflective essay, try having a conversation with your classmates about a common experience. Form small groups, and list the subjects each of you is considering writing about. Choose one that most people in the group can relate to (such as an embarrassing moment, a fight with a friend, or the first day of class). Take turns sharing your memories about the experience while the other members of the group listen, respond, and ask questions. Your purpose is to connect with the other members of your group, so try to present an honest, personal view of the event.

When you are finished, take a few minutes to reflect on the exercise. What did you learn about your audience? Did you have to adapt what you said based on their interest level or on those parts of your story they didn’t understand? What did you discover about what you have in common and what you do not?