For my english class we have to write a one page essay about What is the most significant gift that we wish to give ourself this semester. Here's what I have so far I was wondering if you had any other ideas on what I could add to it because it needs to be longer and see if my grammar is good.

The most significant gift that I wish to give myself this semester would be an A in the class. I'm very determined to put everything that I have into every assignment and motivate myself to never settle for less. Working towards earning an A in the class will take a positive attitude and being able to stay focused when I feel like quiting. I'm willing to work for what I want and not let the grade be given to me for doing nothing. Ever since high school and my first English college class I have received nothing lower than an A-. This is my motivation to continue to receive those type of grades and to make me feel better about myself as a person. Knowing that I'm capable of achieving anything as long as I put my mind to it is the best feeling in the world.

The most significant gift that I wish to give myself this semester would be an A in the class.<~~in what class? even if you think it's obvious, you need to name it. I'm very determined to put everything that I have into every assignment and motivate myself to never settle for less. Working towards earning an A in the class will take a positive attitude and being able to stay focused when I feel like quiting.<~~sp?? I'm willing to work for what I want and not let the grade be given to me for doing nothing. Ever since high school and my first college English class<~~add comma I have received nothing lower than an A-. This is my motivation to continue to receive those type of grades and to make me feel better about myself as a person. Knowing that I'm capable of achieving anything as long as I put my mind to it is the best feeling in the world.

What you have written is very general and repetitive. Your paper would be much better if you can give some specific examples of things you have done well in the past and give specific reasons why you believe you can do at least that well or even better now.

Try again.

An A is the most significant gift you can give yourself? Significant gifts are remembered for a long time.

Instead of an A, wish for something that will last, such as skill at writing, a gift of theme crafting, and use of word power. Instead of reading something great and thinking you wish you could write like that, you can say "I can write like that." That is a significant gift.
Or you can wish forless: Vocabulary range and power, or the gift of organization, or...
Anyway, a lot of people can get A's in English, but few of them are skilled writers.
Someone else will probably comment on the above, someone more qualified than I. I wish I could comment as thoughtfully as they can.

Your essay is off to a great start! Here are a few suggestions to help you expand on your ideas and improve your grammar:

1. Add specific examples and details: Instead of simply stating that you are determined to put everything into every assignment, provide examples of how you plan to achieve this. For instance, you could mention specific study strategies or time management techniques that you will use to stay organized and focused.

2. Explain the importance of an A grade: In addition to wanting to feel better about yourself, discuss why earning an A in the class is important to you. Maybe it will contribute to your overall GPA, help you qualify for certain scholarships or programs, or give you a sense of accomplishment.

3. Elaborate on your motivation: You mention that you have always strived for high grades in English classes, but consider explaining what drives you to pursue excellence in this subject. Is it a particular passion for writing or literature? Are there specific career goals that rely on strong English skills? Sharing these motivations will make your essay more personal and compelling.

4. Use more varied sentence structures: While your grammar is generally good, try incorporating a mix of sentence types to make your essay more diverse and engaging. This can involve using complex sentences, compound sentences, and adding transition words or phrases to create flow and coherence.

5. Provide a conclusion: Wrap up your essay by summarizing your main points and reaffirming your commitment to giving yourself the gift of an A. End with a strong statement or reflection that leaves a lasting impression on the reader.

Remember to proofread your essay carefully to catch any spelling or punctuation errors. Good luck with your writing!