Chinese Piano Works: Culture Through Colorful Harmonies
Writing Assignment #5: Observation Essay
We live in the visual, technological culture and oftentimes privilege sight over any other sense. Because of this, we often fail to fully describe or even experience our own world. In this essay, you will write at least 2 full pages, describing an object, place, or event, related to your ‘zine topic. Your essay will be more than just observation, though; you will need to make meaning from your observations.
Be curious. Be imaginative. Question and interpret. What is out there in the world, and what can it teach us?
You should use both objective and subjective details. In order to provide an objective description, you will need to use your senses to report on that which you are observing. You will use subjective description when you report your emotional responses to the object of observation. Once you have decided on what you will observe, begin observing as soon as possible. Your observation should last at least 30-60 minutes. You might observe non-stop for 30-60 minutes, or you might divide your time. Be creative as you observe; move around. Participate (if appropriate). At the same time though, you need to be able to take notes—good notes. Record everything you possibly can—sights, sounds, smells, dress, gestures, dialogue that you hear, etc.
You should also take pictures during your observation to include in your ‘zine.
Here's what I'll be looking for as I grade your paper:
• Detailed descriptions: Can I see what you see? Do you use the five senses (sensory details)
to describe the subject? Do you include 1-3 photographs? If appropriate, do you move beyond visual details to include action and dialogue?
• Organization: You have to show me that you thought about the organization of the story.
This means you decided upon and pursued a particular way of organizing your essay. This might be best done chronologically or by theme.
• Significance: Does your essay move beyond a literal description of your subject to include its relationship to the topic of your ‘zine?
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