Write down what you observe. Make a prediction for what will happen in the next frame.
Make a prediction for what you believe will happen in the next frame.
Make a prediction for what will happen in the last frame.
From our observations & predictions, what does this suggest about the character?
Observations
People tend to casually notice things as they go through their normal routines without giving these observations a second thought. In stories, authors deliberately use these observations to move the story along. They appear as casual comments, but are meant to suggest something more.
What are “Observations”? Observations require the reader to infer or read between the lines. Observations reveal themselves through: Details about the setting Something happening around a character The way an atmosphere or setting is described by the narrator Connections, memories, or ideas that “pop” into a character’s head (reactions, thoughts, &/or emotions)
How are “Observations” formed? Thoughts & Feelings Sensory details to describe taste, touch, sight, smell, & sound Comparison to create an image (similes & metaphors) Strong, vivid verbs to describe actions
Example : That was Then, This is Now CRAFTEXAMPLE FROM MENTOR TEXT HOW IS IT DONE? (explain technique) WHY IS IT DONE? (Why does the author use the craft? Why is it important to the story? What does it show?) ObservationsPg. 33 “That kid had been hurt bad. He had bandages around his head and across one eye, both arms in slings, and stiches in his lower lip” The author uses visual images, such as “bandages around head”, “across one eye”, “arms in slings”, “stitches” to show the extent of the kid’s beating. The author uses observations to help the reader understand the time period and the racial tension that was felt everyday.
Why do we pay attention to “Observations”? Observations… Leave clues that may lead to a conflict Signal a shift in the story Suggest how a character feels Suggest a character’s motives Hint towards major themes
Bryon makes several observations about the world and the people around him. Several observations deal with racial ideas and morals (right vs. wrong). Task With your partner or individually, identify 1 example of observation that our characters have made so far and complete a row in your Craft Study Chart Then on your own identify another example of observation and complete the second row of your Craft Study Chart.