Critical Thinking Questions unit 8 (creative writing)

1-There is a certain finesse that you must have when critiquing another’s work. While it is good to give honest feedback, you want to make sure that you keep their feelings in mind. Re-write the following critiques into more positive and productive critical thoughts.

A-The language is choppy and has no flow.
B-Every single metaphor is cheesy.
C-This is exactly the same as an episode of Dawson’s Creek.
D-You have no theme.
E-I don’t get it–the plot makes zero sense.

2-The unit offers an extensive list of different things that writers can accomplish and possible avenues for work. Which of these do you feel would be the most difficult as a writer and why? Which do you feel would be the most fulfilling and why? Is there one profession in particular that might be both fulfilling and difficult?

3-Almost all writers, regardless of their profession or genre, partake in creating a rough draft. What is the purpose of a rough draft for writers? Can you think of a profession outside of writing that uses the equivalent of a rough draft? Please explain your answer and how or why this profession uses the ‘equivalent of a writer’s rough draft.’


4-Imagine that a peer or an editor gave you especially harsh and negative feedback on a piece of your writing. You were so affected by this critique that you considered throwing your entire piece out. You decide to compose a short note to the peer/editor that critiqued your work. What might you say to help guide them in terms of writing future critiques? You want to make sure that they do not insult another writer the same way that they insulted you, and you want to offer them some tips for proper critiquing.


5-When critiquing your own work, it is important to pay attention to realism. Characters should be believable in their intentions and motivations. If they seem confused or nonsensical, the reader becomes frustrated and may possibly stop caring. For example, if an off-duty cop isn’t paying attention to his surroundings, that feels unlikely or unrealistic. Come up with two examples of characters/situations that may be unrealistic or unbelievable. Write at least one sentence explaining your example.