Study Notes on Writing a Critique Paper

WRITING A CRITIQUE PAPER

Essential Questions

• How to approach others' work?
• Important aspects of artwork and events to consider in critiques.

Approaching a Work

• Aim to improve the writer's work or guide readers.
• Be mindful while reading the work.

Writing an Effective Critique

• Be genuine and balanced.
• Avoid excessive harshness or niceness; express hard truths constructively.
• Encourage strengths and motivate authors to improve.

Dos and Don'ts in Writing a Critique

Do:

• Read multiple times.
• Understand author’s goals.
• Provide specific feedback with examples.

Don't:

• Impose personal aesthetics or rewrite.
• Discourage authors with vague feedback.
• Avoid providing genuine praise when due.

Genre and Intended Audience

• Recognize the work's genre and intended audience to critique effectively.

Critiquing Works of Art

Description:

• Summarize the work of art, including title, creator, date, medium, colors, shapes, etc.

Analysis:

• Evaluate elements and their connections, addressing principles of art like balance, contrast, emphasis, and unity.

Interpretation:

• Consider the message or emotions the artwork conveys.

Judgment:

• Express overall opinions, determining success, originality, and recommendations.

Critiquing an Event or Program

Brainstorming:

• List evaluation aspects before the event.

Description:

• Provide details about the event: title, organizers, date, purpose.

Evaluation:

• Assess aspects like effectiveness of speakers, comfort, and engagement.

Judgment:

• Conclude on overall success, enjoyment, future recommendations.