Think Again: Where and When?

Observing Moments – Step 4

In this final activity, add basic information that’s missing in the first draft of your capsule description.

Think about the questions a reader you don’t know would ask: Where is this place? In what geographic region or country is it located? When were the observations made? Then revise your capsule description to include these orienting details.

The real-world basics may seem unnecessary for evoking a moment, but there’s a big difference between observing a pond in Massachusetts and one in Georgia – or a garden in the summer or winter. Specificity of place names and timing, often written off as the realm of news reporting, is what breathes life into personal stories. If you haven’t already, you can also position your “I” as the observer.

Be sure to include your reflections and the revision in your Process Notebook.

Suggested Time for Prompts: 15 minutes

Revision: 20 minutes or more

Read your capsule description aloud, then reflect on what’s missing. Respond to at least one of the prompts below and revise your description to add key details.

Q. Am I finished with the lesson now?

Evaluate your writing goals.

When you’ve completed “Think Again,” you’re done with the four main steps. Bravo! Spend more time on the optional activities, if you wish, but you’re almost there.

The only thing left to do is to your self-evaluation. Ask yourself about the progress made on your goals. Once you’ve responded, you’re finished with the lesson.