Has the writer included a main idea statement that clearly states the subject and the most important thing about that subject?
What was the writer's point of view during the observation?
Encourage the writer to add details that explain the circumstances of the observation. What time of day was it? Where did the observation take place?
What is the writer's attitude throughout the paper? Is it objective?
An observation should include what the writer witnessed. The writer shouldn't offer his or her opinions. If you find the author has included opinions, suggest replacing them with facts.
What sensory details and facts made you feel that you were experiencing what the writer experienced? What words did the writer use that improved the description?
Encourage the writer to use accurate language. Tell the writer what you need to know to feel like you witnessed the same thing he or she described.
What conclusion did you reach about the writer's subject?
Summarize the observation by writing your conclusion about the writer's subject. What image did all of the description create? Encourage the writer to emphasize what he or she wants you to remember most about the observation.
What do you like about the paper? What works well?
It's important to tell the writer what he or she has done well. It helps the writer build on his or her strengths.
