5.3.2 - Explicit Guidelines for Giving Feedback
Enroll to start learning
Youβve not yet enrolled in this course. Please enroll for free to listen to audio lessons, classroom podcasts and take practice test.
Interactive Audio Lesson
Listen to a student-teacher conversation explaining the topic in a relatable way.
The Importance of Feedback
π Unlock Audio Lesson
Sign up and enroll to listen to this audio lesson
Today, we'll discuss the importance of feedback in creative writing. Why do you think feedback might be important?
I think it helps us improve our writing.
Absolutely! Feedback can provide new perspectives that help elevate our work. Remember, constructive feedback should empower and motivate.
What if someone gives just negative feedback?
That's where we have to use the 'Feedback Sandwich' method! Who remembers what that is?
Start with something positive, then suggest improvements and finish with another positive comment?
Exactly! Itβs about framing criticism in a way that feels supportive rather than discouraging.
Could we practice that in pairs today?
Yes, we'll pair up soon after today's discussion. Let's summarize: Feedback is crucial for improvement, and the 'Feedback Sandwich' helps maintain a positive environment.
Constructive Feedback Techniques
π Unlock Audio Lesson
Sign up and enroll to listen to this audio lesson
Next, let's delve into how to give feedback effectively. Who can tell me what the first step is?
Point out what the writer did well?
Right! Always start with strengths. It builds confidence. What should we keep in mind when giving constructive suggestions?
They should be specific and actionable?
Exactly! Use phrases like, 'I wonder if...' to frame suggestions. This approach feels less direct and more encouraging. Can anyone give an example of a phrase we might use?
Maybe something like, 'I found the ending surprising; perhaps you could explore that a bit more?'
Great example! Now, remember, we must also separate the work from the writer. Why is that important?
So that no one feels attacked personally?
Yes! Let's recap: Start with positives, provide specific, actionable feedback, and focus on the work.
Receiving Feedback Positively
π Unlock Audio Lesson
Sign up and enroll to listen to this audio lesson
Now that we've covered how to give feedback, let's discuss receiving it. What should you do when someone is giving you feedback?
Listen carefully and try not to get defensive?
Exactly! Active listening is key. If you donβt understand something, what should you do?
Ask clarifying questions!
Yes! And how about showing appreciation for the feedback?
You can say thank you to the person for their time.
Perfect! Lastly, remember to take notes. What can you do with the feedback after receiving it?
Reflect on it and decide what fits with my vision.
Right again! So, our key points for receiving feedback: listen actively, ask questions, express gratitude, and reflect thoughtfully.
Creating a Culture of Trust
π Unlock Audio Lesson
Sign up and enroll to listen to this audio lesson
Letβs focus on creating a supportive environment for feedback. Why is this important?
So everyone feels safe to share their writing.
Exactly! A culture of trust fosters honesty and openness. How could we establish this in our classroom?
Maybe through team-building activities?
Great idea! Activities can help strengthen our connections. What else can we do?
We can agree on rules for respectful feedback.
That is crucial! Having clear guidelines ensures respect. Let's sum up: A supportive environment requires trust, team activities, and clear rules.
Introduction & Overview
Read summaries of the section's main ideas at different levels of detail.
Quick Overview
Standard
The section presents explicit guidelines for giving feedback effectively, highlighting the importance of starting with strengths, providing specific suggestions for improvement, and separating the work from the individual. It also discusses how to foster a collaborative environment and develop skills for receiving feedback positively.
Detailed
Explicit Guidelines for Giving Feedback
This section addresses the essential skill of giving and receiving feedback within creative writing classes. It starts with establishing a supportive environment where students feel safe sharing their work and vulnerabilities. The 'Feedback Sandwich' approach is introduced as a foundational method for providing constructive feedback. This involves starting with positive comments about strengths, suggesting actionable improvements in a respectful manner, and focusing feedback on the work rather than the individual. Students are encouraged to be specific and clear to help peers understand the feedback thoroughly.
Guidelines for receiving feedback are also presented, which include active listening, asking clarifying questions, and expressing gratitude for the feedback received. Structured peer critique workshops are suggested, including small group rotations and focused feedback forms to enhance constructive dialogue. Overall, the emphasis is on creating a culture of trust and continuous improvement, where students learn to appreciate the collaborative nature of the feedback process.
Audio Book
Dive deep into the subject with an immersive audiobook experience.
Creating a Supportive Environment
Chapter 1 of 4
π Unlock Audio Chapter
Sign up and enroll to access the full audio experience
Chapter Content
Creating a Culture of Trust: Establish a safe and supportive classroom environment where students feel comfortable sharing their vulnerabilities and receiving honest feedback without judgment.
Detailed Explanation
This chunk emphasizes the importance of having a supportive atmosphere in the classroom. When students feel safe and respected, they are more likely to express themselves and accept feedback on their work. This environment encourages open communication where students can share their thoughts and feelings without fear of negative consequences.
Examples & Analogies
Imagine a sports team where the coach encourages players to express their ideas and mistakes openly. This supportive environment allows players to improve and feel valued, similar to how a classroom can thrive when students feel safe sharing their writing.
The Feedback Sandwich
Chapter 2 of 4
π Unlock Audio Chapter
Sign up and enroll to access the full audio experience
Chapter Content
Explicit Guidelines for Giving Feedback (The 'Feedback Sandwich' and Beyond):
- Start with Strengths: Begin by pointing out what the writer did well, being specific (e.g., "I really enjoyed how you described the old house; I could vividly picture it").
- Offer Specific Suggestions for Improvement: Frame criticism as actionable advice. Use "I wonder if..." or "Perhaps you could try..." instead of "You should..." (e.g., "I found the beginning a little slow; I wonder if starting with the character in action would grab the reader faster?").
- Focus on the Writing, Not the Writer: Separate the creative piece from the person who wrote it. Avoid personal attacks or judgments.
- Be Respectful and Empathetic: Remember the effort the writer put in.
- Be Concise and Clear: Avoid vague comments.
- Use the Learning Objectives: Refer back to the module's objectives as a framework for feedback (e.g., "Your characters are compelling, but I'm not clear on their primary motivation").
Detailed Explanation
The 'Feedback Sandwich' is a structured way to give feedback that starts with positive comments, followed by constructive criticism, and ends with another positive note. This method helps to ensure that students feel appreciated for their efforts while still receiving guidance on how to improve. Itβs important to focus on specific aspects of their writing, maintain a positive and supportive tone, and connect feedback to the learning objectives.
Examples & Analogies
Think of a teacher who starts her feedback by saying, 'You have such a creative idea in your story, and I loved the way you described the setting. However, I think adding more character actions could enhance the plot. Overall, great work, and I can't wait to see how you develop it further!' This approach helps the student feel valued while clearly pointing out areas for improvement.
Respectful and Empathetic Feedback
Chapter 3 of 4
π Unlock Audio Chapter
Sign up and enroll to access the full audio experience
Chapter Content
Be Respectful and Empathetic: Remember the effort the writer put in.
Detailed Explanation
This chunk highlights the need for empathy when giving feedback. Acknowledging the effort that a writer has invested in their work is essential because it fosters respect and understanding. When students realize that their peers value their hard work, they are more likely to embrace the feedback and use it constructively to enhance their writing.
Examples & Analogies
Imagine a student presenting a project they worked hard on. If a classmate points out the positives first and then offers suggestions diplomatically, the student will be more receptive than if they received harsh criticism right away. This compassion turns feedback into a learning opportunity rather than a discouraging experience.
Active Listening and Note-taking
Chapter 4 of 4
π Unlock Audio Chapter
Sign up and enroll to access the full audio experience
Chapter Content
Guidelines for Effectively Receiving Feedback:
- Listen Actively and Non-Defensively: The goal is learning, not arguing.
- Ask Clarifying Questions: "Could you give me an example of what you mean?" or "What part specifically felt unclear?"
- Take Notes: Jot down key suggestions.
- Consider All Feedback, But Don't Adopt All Feedback: Ultimately, the writer has autonomy over their work. Decide which suggestions align with their vision.
- Express Gratitude: Thank peers for their time and effort.
Detailed Explanation
Receiving feedback respectfully involves being open to suggestions and asking questions to ensure clarity. Itβs essential for students to actively listen without becoming defensive, as the purpose of feedback is to foster improvement. Taking notes allows them to remember specific points to work on later. While itβs important to consider all feedback, writers should also retain autonomy over their work and only adopt helpful suggestions.
Examples & Analogies
Consider a student who receives feedback on an art project. By listening carefully, asking for specific examples of improvements, and then making notes, they can enhance their work without feeling overwhelmed. Itβs like cooking: if someone gives you feedback on your dish, listening carefully can help you understand the flavors better and how to adjust them without altering your style.
Key Concepts
-
Feedback Sandwich: A technique for providing feedback that combines positives with constructive criticism.
-
Constructive Feedback: Specific and helpful commentary aimed at improving a piece of work without negativity.
-
Trust Culture: An atmosphere that promotes safety and honesty in feedback exchanges.
-
Active Listening: The practice of fully engaging with the speaker's message during feedback.
Examples & Applications
Using the Feedback Sandwich method, a student might say: 'I loved how you described the character's emotions (positive), but I felt the plot was a bit rushed (constructive criticism). To improve, maybe slow down the climax for more impact (suggestion). Keep up the great work!' (another positive).
An example of receiving feedback could involve a student taking notes during a peer's commentary, asking clarifying questions like, 'Could you elaborate on what part felt rushed?,' and then thanking them for their insights.
Memory Aids
Interactive tools to help you remember key concepts
Rhymes
To give good feedback, letβs not forget, Start with strengths and end with a pet! Suggest just one thing to improve the style, That way your critique will go a long mile!
Stories
Once in a classroom, a turtle and a rabbit decided to share their stories. The turtle went first, and the rabbit pointed out the great pacing but suggested it could use more adventure. The turtle thanked him and returned the favor, highlighting the rabbit's creativity while suggesting not to rush. They both improved, sharing their gifts!
Memory Tools
P-S-S: Positive-Strengths, Suggestion, Strengths - remember to Start with Strengths!
Acronyms
R-E-S-P-E-C-T
Remember
Empathize
Speak Positively
Encourage
Clarify
Thank - the foundation of good feedback.
Flash Cards
Glossary
- Feedback Sandwich
A method of giving feedback that starts and ends with positive comments while sandwiching constructive criticism in between.
- Constructive Feedback
Helpful criticism that aims to improve the work, expressed in a respectful and supportive manner.
- Active Listening
Fully focusing on the speaker, understanding their message, responding thoughtfully, and remembering key points.
- Peer Critique Workshop
A structured session where students review each other's work to provide feedback.
- Trust Culture
An environment that encourages openness and honesty where individuals feel safe to express their ideas.
Reference links
Supplementary resources to enhance your learning experience.