'When you finish with this section, you will write an observational essay. This essay will be a description of a person, place, or thing you can observe. You'll write using sensory details and perhaps a bit of narrative. Some key elements will be sharp, clear sensory details and crisp, fresh writing. Observe a subject closely. Make a chart listing sensory details as you can.'

I'm not sure what I should write about..any good ideas/suggestions?

Thanks
-MC

How about your yard? Or a nearby park? Or a grocery store?

Sit and observe for several minutes, jotting notes about what you see, hear, smell, and touch. Be specific. It would help if you chose a place you can visit again a day or two later.

OK, I'll choose my yard

Thanks
-MC

Certainly! Coming up with a subject for your observational essay can be a fun and creative process. Here's how you can generate some ideas:

1. Choose a familiar place: Consider observing a location that you visit often, such as a park, a local café, or your own backyard. Familiarity can provide you with a deeper understanding of the subject matter.

2. Explore natural surroundings: Go outside and observe the natural world around you. It could be anything from a sunset, a flower in bloom, or even an insect in action. Nature can offer rich sensory experiences that can inspire your writing.

3. Capture human interaction: Observe people in different settings, such as a busy street, a coffee shop, or a sporting event. Pay attention to their behaviors, mannerisms, and interactions. This can provide you with interesting insights into human nature.

4. Choose an object with significance: Select an object that holds personal meaning to you. It could be a sentimental item, a treasured possession, or an everyday object that you find intriguing. Exploring the details of such an object can unlock a unique perspective.

5. Visit a cultural or historical site: Consider going to a museum, an art gallery, or a historical landmark. Observe the architecture, artifacts, or artworks present, and capture the essence of the place through your descriptive writing.

Once you have some potential ideas, create a chart with sensory details for each subject. Think about what you can see, hear, smell, taste, and touch related to each subject. This chart will help you weigh the potential of each idea and identify the one that resonates most with you.

Remember, the key to picking a subject is finding something that genuinely interests you and sparks your curiosity. Happy writing!