Phil Druker/Department of English/ University of Idaho

Phil Druker/English 404/504

TRAVEL WRITING: Assignment 2

Short article/destination piece for a magazine or newspaper (800-1100 words): 100 pts.

Goal:
Your objective is to write a short (800-1100 word) destination piece.  Take us (people who have never been to the place) somewhere and help us decide if we want to go there after reading your piece. This article needs to be based on the query letter/email you send (and I approve).

The Assignment:

1.      Pick a place.

2.      To make your piece work, consider these points:

a.       Make your description purposeful/informative.

--develop a tone

--focus on an angle

--react to the place

b. Use details.

c. Use the senses (as appropriate).

e. Put people in the place as appropriate.

            --Use narration.

            --Use characterization.

   f. Consider organization:

--space

--time (chronology)

--topic

--personal or psychological perspective

G. Consider adding a "how to" / "contact info" sidebar at the end.

Hints:

1.      Your article needs to have a clear purpose. Be sure to make a point. Be sure you find the CENTER of your piece-- give this a focus.

2.      Use narration and characterization to move the piece. 

3.      Avoid sanitizing, sentimentalizing, or exaggerating.

4.      Use metaphor and imagery carefully, sparingly.

5.      Avoid clichés.

6.      Remember to SHOW rather than Tell.

7.  Don’t just tell a story.  Provide information and some researched fact (as you promised with your query).

8. Use “I” and “you.”  Don’t use “one” or passive.

1)      Due dates: see syllabus

Query email _____________

Workshop  _______  

Final Draft _________________

Criteria: Assignment 2

Content:

1.      Main point clear

2.      Details

a.       Show (rather than tell)

b.      Useful

c.       Correct

d.      Deals with “the other” as appropriate

3.      Narration

a.       Clear

b.      Effectively moves details

4.      Characterization—not covered before this assignment.

a.       Clear

b.      Effectively moves details

5.      Conclusion works

Organization

1.      Main point emphasized

2.      Paragraphs work 

Sentence style:

1.      Correct           

2.      Clear

3.      Concise

Audience

1.      Will the audience find this useful?

2.      Opening line engaging

3.      Closing line brings closure.