Tattoo You - Instruction Packet

Estimados Estudiantes,

My name is Jay Lewenstein, and this is your first assignment.  Here, I provide you with a nice warm-up for this semester.  This week, we are writing about TATTOOS.  You are to turn in a 300-500 word critical-thinking, reflection piece.  It will be worth 350 points.  It will be due in seven days.

Here are our goals for our tattoo writing:

1. We sharpen our observation skills
2. We develop a sense of purpose in our writing.
3. We learn how rhetoric will help us in our analysis.
4. We develop an understanding for process and structure.
5. We use electronic equipments for drafting, reviewing, revising, editing and sharing texts.

At the end of this assignment you will be responsible for the following:

1. Complete tattoo folder with all requested materials
2. Final, final draft – edited, revised, reviewed and corrected
3. Blackboard Discussion Board submission
4. Tattoo post on student blog

STEP ONE: For the next class, bring in three tattoo images (PRINTED OUT) to share and analyze – 30 points

In making your selection, think about what you know about Tattoos.  It could be a person you know.  It can be a design.  It can be the process of selecting a tattoo.  Do you have a friend or relative with a special tattoo?  Do you have a camera phone? This semester we will touch upon more subjective methods of research.  You decide.

Jay’s Tip: I may not have told you this yet, but I live in Mexicali.  If I took a one-mile walk from my house, I bet you I could find 8-9 tattoo parlors.  I could write about the selection process, maybe. 

STEP TWO: Write a one-page freewrite (TYPED) – 30 points

Here are some suggestions for writing:

1. Think about the person who wears the tattoo:
2. What were the motivations for getting the tattoo?
3. How does this tattoo connect with this person’s life?

• Does the tattoo change the perception of this person?

For example: I’m thinking of Kobe Bryant.  Look at my example in Jay’s Writing Samples.  Why does a multi-millionaire feel it’s important to look “street.”  I’m going to explain cause and effect.  In fact, I’m going to disagree with Kobe’s rational.

1. Think about a tattoo with textual message.
2. Why are the words so important?
3. Is there something about the style of the letters?

• Is there special meaning in the language used?

For example:  See Pilar Carrazco’s tattoo in Jay’s Writing Samples.  Pilar chose a phrase from a novel she had read that had deep meaning to her.  She  was able to explain the significance of the phrase in the novel. Then, she explained how she applies these words in her own life.

1. Think about visual analysis – Can you break down and provide a detailed description of the design.
2. What visual element grabs your attention first. What seems to be most important?
3. Discuss the basic elements of your image: picture, captions, description, colors, shapes.

iii. What does the wearer of this tattoo want?  What’s the message?

iiii. Who is the intended audience?

For example: See Teresa Mendoza’s tattoo on Jay’s Writing Samples.  Teresa shared a young women’s tattoo of Jesus Malverde imprinted on the right shoulder.  She explained where the image comes from.  Then, she explained the significance of the image to her people in Sinaloa. ‘

1. Think about your reaction. What does the tattoo mean to you?
2. Explain the reasons you chose to write about this tattoo.
3. Explain your feelings/thoughts that relate to the idea of the tattoo.

• Explain why or why not you would get a tattoo like this one

Jay’s Tip:   See Jay’s “Never Forget” Tattoo in Jay’s Writing Samples.)   I’m not sure if I expressed this clearly the first time, but I  often think Tattoos are a form of selfish expression.  Not in this case.   

Step Three – The Outline – 30 Points.

1. Topic sentence – What is your meaningful idea? Why is it important?
2. Explanation – Think cause and effect. Explain the reasons why a person would choose the tattoo you have selected.  What is the desired effect.
3. Illustration – Paint a picture for your reader: colors, size, position, style.
4. Conclusion – How do you feel about it? Would you want to do something similar?

Step Four – First Draft – 30 Points

1. Bring draft to class – at least 300 words. Follow the model provided for you at the end of this instructional packet – “Deep Kobe”
2. Peer Review – Exchange papers with classmate
3. Add descriptive language: specific details, metphors, similes. Go from abstract to concrete.

Step Five – Review with Writing Tutor – 30 points

Ask your tutor the following questions:                                               

1. Does my topic sentence make sense?
2. Do I provide adequate support.
3. Is my writing coherent. Do the ideas fit together
4. Is my writing unified? Am I focused on a singular idea?
5. Have tutor initial your folder.

Step Six – Submission of Final Draft – 150 points

1. Hand in folder with all requested materials (this goes into your portfolio)
2. Submit digital version on blackboard discussion board.
3. Combine your writing with your image on powerpoint slide to create blog post.

Jay’s Appendix - Sample Tattoo Paragraph - Step-by-Step:

Try this strategy to help you analyze your tattoo.  Break up your writing into parts. Fill up each box with the suggested material.  Then join the boxes at the end. 

Step One - The Topic Sentence (one sentence)

Please begin every paragraph with a topic sentence.   You need to present a  meaningful idea to your readers. Don’t hesitate to use a transitional expression for emphasis.

Step Two -  Develop your idea (2-3 sentences) 

Take one or two sentences to explain and clarify your topic sentence.  Here you have the chance to show off your critical thinking skills. Add your explanation directly to your topic sentence. (Hint: think cause and effect.  Reasons?  Consequences? 

Step Three –  Illustration

Here keep it brief.  Can you identify and describe something from your tattoo experience that supports your topic sentence?   Use specific details.                                                            

Step Four : Conclusion (2-3 sentences)

Tie your comparison support together with an emphatic statement.

Here is the way it looks in paragraph form:

 Often people look to tattoos as a way to boost their street cred(ibility). In today’s crazy, fast-paced modern world, people don’t have the time to know who you are or what you are about. If you don’t take the time to distinguish yourself, life just might pass you by. That’s why many people opt for tattoos to establish themselves in a visual way. They use their tattoos to announce their arrival and make a statement. . Bikers, gangstahs, and porn stars have their own reasons for sending a message with their tattoos. They use their tattoos to remind people who they are. However, even people who seem to have everything find themselves with the same need. Kobe Bryant, for example, has inked up his entire right arm. He has a huge crown along his bulging bicep. Clearly, this guy is a competitor. He wants to show opponents and fans his toughness. He’s makes millions of dollars and lives in a giant mansion, but his tattoos are a reminder of the streets he came from. I’m not sure I understand why Kobe Bryant has to prove his toughness to anybody, but I empathize with peoplewho want to assert themselves.   When people don’t have the means or opportunity express themselves, often their tattoos will attract the attention they want or need.

All right!  If you have reached this point, CONGRATULATIONS!  You are well on your way to achieving success in college level writing.  This assignment will provide you with a great opportunity to showcase your critical thinking skills.  Let’s put this one in your portfolio.  I can’t wait for the next assignment.

This is going to be great.  You will see.

Paz,

JL