EApp

Date: December 04, 2024

Time: 9 pm
Facilitator: rie again

LITERARY CRITICISM

Literary criticism is the analysis, interpretation, and evaluation of authors and their works of
literature, which can include novels, short stories, essays, plays, and poetry.

Popular literary criticism is written for the general public. Some reviews for the general public,
such as those found in The New Yorker or The New York Times Book Review may offer insightful
analysis and discussion.

Introductory analysis for students introduces literary works, authors, and critical perspectives,
without presenting original criticism. Look for Topic & Overviews in the database Gale’s Literature
Criticism Online or historical, cultural, and biographical overviews.

Scholarly literary criticism is generally found in scholarly literary journals, such as Critique or
The Journal of Ethnic Fiction, as well as in some books. Scholarly literary criticism presents original
and sophisticated analysis for an academic audience.

BROADER TYPES OF LITERARY CRITICISM APPROACHES

 Intrinsic Approaches
Intrinsic approaches in literary criticism look closely at the text itself, focusing on
aspects like its language, structure, style, and the literary devices the author uses. These
approaches aim to understand how these elements work together to create meaning.

 Extrinsic Approaches
Extrinsic approaches in literary criticism focus on the factors outside the text itself to
understand its meaning and significance. This means looking at things like the author ’ s life
experiences, the historical context in which the work was created, and the cultural or social
issues that might influence the writing.

APPROACHES IN LITERARY CRITICISM

Formalist Criticism
- is a literary approach that emphasizes the analysis of a text’ s form, structure, and
language.
Gender Criticism
- is a literary approach that examines how literature reflects, reinforces, or challenges gender
roles and identities.
Historical Criticism
- is a literary approach that examines a text within the context of its historical time period.
Reader-response Criticism
- is a literary approach that emphasizes the role of the reader in creating meaning from a
text.
Structuralism
- is a literary approach that emphasizes that meaning arises from the relationships and
differences between these components rather than from individual elements alone.
Media Criticism
- is an approach that analyzes and evaluates various forms of media.
Marxist Criticism
- is a literary approach that examines literature through the lens of class struggles, economic
power dynamics, and social inequality.

FORMALIST CRITICISM: AN IN-DEPTH ANALYSIS

This comprehensive exploration of Formalist Criticism delves into the foundations, principles, and
implications of this influential literary theory. Formalism, a critical approach that emerged in the
early 20th century, revolutionized the way scholars and readers engage with literature by shifting
focus from historical and biographical contexts to the intrinsic elements of the text itself. This
analysis will guide you through the key concepts, historical development, and practical applications
of Formalist Criticism, providing valuable insights for students and scholars of literature alike.

Formalist criticism is a literary approach that emphasizes the intrinsic features of a text, focusing
on its formal elements such as structure, language, and literary devices, rather than external
factors like authorial intent or historical context.

Historical Development
Emerging in the early 20th century, formalism gained prominence through Russian Formalism and
later influenced various schools of literary criticism, including New Criticism in the United States.

Key Figures
Viktor Shklovsky and Roman Jakobson were instrumental in developing formalist theory, introducing
concepts like defamiliarization and poetic function that continue to shape literary analysis today.

Key Principles of Formalist Criticism

Form and Structure

Formalists prioritize the analysis of a text's formal elements, including plot structure, narrative
techniques, and linguistic patterns, believing that these components are essential to understanding
the work's meaning and aesthetic value.

Literary Devices
The study of literary devices, such as metaphor, irony, and symbolism, is central to formalist
criticism. These elements are seen as tools that authors use to create meaning and evoke
emotional responses in readers.

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Textual Autonomy
Formalists advocate for the separation of the text from external factors, including the author's
biography and historical context. This approach emphasizes the work's inherent qualities and its
ability to generate meaning independently.

Literary Devices in Formalism

Imagery
Formalists analyze how vivid sensory details create mental pictures, enhancing the reader's
experience and conveying meaning beyond literal description.

Symbolism
The use of symbols to represent abstract ideas is studied for its ability to add layers of meaning and
complexity to a text.
Meter and Rhyme
In poetry, formalists examine how metrical patterns and rhyme schemes contribute to a poem's
overall effect and meaning, often revealing hidden structures and rhythms.
The Role of Language in Formalism
Linguistic Focus
Formalists emphasize the linguistic aspects of literature, analyzing how language functions within a
text to create meaning and aesthetic effects.
Structuralism vs. Formalism
While both approaches focus on internal textual elements, structuralism extends linguistic analysis
to broader cultural systems, whereas formalism remains centered on individual texts.
Saussurean Influence
Ferdinand de Saussure's concepts of langue and parole influenced formalist thinking, leading to a
greater understanding of how language systems shape literary expression.
Close Reading Techniques
Initial Reading
Begin with a careful, uninterrupted reading of the text to gain a general understanding and initial
impressions.
Annotation
Re-read the text, marking significant passages, recurring motifs, and noteworthy literary devices.
Make marginal notes to record observations and questions.
Analysis
Examine the annotated elements in detail, considering how they contribute to the text's overall
meaning and structure. Look for patterns, contradictions, and ambiguities.
Interpretation
Synthesize your observations to form a cohesive interpretation of the text, focusing on how its
formal elements work together to create meaning and effect.
Case Study 2: The Great Gatsby
Narrative Structure

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Fitzgerald's use of Nick Carraway as a first-person narrator creates a layered perspective, allowing
for both intimate involvement and critical distance from the events described.
Symbolism
The green light, the eyes of Dr. T.J. Eckleburg, and the Valley of Ashes serve as powerful symbols
that reinforce themes of aspiration, disillusionment, and moral decay.
Imagery
Vivid descriptions of lavish parties and luxurious settings contrast sharply with moments of violence
and emptiness, mirroring the novel's exploration of the American Dream's promise and failure.
Limitations of Formalist Criticism
Context Blindness
By focusing solely on the text, formalism may overlook important historical, cultural, and
biographical contexts that can enrich interpretation.
Overemphasis on Form
The intense focus on formal elements can sometimes lead to neglecting the content and broader
themes of a work.
Potential Misinterpretation
Without considering external factors, there's a risk of misinterpreting or overlooking significant
aspects of a text's meaning and cultural significance.

UNDERSTANDING HISTORICAL CRITICISM IN LITERATURE

Definition:
 Historical Criticism is an approach to understanding literature by considering the historical
context in which a work was written.
Key Idea:
 The text is analyzed with an emphasis on the time period, events, and social conditions of
the author's era.
Roots:
 Emerged in the 19th century with scholars like Giambattista Vico and Matthias Claudius.
 Influenced by the historical materialism of Karl Marx and hermeneutics of Wilhelm Dilthey.
Key figures:
 Leopold von Ranke (Historian, emphasized primary sources)
 New Historicism (A modern extension of Historical Criticism led by Stephen Greenblatt)
Key Concepts of Historical Criticism
 Historical Context:
Understanding the social, political, and economic circumstances surrounding the text’s creation.
 Author's Biography:
Considering the life and personal experiences of the author as they inform the text.
 Cultural Movements:
Literature as a product of the movements (e.g., Romanticism, Enlightenment, etc.).
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Methodology of Historical Criticism
 Examine the Time Period:
Study the dominant ideologies, class structures, and historical events when the work was written.
 Explore Author’s Perspective:
Understanding the author's life and worldview, and how that influences the text.
 Interpret the Text in Historical Context:
Analyze the language, themes, and issues addressed, in light of historical conditions.
Example of Historical Criticism
 Text Example: A Tale of Two Cities by Charles Dickens
 Context: Written during the French Revolution.
 Historical Relevance: Reflection on the upheaval, class struggles, and political changes.
 Analysis: Exploring how Dickens' portrayal of the Revolution is influenced by the social
climate of the 19th century.
Strengths and Weaknesses of Historical Criticism
 Strengths: In-depth Understanding of Context:
Provides a deep understanding of the historical influences on a text, making the work more
meaningful.
 Historical Accuracy:
Unveils how historical events and social conditions shape the narrative, characters, and themes.
 Connection Between Literature and History:
Helps connect literary works with the broader historical movements and shifts.
Weaknesses:
 Risk of Overemphasis on History:
May overshadow the literary qualities of the text, focusing too much on external factors.
 Limited Focus on Universal Themes:
Historical criticism sometimes neglects the timeless and universal themes that transcend
historical context.
 Subjectivity of Interpretation:
Different historians or critics may interpret the same historical events in varying ways, leading
to subjective readings.

Historical vs. Formalist Criticism:

Historical criticism looks at the time period, while formalism focuses on the text itself, regardless
of context.
Historical vs. Psychoanalytic Criticism:
Historical criticism focuses on societal influences, whereas psychoanalysis focuses on individual
psychology and unconscious motives.
Contemporary Relevance of Historical Criticism

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New Historicism:
A modern variation of historical criticism that emphasizes power dynamics and cultural
narratives.
Global Perspectives:
In today's interconnected world, historical criticism can also be applied to global literary works,
giving insights into different cultures' histories.
Evaluation of Historical Criticism Pros:
 Provides valuable context for understanding the text's meaning.
 Illuminates the role of literature in reflecting or challenging societal norms.
Cons:
 May limit the interpretation of a text to its historical moment, excluding other layers of
meaning.
 The heavy focus on history can sometimes overlook the aesthetic and literary elements of
the work.
In Summary:
Historical Criticism is a powerful tool for understanding literature through the lens of its historical
context, offering valuable insights into the interplay between literature and society. However, it has
its limitations, particularly in addressing universal themes or appreciating the intrinsic qualities of
the text.

GENDER CRITICISM
Gender Criticism is a framework in literary and cultural studies that examines how gender,
particularly femininity and masculinity, shapes the creation and interpretation of texts. It grew out
of feminist theory and now also explores broader issues of gender identity, power, and sexuality.
This approach analyzes how gender roles are represented in literature and how they influence both
the production of texts and their meaning.

THEORETICAL BACKGROUND
Gender Criticism, rooted in feminist theory, examines how women have been marginalized in
literature, media, and society. It has expanded to view gender as a spectrum, influenced by
scholars like Judith Butler, Michel Foucault, and Eve Kosofsky Sedgwick. Judith Butler's Gender
Trouble (1990) introduced the concept of gender performativity, arguing that gender is not inherent
but socially constructed through repeated actions and behaviors, challenging traditional views of
gender as biologically determined.
KEY CONCEPTS IN GENDER CRITICISM
GENDER AS PERFORMANCE
Gender Criticism focuses on the idea that gender is performative, meaning individuals express their
gender through actions and behaviors that align with societal expectations, as argued by Judith
Butler. Gender is something one "does, " not something one "is. " The theory also examines societal
norms surrounding masculinity and femininity. Hegemonic masculinity, introduced by R.W. Connell,
refers to the dominant ideal of masculinity, characterized by strength, dominance, and emotional
restraint. Femininity, in contrast, is traditionally linked to passivity, submission, and emotional
expressiveness. These gender norms are often reinforced in literature and media.
INTERSECTIONALITY

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Gender Criticism does not treat gender as an isolated category but considers how gender intersects
with other social categories such as race, class, sexuality, and ability. Kimberlé Crenshaw's concept
of intersectionality emphasizes that individuals experience multiple forms of oppression or privilege
simultaneously, depending on their position within these various systems of power.
QUEER THEORY
An important extension of Gender Criticism is queer theory, which interrogates the construction of
heterosexuality as the normative standard and explores non-normative sexual identities. Queer
theorists challenge binary concepts of gender and sexuality and advocate for a more inclusive
understanding of human diversity.
APPLICATIONS OF GENDER CRITICISM IN LITERATURE
Gender Criticism in literature examines how gender roles are represented in texts, focusing on how
characters either conform to or resist societal expectations. It often highlights the portrayal of
women and how their experiences relate to patriarchal power structures. For example, in Jane Eyre,
Gender Criticism might explore the protagonist's struggle for independence within the confines of
gender norms. Similarly, in works like those by Virginia Woolf, it reveals how gender influences
experiences of space, time, and identity within specific societal contexts.
CONCLUSION
Gender Criticism offers valuable insights into the ways in which literature and culture reflect and
shape social understandings of gender. By examining the performative aspects of gender, the
power dynamics between masculinity and femininity, and the intersection of gender with other
categories of identity, Gender Criticism helps uncover the complex ways in which gender operates
within both individual lives and societal structures. As a critical lens, it continues to evolve,
encompassing diverse perspectives such as queer theory and intersectionality, which further enrich
our understanding of gender in both historical and contemporary contexts.

READER-RESPONSE CRITICISM
A literary theory focusing on the reader’s experience and interpretation of a text.
The central focus of reader-response criticism is the interaction between the reader and the text.

CORE PRINCIPLES

Text and reader interaction: Meaning is not inherent in the text alone; it is shaped by the
reader’s engagement with the text.
Subjectivity: Readers bring their own experiences, emotions, and cultural contexts to the reading
process.
Gaps in the text: Readers fill in missing details or ambiguities in the narrative.
Reader as Co-creator: The reader’s role is to “complete” the text through their unique
interpretation.

TYPES OF READER-RESPONSE CRITICISM

Transactional Reader-response (Louise Rosenblatt): Reading is a transaction between the
text and the reader’s personal experience.
Affective Stylistics (Stanley Fish): the reader’s emotional and cognitive responses to the
unfolding text.
Subjective Reader-response (Norman Holland): Focuses on how readers’ psychological state
influences their reading.

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Reception Theory (Hans Robert Jauss): Emphasizes how historical context and audience
reception evolve over time.

KEY CONCEPTS
Implied Reader (Wolfgang Iser): A hypothetical reader who embodies all the presuppositions
necessary to understand the text as intended.

Interpretive Communities (Stanley Fish): Groups of readers sharing similar interpretive

strategies, shaping their understanding of texts.

RESPONSE VS. INTERPRETATION

Response- refers to a direct reaction to a statement, question, or situation, typically addressing it
straightforwardly without added analysis.
Interpretation- involves analyzing and explaining underlying meanings, implications, or
perspectives, often adding context or subjective insight beyond the literal content.

APPLICATIONS OF READER-RESPONSE CRITICISM

Close Reading: Analyzing how a reader’s experience unfolds moment by moment.
Analyzing Diverse Reading: Comparing different readers’ interpretations to explore the text’s
range of meanings.
Reader’s Identity: Exploring how factors like gender, culture, or historical period influence
interpretation.

CRITICISMS AND CHALLENGES

Subjectivity: potential for overly individualistic or arbitrary readings.
Lack of focus on text: risk of minimizing the importance of textual structure and authorial intent.
Challenges in Defining Valid Interpretations: how to determine which readings are more valid
or plausible.

CONCLUSION
Reader-response criticism highlights the active role of readers in meaning-making.

MEDIA CRITICISM
Media criticism is the analysis and evaluation of media content and practices.
Purpose: To understand how media shapes public opinion, culture, an d individual perceptions

WHY MEDIA CRITICISM MATTERS?

 Influence on Society: Media Affects societal norms, behaviors, and ideologies.

 Impact on Individuals: Media Shapes personal beliefs, self-image, and undeerstanding of
others.
 Democratic Responsibility: Informed citizens need critical media literacy to recognize bias
and misinformation.

 Content Analysis: Examining messages in media for themes, values, and biases.
 Framing Analysis: Studying how media presents issues to influence interpretation.
 Representation: Investigating who is included or excluded in media portrayals.
 Ideology and Power: Identifying the values and agendas promoted by media sources.
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CASE STUDIES AND EXAMPLES
•NEWS MEDIA BIAS-NEWS MEDIA OFTEN PLAYS A CENTRAL ROLE IN SHAPING PUBLIC OPINION ON
IMPORTANT ISSUES LIKE POLITICS, ECONOMY, AND SOCIAL JUSTICE. MEDIA CRITICISM IN THIS
CONTEXT LOOKS AT HOW DIFFERENT NEWS SOURCES MIGHT PRESENT THE SAME EVENT IN
DISTINCT WAYS, SOMETIMES EMPHASIZING OR OMITTING CERTAIN ASPECTS BASED ON POLITICAL
LEANINGS, CORPORATE INTERESTS, OR TARGET AUDIENCES.
•Gender Representation in Advertising - Advertising often relies on stereotypes to quickly
communicate messages, which can reinforce gender norms and expectations. Media criticism
explores how ads portray masculinity, femininity, and gender roles, questioning the impact of these
portrayals on society’s views of gender.
Social Media and Self-Image - Social media platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook
heavily influence personal identity and self-perception, particularly among young people. Media
criticism investigates how social media platforms, influencers, and algorithms can create pressures
around appearance, lifestyle, and social status.

MEDIA LITERARY SKILLS FOR CRITICAL ANALYSIS

Question Sources - Not all media sources are created equal; each has its own objectives,
ownership, and potential biases. By questioning who created the content and why, we gain insight
into the purpose and reliability of the information being presented.
Identify Bias - Bias in media can be subtle or obvious, influencing how information is framed and
interpreted. Media literacy involves recognizing signs of bias, such as selective language, tone, or
omissions, which may sway public opinion or push a specific agenda.
Analyze Impact - Media has a profound impact on viewers’ emotions, attitudes, and even
behaviors. Analyzing the impact helps us understand the deeper implications of media messages
and how they shape social perceptions and individual beliefs.

CONCLUSION
Empowerment Through Criticism: Media criticism helps us become more informed, critical
consumers of information.
Engage with Media Responsibly: Use media literacy skills to question, understand, and engage
responsibly with media content.

STRUCTURALISM
Structuralism is a critical approach that analyzes the underlying structures and patterns in
language, culture, and literature. It seeks to uncover the universal systems and relationships that
shape meaning and human experiences.

SIGNIFICANCE OF STRUCTURALISM

• 1. enhances literary analysis: Reveals themes and motifs in texts.

• 2. facilitates cultural understanding: decodes symbols, norms, and traditions.
• 3. improves language skills: clarifies grammar, syntax, and communication.
• 4. fosters critical thinking: challenges assumptions and promotes in-depth analysis.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

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 • Literature – analyzes stories by finding common patterns, like good vs evil or hero vs
villain.
• Language – studies how words and meanings work together using systems of signs.
• Culture – explains myths and traditions by finding shared ideas across societies.
• Media – examines how movies or ads tell stories to convey messages.
• Psychology – looks at hidden mental structures that shape human behavior.

CONCLUSION
• In conclusion, structuralism is a valuable tool for understanding complex systems. By
applying its principles, we can:
• - deepen literary analysis and cultural understanding
• - develop critical thinking and linguistic skills
• - enhance our understanding of human expression.

MARXIST CRITICISM
KARL MEINRICH MARX
Marxist Criticism- examines literature through the lens of class struggles, economic power
dynamics, and social inequality.
1) The bourgeoisie - who controls the means of production and wealth.
2) The proletariat -who operate the means of production and are controlled by the bourgeoisie.
MAIN IDEAS IN MARXISM
 Consciousness and perceptions within a society
 Often controlled by the ruling class
 Determined according to what is in the ruling class, best interests
 Confuses the alienated groups
 Creates false consciousness
“The Hunger Games”
In it, various districts are struggling economically and socially and eventually rise up against their
government.

IMPORTANCE OF MARXIST CRITICISM

-Marxist Criticism has been influential for critical theory.

-It aims to uncover power relationships and promote the emancipation of dominated classes.
Marxist critical theory emphasizes the role of class and economic relationship for systems of
oppression.
Marx envisioned a society in which workers owned the means of production.
-In the end, many people view Karl Marx and Marxism nothing more than the reasons for the cold
war, and the atrocities caused by many of the communist regimes that have been in power in the
world.

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WRITING A REACTION PAPER
Reaction Paper
Are specialized forms of writing in which an author review or evaluates a subject.
1. Scholarly works- academic books, researches, and articles.
2. Works of art- literary text, exhibits, plays film, performance art dance, even sports.
3. Designs- buildings, furniture, fashion design
4. Graphic design-posters, billboards, commercials, and other digital media.
Is sometimes called response paper or reader-response essay.
A written assignment that provides a personal opinion regarding a given piece of works.

REACTION PAPER FORMAT

INTRODUCTION
Title or name of the subject, authors or creators, date made, and other basic information about the
subject.
BODY
Has two section:
1. Summary-explains what the subject is. Is it scholarly work? A work of art? What is its
purpose? What does it contain? What can be seen from it?
2. Evaluation- presents your judgement of the subject. How well is the subject made? How do
you feel about it? What are its good and bad points? Is it work significant? May use critical
approaches.
CONCLUSION
Tells your overall impression of the work. Includes final judgement on the subject’s value,
significance, worth, or future improvements
TIPS FOR WRITING A REACTION PAPER
1. Understand the point
2. Read the text right after it has been assigned.
3. Make a note of your early reactions.
4. Select a perspective
5. Define your thesis
6. Organize your sections
7. Write the final version
8. Check your paper for spelling and grammar

REACTION PAPER EXAMPLE

It is dedicated to the famous movie “Memento” by Christopher Nolan.

Memento is a movie about a man with a rare neurological condition – anterograde amnesia –
seeking revenge for the rape and murder of his wife. He struggles to remember the recent events
and creates various hints in notes and tattoos to keep the focus on his mission. Throughout the
film, he meets different people who play weird roles in his life, contributing to the puzzle set by the
director in the reverse scene presentation.
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My first impression of the movie was confusing, as it took me half of the film to realize that the
scenes were organized in the reverse order. Once the plot structure became more apparent, I
opened many themes in the movie and enjoyed it until the end. Because of the severe brain
damage, Leonard could not determine whether the story of his wife’s rape and murder was real,
whether he had already been revenged for her death, and whether he was a hero or a villain. Thus,
for me, the film was about a painful effort to restore one’s identity and seek life meaning amid the
ruining memory and lost self.
The overall approach of Christopher Nolan deserves a separate mention. A unique design of shots’
sequence and the mix of chronological black-and-white and reverse chronological colored scenes is
a puzzle that a viewer needs to solve. Thus, it becomes a separate thrilling adventure from the
film’s storyline. My overall impression was positive, as I love Christopher Nolan’s auteur approach
to filmmaking and the unique set of themes and characters he chooses for artistic portrayal.

REACTING TO A SOCIAL EVENT OR PHENOMENON

• A social phenomenon refers to any pattern of behavior, thought, or action
that occurs within a society or group of people.
• A social event or social phenomenon refers to an occurrence or activity that
involves human interaction, behavior, or societal structures. These events
or phenomena can range from small-scale gatherings to large-scale trends,
shaping or reflecting cultural, political, or social dynamics.

EXAMPLES OF SOCIAL EVENT OR PHENOMENON

• Competition
• Marriage
• Divorce
• Immigration
• Racism
• Religion
• Destruction of the environment
• Crime
• Healthcare inaccessibility

KINDS OF SOCIAL PHENOMENA

BEHAVIORAL SOCIAL PHENOMENA
refers to the observable actions of individuals or groups and to mental phenomena such as
knowledge, attitudes, beliefs, motivations, perceptions, cognitions, and emotions.
• Peer Pressure
Influence from peers that leads individuals to adopt specific behaviors or attitudes.
• Conformity
The tendency of individuals to align their behavior or beliefs with group norms.

POLITICAL SOCIAL PHENOMENA

refers to the activities within an organization aimed at acquiring, developing, and utilizing power
and resources to achieve desired outcomes.
Elections:

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 • The process of choosing leaders or representatives through voting.
Legislation and Policy Changes:
• Introduction or alteration of laws that affect societal norms.
Social Movements
• These are collective actions or campaigns aimed at bringing about social or political
change,

HISTORICAL SOCIAL PHENOMENA

refers to the ways in which previous actions or events influence the lives of and behaviors of a
particular person or group.
The Suffrage Movement (19th–20th Century)
• A movement advocating for women's right to vote, which gained
momentum in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
The civil rights movement:
• This movement took place from the 1940s to the 1970s. It was a response
to discriminatory policies and norms, and led to changes in government
policies and cultural norms.

CONCLUSION
Reacting to social events or phenomena is integral to understanding and navigating the
complex structures of society. Social events and phenomena, whether behavioral,
political, or historical, reflect the interplay of human interactions, cultural norms, and
societal changes.

WRITING A REVIEW
- A review is an evaluation of a text, event, object, or phenomenon. It aims to provide an
analysis, offer an opinion, and guide readers or viewers in making informed decisions.
- Writing a review is an essential skill in both academic and professional settings because it
encourages critical thinking and clear communication.
- - The primary purpose of a review is to inform, evaluate, and recommend. Whether
reviewing a book, movie, product, or event, the reviewer must provide helpful insights while
supporting their opinions with evidence. A good review not only summarizes but also
critically examines the subject.

TYPES OF REVIEWS:
- Book Reviews: Focus on analyzing themes, characters, and the author’s message.
- Film Reviews: Discuss acting, direction, and overall storytelling.
- Product Reviews: Evaluate features, usability, and value for money.
- Restaurant Reviews: Analyze food quality, service, and atmosphere.
- Academic Reviews: Critique research articles or studies.

STRUCTURE OF A REVIEW
A well-written review typically follows this structures:
- Introduction: Introduce the subject and its context.
- Summary: Briefly describe the content.
- Evaluation: Highlight strengths and weaknesses with specific examples.
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- Conclusion: Summarize your judgement and provide a recommendation.

STEPS IN WRITING A REVIEW

1. Understand the work thoroughly by reading, watching, or experiencing it carefully.
2. Determine the reviewer’s purpose.
3. Gather evidences to support your evaluation.
4. Draft your review, ensuring you follow the structure.
5. Edit and proof-read for clarity and coherence.

LANGUAGE FEATURES OF A REVIEW

When writing a review, use:
- Formal Tone, specially for academic or professional purposes.
- Objective language, avoiding unnecessary bias.
- Evaluation words, such as “remarkable,” “poorly executed,” or “outstanding.”

SAMPLE REVIEW
Book review
Book title: To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee
Introduction: This timeless classic explores themes of morality and justice.
Summary: The story follows scout finch as she witnesses racial prejudice in 1930s Alabama.
Evaluation: Strong narrative voice and moral themes are its highlights, though some may find the
pacing slow.
Conclusion: A must-read for those interested on social issues.
Rating: Five (5) Stars

IMPORTANCE OF REVIEWS
- Reviews are valuable because they help people make better decisions. For example, a review of a
product can tell you if its worth buying, while a film review can guide you on whether a movie is
worth watching. Reviews also help creators improve their work by receiving constructive feedback.

WRITING A CRITIQUE
A critique is a detailed analysis, evaluation, or assessment of a subject, such as a work of art,
literature, research, film, or performance. It involves examining the subject’s strengths,
weaknesses, and overall effectiveness, often providing constructive feedback to enhance
understanding or improvement.

THE IMPORTANCE OF WRITING A CRITIQUE:

1) Encourages critical thinking

2) Promotes constructive feedback
3) Fosters a deeper understanding
4) Enhances communication skills
5) Contributes to intellectual and artistic discourses
6) Cultivates objectivity

HOW TO WRITE A CRITIQUE?

1) Understand the work thoroughly
2) Identify the purpose of the work
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3) Analyze the content
4) Evaluate with evidence
5) Be balanced and objective
6) Provide constructive feedback
7) Use clear and concise language
8) Conclude with a summary
9) Revise and edit
EXAMPLE STRUCTURE OF A CRITIQUE
1. Introduction
 introduce the restaurant and the dish
 Purpose of the review

Example:
“During my recent visit to The Garden Bistro, I had the chance to try their signature dish, the
‘Truffle Mushroom Risotto.’ In this critique, I will evaluate the dish based on its flavor, presentation,
texture, and overall dining experience.”
2. Summary of the Dish
 Description of the dish

Example:
“The ‘Truffle Mushroom Risotto’ features creamy Arborio rice cooked with a rich mushroom medley,
finished with a drizzle of truffle oil and a sprinkle of Parmesan.”
3. Evaluation
 Taste
Example:
 Positive: “The risotto had a rich, earthy flavor from the mushrooms, complemented perfectly
by the subtle yet fragrant truffle oil .”
 Negative: “While the truffle oil added an aromatic touch, the dish was slightly under-
seasoned, making the rice feel bland in some bites.”
3. Evaluation
 Presentation
Example:
 Positive: “ The dish was beautifully presented, with the creamy rice arranged neatly and
garnished with finely chopped herbs and a few delicate mushroom slices on top.”
 Negative: while the dish was flavorful, the presentation was a bit sloppy, with rice spilling
out of the edges of the bowl.”
3. Evaluation
 Texture

Example:

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  Positive: “The risotto had the perfect balance of creaminess, and the rice was tender yet had
a slight bite, giving it a satisfying texture.”
 Negative: “The mushrooms, though flavorful, were a bit overcooked and mushy, which
detracted from the otherwise smooth texture of the dish.”
3. Evaluation
 Portion Size and Value

Example:
 Positive: “The portion was generous for the price, providing ample servings of risotto with a
healthy amount of mushrooms.”
 Negative: “While the dish was flavorful, I felt the portion size was small for the price, leaving
me wanting more.”
 4. Suggestions for Improvement
 Example:
 “To improve the dish, I would suggest enhancing the seasoning to bring out the flavors more
and perhaps adding a bit more texture with some crunchy elements, like toasted pine nuts
or crispy shallots.”
5. Conclusion

Example:
 Positive: “Overall, the ‘Truffle Mushroom Risotto’ was a delightful and perfectly executed
dish. The flavors were balanced, the textures were spot-on, and the presentation was
appealing. I highly recommend this dish to anyone looking for a rich and satisfying meal at
The Garden Bistro. It’s clear that great care and skill went into crafting this dish, and I look
forward to trying it again.”
5. Conclusion

Example:
 Negative: “Overall, the ‘Truffle Mushroom Risotto’ at The Garden Bistro was a flavorful and
satisfying dish, though it could benefit from slight improvements in seasoning and texture.
Despite these minor flaws, I would recommend it to anyone who enjoys creamy risottos with
earthy flavors.”

CONCLUSION
In conclusion, writing a critique is not just about judging a piece of work but engaging with it
critically. By understanding, analyzing, and providing feedback in a balanced way, we help others
improve their work while also strengthening our own analytical skills.

READING AND WRITING AN INFORMAL REPORT

An informal report is a brief, unofficial document that provides information or updates on a specific
topic, project, or situation. It’s often used for internal communication within an organization.

CHARACTERISTICS OF AN INFORMAL REPORT

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 1. Brief and concise
2. Unstructured or semi-structured format
3. Lack of formal tone and language
4. May include visuals, charts, or tables
5. Focuses on information sharing rather than rigorous analysis

ARE INFORMAL REPORTS CAN BE CONSIDERED ACADEMIC TEXTS?

Informal reports can be considered academic texts in certain contexts, but not always.
WHEN INFORMAL REPORTS ARE CONSIDERED ACADEMIC TEXTS:
1. Written for academic purposes (e.g., research, projects)
2. Follows academic conventions (e.g., citations, references)
3. Intended for academic audiences (e.g., peers, mentors)
4. Contributes to scholarly discourse or knowledge
WHEN INFORMAL REPORTS ARE NOT CONSIDERED ACADEMIC TEXTS:
1. Lack formal tone and language
2. Not inteded for academic purposes and audiences
3. Do not follow academic conventions
4. Focus on practical or technical applications rather than scholarly research.

HOW TO WRITE AN INFORMAL REPORT:

Step 1: Plan and Prepare

1. Define the purpose and scope
2. . Identify the target audience
3. Gather relevant information
4. Determine the reporter’s structure
2. Step 2: Write the Report
1. Use a clear and concise writing style
2. Include an introduction or summary
3. Provide relevant details and information
4. Use visuals and attachments as needed
5. Conclude with recommendations or actions
3. Step 3: Edit and Revise
1. Review the clarity and accuracy
2. Check the grammar and punctuation error
3. Ensure consistency informatting
4. Get feedback from others

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READING AN INFORMAL REPORT:
Here are some steps and tips for effectively reading an informal report:
1. Pre-Reading
1. Understand the purpose
2. Familiarize yourself with the context
3. Set Objectives
2. While Reading
1. Scan the report
2. Identify the key points
3. Focus on key sections
4. Take notes
3. Post-Reading
1. Summarize the key points
2. Analyze and interpret
3. Evaluate recommendations
4. Develop an action plan

FORMAL REPORT
• A report is a written document that presents the results of an investigation, project. Or
initiative. It can also be an in-depth analysis of a particular issue or data set

2 TYPES OF REPORTS
1. INFORMAL REPORT
Are communication tools for organizatons that allows them to share information internally in a
timely manner to ensure they are informed.
2. FORMAL REPORT
Contains information based on larger studies of research. The audiences not only include the
internal employees, but also the executives and shareholders outside an organization.
Formal report covers a wide range of documents that analyzes information, determines conclusions
and offers recommendations to solve problems.
Functions:
1. Holds a record of something which have been observed or investigated
2. Highlights problems and offer solutions

HOW TO WRITE A FORMAL REPORT?

1. Clear and concise.
2. Written in a formal business tone.
3. Planning and rhetorical awareness are critical.
4. Proofreading

PARTS OF A FORMAL REPORT

There are three parts of a formal report. These are the Overview, Main Body, and Conclusion.
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Overview- contains the purpose of the report and what you hope to achieve in carrying out the
investigation
Body- Highlight Problems found during the investigation
Conclusion- Number of sensible solutions to tackle the problem you found.

ROLE OF DOCUMENTATION IN WRITING A FORMAL REPORT

• Whenever research based on other people’s work is included in a report, credit must be
given to that work. Proper documentation adds credibility to the information presented in a
report and protects the writer against charges of plagiarism.

TO ADD CLARITY TO WRITING AND AVOID CHARGES OF

PLAGIARISM, DOCUMENT THE FOLLOWING:

1. Another person’s ideas, opinions, examples, or theory

2. Any facts, statistics, graphs, and drawings that are not common knowledge
3. Quotations or another person’s actual spoken or written words
4. Paraphrases of another person’s spoken or written words
5. Visuals, images, and any kind of electronic media

ROLE OF CONDUCTING RESEARCH IN WRITING A FORMAL REPORT

• Collecting research is a critical part of writing the formal report. The conclusions made and
the recommendations that follow should be based on facts, statistics, expert knowledge and
other forms information.
• Collecting credible, up-to-date, and reliable information is a critical part of writing a formal
report. Given the easy access to research databases, the internet, and other sources of
digitized information, collecting information is nearly effortless today.

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