Workshop 3 Discussion
Please critique two students’ work in 250 words or more. Use the following questions as a guide:
Is the setting well-developed? Does it need to be? Is it overdeveloped — think about a balance and how it contributes to the story.
How does the story begin? Is there too much “telling” and not enough “showing?” A short story should not have a long buildup of backstory. It should be relatively short — to establish character motivation and set the scene.
Does the story’s scope or arc fit into its form? A 20-year timespan is not going to fit in a five-page story.
Does the arc follow the conventions of plot (rising action, climax, falling action, etc.)? If the plot structure is untraditional, what changes or shifts in the story to create a payoff for the reader?
How are the characters developed? Are they realistic? Are their motivations for their actions grounded?
Does the conversation seem realistic and engaging?
How does the story end? Do you have any suggestions for the ending?
Is the story organized appropriately — do you have any suggestions for reorganizing backstory, the beginning, character development, events, etc.?
Is the language of the story engaging — is there a strong voice or style that comes out?
Do the point of view and tense serve the story well? Do they remain consistent throughout?
Did you like the story? What does it mean? Are there any metaphors or symbols?
