Object Description

Pick two ordinary objects within site of your computer. One should be an object that you think is well designed and one should be an object that you consider to be poorly designed. (Toothbrushes, hairbrushes, pens, pencils and chairs are excellent objects.) Using all of your senses- sight, sound, touch, taste, smell - check out the two objects. Set them down. Taking a piece of paper, draw a line down the middle. Mark one side + and the other side -. Record your observations for the + object and for the - object with the following steps:

1. Describe the basic physical size, dimension and material of the object.

2. Analyze your object’s place in history; compare it to other similar objects.

3. Explain fully what your object is used for, even its multiple uses.

4. Interpret your object’s functionality by describing that it works ‘like a ….’

5. Tell why your object is a good or bad object.

Use this technique as you contemplate your daily tasks. You will be raising your awareness and critical thinking about the objects that you use. This will help you when you come to design new objects or systems for everyday life.

Think of five favorite things to eat. Think of the smell, taste, texture and consistency of each food item. Use words to describe in detail all aspects about the display, delivery, anticipation, taste, and mode of consuming your favorite foods! Make your mouth water! Savor each bit!

• All writing tells the same information.
  • true
  • false
• This type of writing tells the author's opinion:
  • descriptive
  • explicative
  • interpretive
• This type of writing tells basic accepted facts:
  • descriptive
  • explicative
  • interpretive
• This type of writing uses the words 'like' or 'similar to':
  • descriptive
  • explicative
  • interpretive
• Careful word choice helps clearly express ideas.
  • true
  • false