On Critique

Liz Lerman’s Critical Response Process Below is a method we will use in class when reviewing peers work. You'll notice I use the language of "creator." This could be a director, writer, artist, etc. We'll always start this process with the creator sharing all or part of their work.

  • (1) Statements of Meaning: Begin with positives, but try not to just name “I liked…” This doesn't help. Try for more specificity. Start with questions such as:
    • What specific elements were meaningful for you in what you just saw?
    • Also, were there elements that were stimulating, surprising, evocative, memorable, touching, jarring, compelling, etc.?
      • Start by naming the element that had meaning then explain why.
    Creator's Framing: Ideally, creator's are able to clarify their focus using the step below, but, if needed, creator's can also work to clarify their focus by first explaining the intent behind their piece more specifically and then move into questions. Just know, by doing this first you miss out on an unfocused eye, which can lead to interesting and unusual ideas.
    • (2) Creator's Questions: The more creators clarify their focus, the more intense and deep the dialogue becomes. They can do this by asking questions about their piece. When asking questions, try to find a balance so that is not too specific, nor too broad. Examples:
      • How did you experience my transitions from one character to another?
      • This piece of evidence doesn't feel like it fits here, what should I do with it?
      • I’m working right now to end with a strong feeling, so what did you think of the closing section?

    • (3) Neutral Questions from Responders: Responders can ask the creator informational or factual questions. Do not give opinionated statements such as: "Why are your pieces always so long?" Seek neutrality in your questions:
      • How does time work to convey the story?
      • What were you trying to accomplish in the final section?
      • What are the most important ideas you want us to get? Where do you think that is happening in this piece?

    • (4) Permissioned Opinions: A chance for Responders to offer opinions about the piece, but this process will always use the following format: (a) responders first frame their opinion, (b) they then ask the creator for permission to state their opinion, and (c) the creator can decide whether or not they want to hear the opinion. Example frames:
      • I have an opinion about how you've edited the beginning, would you like to hear it?
      • I have an opinion about the evidence you've used, would you like to hear it?
      • I have an opinion about the ending, would you like to hear it?

    • (5) Closure: An opportunity for the creator to share any takeaways they are taking from this process. They should aim to answer the following question:
      • Based on what you’ve heard today, what’s your next step?