Assessment criterion
Visual evidence
At least two accurate visual details, located precisely enough that another reader can find them in the work.
Teaching · Assignment excerpt
Three Formal Observations
A close-looking exercise that asks students to locate visual evidence, describe formal relationships and communicate a precise observation.
- Instructor
- Alex Dahdah
- Institution
- Richard Bland College
- Course
- ART 231 · Fall 2026
What the exercise develops
This exercise develops close observation and constructive peer response. It asks students to move beyond a list of art terms or a description of the subject, and explain a relationship they can point to in the image.
What students are asked to do
- Write three observations of 80–120 words each, responding to image posts by three different classmates.
- Identify at least two precise visual details, locate them and describe how they relate. Line, shape, value, contrast, emphasis, balance, repetition or rhythm can help articulate what is visible.
- Identify the work or frame and credit its maker, date and source where known. State any gaps rather than filling them with assumptions.
If an observation develops into an interpretation, distinguish the visible feature from the proposed effect or meaning. The artist’s intention, a camera setting or a production process should not be presented as fact without supporting documentation.
What Alex assesses
The assignment gives equal weight to evidence, interpretation of formal relationships, and completion and communication.
Assessment criterion
Formal relationships
A connected account of how those details work together. Symbolic or narrative interpretation is welcome, but is not required for a successful formal observation.
Assessment criterion
Clear communication
A substantive response within the assigned length, with the work identified and available maker, date and source information credited. Missing information is acknowledged rather than guessed.
Where it fits in the course
The exercise belongs to the study of form. It establishes the habits of locating evidence and separating observation from inference that support later comparative critique, contextual analysis and curatorial argument.
Public excerpt adapted from Alex’s Three Formal Observations assignment for ART 231, Fall 2026. Class submission instructions are omitted.