Describe in detail the physical setting in which you observed – pretend that the reader hasnever been to such a place before and be specific (e.g., how big is the room in feet and inches?

There are two components to this assignment: Observation and Context .One element of this assignment is composed of a sustained 15 minute period of systematic observation and writing on social interaction. What you need to do is figure this out prior to your observation. Once you know what you will note (and ignore), pick a location and observe and record what you see for 15 minutes. Be careful as you take your notes not to fall into the trap of writing creative nonfiction. While it is tempting to embellish your observations with what you perceive your subjects to be doing, be careful, there are often motivations at work that are unseen to you. If you would like to interpret the actions of those you are observing make sure to indicate which notes are your thoughts and which are your observations. A good way to do this is to set up your notes in two columns, one which contains a list of your observations and another which contains your interpretation and thoughts. Another popular method is to bracket your thoughts within the body of your notes. 1. Where and who are you observing? When were you there?2. Describe in detail the physical setting in which you observed – pretend that the reader hasnever been to such a place before and be specific (e.g., how big is the room in feet and inches?How many tables, chairs, desks are there?). Maps and diagrams are helpful.3. What are the stated and unstated rules regulating behavior in this setting? Give thissome thought as this is a central feature of ethnography and cultural anthropology.4. Note general patterns of behavior, speech, interaction – what are most people doing most ofthe time? (This is what I meant by “general summaries” above).5. Describe those observed in general terms: how many of them are there, what are thegender/ethnicity/linguistic divisions, are there other characteristic that distinguish them as agroup (uniforms, physical characteristics, et al.).Reflect on your own feelings and thoughts while you were in this setting.