Date: September 21st
Topic: Exploding a Moment
This week was quite a
trip, literally. I was intrigued to learn about this topic in particular,
“exploding the moment.” Never once in my life have I heard the term used
before, so initially, I was lost. As the class commenced, it clicked. I’ve made
mediocre attempts at using it before, and have experienced it as well. I’ve
seen this technique used many times in movies, books, and even in
dramatizations. So, as the class progressed, it was slowly becoming clearer to
me.
Presently, I have a
very good understanding of the concept and how to use it properly. Exploding
the moment allows the author to freeze or slow down a section of the writing to
purposefully integrate showing details that methodically describe a situation.
This is done to aid the reader in connecting or noticing a captivating and
interesting scenario. To do this, the author may utilize the following
elements: sensory details, conversations between/among characters, thoughts of
the main characters (where feelings/emotions of the situation are expressed),
and more. Exploding the moment allows the reader to make a captivating,
meaningful, and experiential connection to the situation.
In my humble opinion, I
believe this lesson was brilliantly presented. We were exposed to the technique
in many ways: real life, short films, and literature. This, along with the
questions, explanations, and fruitful discussions, helped me to internalize the
concept. Because we were exposed to many ways the author can use to allow the
reader/audience to experience and explore the exploded moment.
To initiate my
students’ exposure to the technique, I will incorporate movies and literature,
where together we will discuss and identify the details that are being exploded
in the moment. As students get familiar with the concepts and learn how the
authors go about exploding the moments, we will together plan a short story,
write it, and choose a moment to explode as a class. I think this initial
method of exposure may aid in familiarizing the students with the concept
gradually.
I
am curious, however, to see the effects the technique will have on the quality
of students' writing. I believe that once they’ve mastered it, it will enhance
their writing ability a great deal.
Here is a lovely short video you can use to guide your students in learning about exploding the moment.
Hello, my LIT brother! Really glad that you've embraced the concept of "exploding the moment" and that you're planning to share it with your students through movies and literature—I can concur that it can really be an exciting adventure in learning! Teaching can sometimes feel like exploding a moment too when revealing new understandings to students. I am also intrigued by the potential impact this technique will have on your students' writing, particularly in the context of special education where you work. Hope when you eventually return, you can share that experience. Happy blogging! 😄
ReplyDeleteYes, you are quite right, the teaching/learning environment is quite the explosion of new knowledge taking place on a daily basis. It is lovely to know that I am not alone in being excited about learning these new concepts to bring back to our schools. Special education in particular I believe with the right tailoring would benefit greatly from many of these concepts and methodologies, and off-course I would share the experience.
DeleteHey Belfon, like you the phrase '' Exploding a moment'' was new to me ,however, as we continue to discuss and with the use of videos and practice using the literature I gain understanding of that phrase.
ReplyDeleteI am happy that you have a very good understanding and how to use the concept that in the near future i can call on you if i am doing something wrong when introducing it to my students or even when i am doing my piece as you have provided valuable insight in the past.
In relation to the presentation of the lesson i must agree with you that it was brilliant and that is what stood out to me. the method that was used by our teacher, the videos, using stories, the grand discussions, explanations and questions . one cannot help but remember a lesson like that not forgetting putting it into practice by completing our own piece where moments are exploded.
I cant wait for when we have to critique each others piece to indulge in persons moment being exploded.
until next time happy writing and blogging.
Yeap, yep, Malanda I must concur it was a new strategy for me as well and the techniques the lecturer used to aid our understanding cannot be overlooked. I know my students will be intrigued when they are listening to a moment
Deletebeen explodes. I will them the opportunity to explode a moment orally first, and then they will write their thoughts Girl, I can't wait to put my newfound knowledge into practice.
Off-course Miss Noel, just say the word, I would think that from time to time we may need each other guidance when we faulter. The benefit of the double-team :).
ReplyDeleteYes, I feel that same, the approach Miss Lazarus used to facilitate the concept “exploding the moment” was most ingenious indeed, one not soon forgotten I would say.
Reading how people explode their moments in their narrative pieces would be quite interesting.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading your blog post about "Exploding the Moment." It's evident that you've not only grasped the concept but also have a keen interest in understanding and implementing it. Your reflection on the class and your plan to introduce this concept to your students is well thought out.
ReplyDeleteI appreciate how you've described the "exploding the moment" technique and its elements, such as sensory details, character conversations, and thoughts. Your explanation is clear and makes the concept approachable. It's also great to hear that you've had exposure to this technique through various mediums, as it provides a well-rounded understanding.
I really do appreciate such motivating feedback. I do believe that the various modalities used to expose us to the concept made it more relatable, and much easier to internalize.
ReplyDelete