In this assignment, you'll be writing three short character sketches that focus on the differences and similarities in each character's off-line and online lives. Your creation should be at least three paragraphs in length, with one paragraph devoted to each character. If you need to write more, feel free to do so. Each sketch should include images that help represent different aspects of the character's identity.
Provide as much detail as you can about each character and address the following questions in each of the three character sketches:
1. Who is this character in his or her off-line life?
2. What is this character's off-line personality?
3. In what ways does this character use social media?
4. How would you describe this character's online behavior or personality?
5. How would you compare this character's off-line and online behavior and personalities?
There is no single right answer to these questions. What's important is that you give a full sense of each character and a thoughtful analysis of how his or her online and off-line selves are related - or unrelated. Use plenty of specific examples when describing each character.
Step 1: Understand the Assignment
Rewrite the assignment in your own words. Underline any important words that help you focus on the task.
Step 2: Choose, Observe, and Explore Your Subjects
Review your notes from the lessons for information that might help you with the assignment.
The first step is to choose the two characters you'll write about besides yourself. Choose a friend whose online habits you know pretty well. The third character should be taken from a book, movie, or TV show. Let your imagination run with this. Choose a character you know pretty well but don't be constrained by reality here. You could choose Frankenstein's monster, the Little Mermaid, or Captain Ahab from Moby Dick. Imagine what their online lives would have been if they'd had access to the Internet and how their online interactions might match or conflict with their off-line day-to-day lives. With so many choices, don't spend too long choosing - and don't be afraid to make a choice that seems off-the-wall!
1. When you've made your choices, fill in their names and other information in the two charts below.
2. Now let's imagine your characters' interactions in the virtual world online. First, though, think about different ways that people use the Internet and interact online.
3. Now let's apply these ideas about online activity to your characters. Again, don't be afraid to stretch your imagination in exploring your fictional character's online life!
4. How would you compare the online and off-line behavior and activities of your characters?
5. Before moving on with your assignment, think about what images you could use in each sketch. What visual aids might illustrate the online and off-line lives of each character? You should have at least two visuals for each character.