Module
230 -Benchmark Competency Standard Effective
Interpretive Writing
(NPS Photo)
Recommended prerequisites:
Foundations of Intepretation (formerly Module 101)
Basic literary and writing skills -- NPS Universal
Competency
Context
Development of clear interpretive writing is critical
to public comprehension of park issues, themes, and
values. To achieve quality interpretive writing, it
is important to write effectively for various audiences
and media. Good interpretive writing provides memorable
images and ideas that facilitate connections between
audiences and resource meanings. These connections can
occur before, during, after, or instead of an actual
visit. More than a set of mechanical skills, interpretive
writing is based on philosophical and ethical underpinnings
which move audiences toward stewardship and care for
the resource.
Interpretive writing draws from technical, informational,
scientific, historical, and cultural sources and incorporates
creative techniques. It intends to result in a response
from the readers by connecting them emotionally and
intellectually to the meanings and significance of the
resource(s) being interpreted
This module does NOT convey basic writing mechanics
or other Universal Competency skills. Visit the Universal
Competencies website for more information on foundational
skills for all employees.
Competency
Description
Requires the interpeter to be able to convey resource
meanings effectively through the use of interpretive
techniques and organizational structure applied to written
products. Effective written interpretive products will
facilitate opportunities for the audience to make their
own intellectual and emotional connections to the meanings/significance
of the resource through the cohesive development of
a relevant idea or ideas, rather than relying primarily
on chronological narrative or a series of related facts.
Assessment
An original writing sample for a specific written medium,
including a statement of intended audience/venue, will
be submitted for certification.
View
the Assessment Standard.
View the Submission Guidelines.
Curriculum
The
curriculum components outline
the developmental learning elements that compose the
skills for this competency. From these outlines, 1)
employees and their supervisors can determine learning
needs and strategies, 2) instructors can develop sessions
and lesson plans. Each component also contains a list
of useful references and developmental activities.
Training
and Development Opportunities
A new NPS-developed on-line course in Interpretive Writing is available at http://www.parktraining.org.
Download
Download
Adobe
Acrobat Reader, a free software to read the complete
module in a .pdf format, including the components, submission
guidelines, and rubric.
