This Is A 10-13 Page Paper Of Creative Nonfiction Based On
This Is A 10 13 Page Paper Of Creative Non Fiction Based On a Student
This is a 10-13-page paper of creative non-fiction based on a student’s exploration of a subcultural group, event, place, or person unfamiliar to him/herself, and written as a profile of that subject. The paper should include a cover page, an introduction stating the purpose of the research, a narrative describing a typical day of the subcultural group, event, place, or person—synthesizing observations, reflections, and information from conversations and interviews—a conclusion presenting the student’s perspective on the topic, a Works Cited page with three sources, and two appendices for recorded observations and interviews.
Paper For Above instruction
Introduction
The purpose of this research was to explore and understand a subcultural group unfamiliar to me. I aimed to gain insight into their daily lives, values, and social dynamics through direct observation, interviews, and immersive engagement. This exploration was driven by a desire to broaden my perspective on diverse communities and challenge my preconceived notions about groups different from my own.
Profile Subject and Methodology
The subcultural group I chose to examine is the local skateboarding community in my city. I gained access through conversations with skaters, attending their events, and participating in their routines over several weeks. My methodology included informal interviews, participant observation, and reflective journaling to capture authentic experiences and insights.
Narrative: A Typical Day
A typical day in the skateboarding community begins early in the morning at the city park’s skatepark. The air is filled with the sounds of wheels rolling over concrete and the murmur of conversations. Skaters of all ages gather, some warming up with basic tricks, others demonstrating more advanced maneuvers. I observed Jake, a 16-year-old who had been practicing for three years. His routine involved stretching, trying new tricks, and encouraging newcomers.
Throughout the day, conversation flowed around technique, equipment, and personal stories. One skater, Maria, shared her journey of overcoming societal stereotypes and gaining confidence through skating. The community fosters a sense of belonging, with members exchanging tips and supporting each other's growth. The social dynamics reveal a nearby subculture centered on creativity, resilience, and shared identity.
By mid-afternoon, the group often moves to nearby spots for street skating, navigating urban terrain with agility and ingenuity. The community values skill and originality, with competitions and exhibitions serving as outlets for expression. As the sun sets, skaters pack up but exchange contact information, promising to meet again. This day exemplifies the community’s interconnectedness, shared language, and passion.
Reflections and Student Perspective
This exploration deepened my understanding of how subcultures foster identity and community among members who may face societal marginalization. The skateboarding community, in particular, exemplifies how shared interests can create a sense of home away from mainstream society. I was struck by the positive influence of mentorship within the group, where experienced skaters willingly teach newcomers, emphasizing inclusion and growth.
My perspective shifted from viewing skateboarding solely as a recreational activity to recognizing it as a meaningful cultural practice with its own language, values, and social bonds. Witnessing the authenticity and camaraderie among skaters challenged stereotypes of youth rebellion, revealing instead a complex subculture characterized by resilience and collective creativity.
Conclusion
This research and immersion into the skateboarding community provided valuable insights into a subculture that is often misunderstood or dismissed. I learned that beneath the surface of street tricks and urban aesthetics lies a vibrant community rooted in shared values of perseverance, self-expression, and mutual support. Engaging directly with members enabled me to appreciate the depth and richness of their cultural identity, broadening my perspective and fostering a greater appreciation for diverse ways of life.
Works Cited
1. Becker, H. (2008). Outsiders: Studies in the Sociology of Deviance. Free Press.
2. Fine, G. (2012). Knot in the Heart: A Memoir of a Skateboarder's Culture. University of California Press.
3. Hodkinson, P. (2002). Goth: Identity, Style and Subculture. Berg Publishers.