Wondering: What I know, Don’t Know, & Want to know

So after writing my last post, I realized that there is a LOT of stuff I could do on tattoos. Can I narrow down this topic even more? Looking at the I-Search method for my last trailblazer, there was a part in Bowen’s The I-Search Process With Grade 5: They Learn! that I really liked. She had them stop and think/record everything that they knew about the subject before they started any research. I sort of explored what I knew and what I wanted to know last time, but I thought I could take the time to explore it even more. I’m hoping that not only help me realize what I already know, but spark an interest in a certain area that will help me narrow down my topic

What I Know

• Most tattoos are done with tattoo guns that have needles with vibrate really fast.
• Many states require professional tattoo artists to be licensed.
• I have seen tattoos that were done by tapping the needles along the design.
• Tattoos equipment can be expensive. Most use one time inks and needles so that infections/diseases are not spread.
• Tattoos are generally connected with the “wild child”. Although, nowadays, almost everyone has a tattoo and can been seen as a fad.
• Flash is what you call pre-made/on the wall designs. You can also have custom designs where the tattoo artist will draw the design for you.
• Tylenol can be used to dull the pain. However, you don’t want to use aspirin or alcohol as they thin the blood and can promote excessive bleeding.
• There are popular reality shows that focus on tattooing, such as Miami Ink.

In Connecting Writing and Research through the I-search Paper it is mentioned that Joyce & Martin have students continue on this pre-note taking process and create additional lists on what they didn’t know and what they wanted to know. I can already see some things that are sparking my interest for further research, but I want to see if I can come up with anything else.

What I don’t know

• Where did tattoos originate from?
• How for back into history can they be found?
• What materials were first used?
• Why are tattoos associated with the “wild child/crowd”?
• How many different ways can tattoos be created?
• What exactly are the safety precautions demanded by states?
• How do you get your tattoo license?

What I would like to know

• The history of tattoos. Where did they start? Who first thought of them?
• How many ways are there to do tattoos? Are they tied to certain cultures?
• What cultures use tattoos as tribe symbols/other meanings besides body art?
• How do you get a tattoo licenses/what skills do you need to possess?

I think I’ve given myself quite a bit to think on.  This exercise has definitely helped me though. There are several ideas that popped up that I can easily tie together and use as my main focus. I’m going to think on it a little more tonight/tomorrow. Hopefully, I’ll have another post up tomorrow stating what my focus is and why.

~ by Drea on September 9, 2008.