Close Reading What is close reading Close reading

Close Reading

What is close reading? Close reading is when you choose a specific passage and analyze it in fine detail, as if with a magnifying glass. This requires you to reread the passage several times

First Read Who is the boy talking to? What is he holding on to? How are his arms positioned?

Second Read How does the dog feel? Where are they? What is the relationship between the dog and the boy? What stereotypes are being portrayed in this picture?

Second Read How does the artist show us what the text says?

Third Read-What does the text mean? In your opinion, is the cartoon funny? Explain why using details from the picture.

Close Reading a passage Read the passage a minimum 3 times Annotate as you read

Why do we annotate? 1. Improve your concentration so you will not become distracted and have to reread the text. 2. Provide an immediate self-check for your understanding of the text’s key ideas. 3. Help you remember more. 4. Assist you in getting ready for tests on the material. 5. Reduce the need of time spent in rereading the chapters. 6. Help you state ideas in your own words.

Steps to annotating 1. Circle and define any unknown words. 2. Paraphrase each section/paragraph. 3. Underline or highlight key phrases or ideas. 4. Write down questions. 5. Determine the main idea.

First Read 1. Read text and circle unknown words. 2. Paraphrase each paragraph: *Reread each paragraph and in the margin write what the author is saying in your own words. 3. Write down questions

Second Read: How does the text say it? Inferences-What knowledge and experiences of your own do you bring? Craft and structure –How do the ideas and texts connect to each other?

Third Reading: Digging for meaning What does the text mean? Why did the author write this article? What does the author want us to think about? What does the central or “big idea” in this article mean in our world? What information does the author choose to use or leave out?