The plan today had been to post a CCSS-aligned primary source activity focused on close reading of images and texts but input from a great group of teachers at a professional development session necessitated a blog detour. So, instead, we’ll share a close reading markup strategy remix and resource list that TPS-Barat put together for another recent PD session. Keep in mind that close reading strategies can be used to dive deep into texts as well as a variety of other primary source types. What other strategies can/do you use?
Close reading markup strategies
- Number each paragraph, excerpt, or area.
(Consider dividing the text/source into sections or areas; mark each chunk with a rectangle.) - Circle unknown vocabulary.
(You may do this for students or have them do it.) - Highlight key terms.
- Underline (straight line) claims.
- Underline (wavy line) evidence that supports a claim.
- Mark ? next to a part of the text/source that is unclear or confusing.
- Mark ?! next to a part of the text/source that raises questions or is thought provoking (i.e., makes you want to investigate further to learn more).
- In the left margin (or using sticky notes, a digital comments tool, or a separate chart), summarize/rephrase author/creator claims.
- In the right margin (or using sticky notes, a digital comments tool, or a separate chart), highlight author/creator purpose/intent (e.g., describing, explaining, comparing, contrasting, etc.).
Close reading resources
Keep It or Junk It: A Student-Run Lesson (video from the Teaching Channel)
Thinking Notes: A Strategy to Encourage Close Reading (video from the Teaching Channel)
Five close reading strategies to support the Common Core (blog post from iTeach. iCoach. iBlog.)
Common Core: Reading, Understanding & Analyzing Complex Texts (blog post from Catlin Tucker: Blended Learning and Technology in the Classroom)
Strategies for Close Reading and Critical Reflection (wiki page from Mark A. McCutcheon, Assistant Professor of Literary Studies, Athabasca University)
