Understanding Close Reading Techniques

The video tutorial explains the concept of close reading, its historical context, and its inclusion in the Common Core Standards. It compares the Common Core's definition with that of literary scholars, emphasizing close reading as a mode of analysis that goes beyond comprehension to interpretation. The tutorial outlines the steps involved in close reading, including observation and interpretation, and clarifies what close reading is not, addressing common misconceptions.

What is one reason why the term 'close reading' has become more common in recent years?

• It was included in the Common Core Standards.

• It is a new concept developed by scholars.

• It is a method used only in university settings.

• It is a term used exclusively in literary circles.

How does the Common Core define 'close reading'?

• As citing specific textual evidence to support conclusions.

• As a technique to memorize text content.

• As a way to summarize a text.

• As a method to predict the effect of a text on readers.

What is a primary goal of close reading according to scholars?

• To predict the text's impact on society.

• To summarize the text.

• To uncover and explore a text's underlying ideologies.

• To memorize the text.

What are the two main steps in the process of close reading?

• Reading and observing.

• Reading and summarizing.

• Interpreting and summarizing.

• Observing and interpreting.

What is a key activity involved in the first step of close reading?

• Summarizing the text.

• Making direct observations.

• Using secondary sources.

• Predicting the text's impact.

What should you look for during the interpretation step of close reading?

• The text's length.

• The author's biography.

• Patterns and anomalies in observations.

• The text's publication date.

What is the third step in close reading when writing a paper?

• Predicting the text's impact.

• Forming a cohesive argument.

• Using secondary sources.

• Summarizing the text.

Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of close reading?

• Focusing on the text's content.

• Speculating on the reader's reaction.

• Using secondary sources.

• Discovering the one 'right' answer.

Why is close reading considered a useful mode of analysis?

• It focuses on the text's historical context.

• It is grounded in the text and explores its layers of meaning.

• It relies heavily on secondary sources.

• It provides a single correct interpretation.