Annotating Texts An essential skill for active readers

Before Reading 0 Examine the front and back covers (books) 0 Read the title and any subtitles 0 Examine the illustrations 0 Examine the print (bold, italics, etc.) 0 Examine the way the text is set up (book, short story, diary, dialogue, article, etc.) 0 As you examine and read these, write questions, and make predictions and/or connections near these parts of the text.

During Reading Mark in the text: 0 Characters – descriptions, conflict, changes, thoughts 0 Setting – imagery, description, relation to mood 0 Unknown/unfamiliar vocabulary 0 Important information/quotes 0 Big ideas (themes) 0 Symbols, trends, motifs 0 Similes, metaphors, allusions

Write in the margins 0 Summarize 0 Make predictions 0 Formulate opinions 0 Make connections 0 Ask questions 0 Analyze the author’s craft 0 Write reflections/reactions/comments 0 Look for patterns/repetition

After Reading 0 Reread annotations—draw conclusions 0 Reread introduction and conclusion—try to figure out something new 0 Examine patterns/repetitions—determine possible meanings 0 Determine what the title might mean

Basic Annotation Symbols ? – This is confusing ! – This is a surprise This is important This is an example of … characterization, literary device, theme (must label what it is an example of) Box character names and write the name in the margin YOU MUST ALSO ADD NOTES to your symbols. Symbols aren’t enough on their own.