Critical and Close Reading

Critical and close reading is an important learning object of this course.

• Find a quite place without distractions and read the assignment.
• Underline and highlight important passages.
• If questions or issues come to mind, jot these down either in the margin or on a separate sheet of paper, or in an electronic document - whatever works best for you.
• Look up terms and vocabulary that are unfamiliar.
• Bring both the assigned reading and your notes to class.

In class, you should be able to provide a brief synopsis of the reading. For example, can you answer

• What does the text say?
• What are the key terms and/or vocabulary?
• How does the text support what it says (e.g. reasons and evidence)?
• What is the significance of the text? Why should anyone care?