Close Reading Techniques

Close reading isn’t magic. In fact, it is probably in the textbook you have in your adoption. Try pulling it out to see an example. The problem most of the time with the textbook examples is simply the questioning techniques and levels. They are rarely high enough on the DOK levels.

So where do I start? Start with the textbook. Teach a text inside it and add higher level questions to go with the objective they have attached to it. Add sticky notes to the sides so it is ready for teaching the next year. Add notes as you teach of questions students had to be prepared for next year.

Add subject vocabulary at certain spots in text. For example, if the section of text being taught next involves the first hint of foreshadowing then have a short mini-lesson on it to start the day.

Add a quick note where research is needed. For example, the students see a reference to Adolf Hitler in a text and not all members of the class know who he is or at least, not aware of what his place in history will reveal. Perhaps the line in the text you are teaching is an allusion to him therefore requiring a mini-lesson on allusion as well. But have students use a reliable sight (that you researched before and made sure the information is what you wanted them to find or at the very least, checked for appropriateness to the level you are teaching) such as history.com and research the person or event or idea that aids their understanding. The key work here-aids- is important. Be sure you are having them research needed information and not simply added for the sake of busy work. There is plenty to research in any text, but if researching Hitler helps the students to comprehend what an allusion is in a “hands-on” type of way through application, then add it.

Don’t forget choral reading. Add notes where that is needed or helpful to help aid fluency, and often, understanding of text when the vocabulary if fluently read.

Read a small section “Reader’s Theater style”. Take a small section and let the students take on the rolls and read out the dialogue. For example, in Tell-Take Heart by Poe or Harrison Bergeron by Vonnegut have students read out the ending scene to HEAR, not just read, the tension, suspense, plot twist like endings.

Another idea is using small group packets or documents to guide the class with close reading techniques as YOUR guide to facilitate the classroom instead of direct instruction.

Close Reading works. Make your own from scratch or use the textbook as a starter, but add the needed DOK 2 and 3 questions to make it the instruction that really counts.

Here is a set of annotating bookmarks for ELEMENTARY SCHOOL age students.

Here is a set of close reading MIDDLE SCHOOL bookmarks. Enjoy!