reading critically
TRANSCRIPT
In your journal, write down your thoughts about and impression of the above photo.
READING CRITICALLY
ESTABLISHING CONTEXT
Essay Topic
Author’s background & reputation
Original publication
Intended audience
Prior knowledge
IDENTIFYING ORGANIZATIONAL STRATEGY
Narration Telling a story or giving an account of an event
Description Presenting a picture in words
Illustration Using examples to explain a point or idea
Process Analysis Explaining how something happens or is done
Comparison/Contrast Demonstrating likenesses and differences
Division/Classification Breaking down a subject into parts and placing them in categories
Definition Explaining what something is
Cause/Effect Explaining the causes of an event or the effects of an action
Argumentation Using reason and logic to persuade
READ, AND REREAD.
Always read a selection at least twice,
regardless of length and level of difficulty
What are you looking for in the:
• Initial Reading?
•Second Reading?
WHAT TO ANNOTATE
Memorable statements or key points
Key terms or concepts
Central issues or themes
Examples that support a major point
Unfamiliar words
Questions
Responses
ANALYZING AND EVALUATING
What is the writer’s topic?
What is the writer’s thesis?
What is the writer’s purpose?
What strategy or strategies are used and how/where?
Does the strategy suit the purpose?
How effective is the essay?
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