Recommended: Read once for surface-level understanding/ overall context. Read again for depth of understanding. You might annotate each time you read.
Before you read, research information about the text. When was it published? In what publication? Do they have a specific purpose? What is the writer’s background? Can you trust them? Why/why not?
Circle unknown/unfamiliar words. Record the definitions of these words. Make notes on why the author would have used a particular word or phrase.
Ask questions of the author. What is confusing? What compels you?
As you read, research and take notes on the historical context or traditions/social customs that are used in the passage.
Underline and highlight 3-5 most important phrases or sentences. Re-write, paraphrase, or summarize a particularly difficult passage or moment.
Respond to what you agree with/ don’t agree with. Which evidence is compelling? Which evidence is questionable? Explain.
