Note Taking
Questions appear in the margins of the Read-Aloud and Series 2 selections. On the second reading, the parent or reading partner pauses at these spots, and then reads the question aloud. Interrupting the flow of the story gives students time to think about and articulate their understanding of the story.
Afterward, in the classroom, students take time to share and compare their responses.
On the second reading in JGB Series 3 and above, students mark their text according to the Directed Note prompt for the story.
For example, students might be asked to mark with an "H" those places in the story where the Ogre appears more human, and an "M" those places where he appears more monstrous.
As part of this activity students share and compare the notations they have made. Seeing other students' notes and responses vividly illustrates how the text supports multiple interpretations.
This activity guides students through a challenging text and encourages them to read more actively, more carefully, and with a greater sensitivity to the significance of details.
Consistent use of Directed Notes helps students internalize different note-taking strategies, learn how to take notes on their own, and realize the value of reading with a question and purpose.
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