Close Reading promotes careful analysis of text while building the 21st century skills of critical thinking,
collaboration, and communication. With the Close Read Passages, students are guided through repeated
readings of a single passage using strategic discussion and questioning at four layers of depth, from
surface level to a deeper understanding of the text.
Close reading requires students to analyze, evaluate, and think critically about a given text.
Close Read Passages help students practice close reading skills through multiple readings of the
text. The accompanying Close Read Question Guides offer scaffolded questions to help you guide
students in using close reading skills to find layers of meaning in a text. Some passages are
also connected to Leveled Books at a similar reading level, enabling you to create cross-textual
connections.
How to Use Close Read Resources
Passages
Encourage student practice using two- to four-page grade-appropriate passages engaging
topics.
Print, project, or assign passages digitally for whole-class, small-group, or individual
instruction.
Differentiate instruction using multilevel passages. The three levels are indicated by dots
on the passage: one dot (•) for the lowest level; two dots (••) for the middle level; three
dots (•••) for the highest level.
Close Read Questions & Question Guide
Challenge students with scaffolded questions during each reading of the text. (You can
project the Close Read Questions for the whole class or print out and cut up individual
questions for discussion groups or independent responses.)
The guide also includes optional questions, an answer key, details about the passage text,
and information about cross-textual connections for passages connected to Leveled Books.
