Close Reading
What is the effect of repetition in a passage?
It emphasizes an idea or theme.
What is the difference between central idea and theme?
Central idea: nonfiction main point
Theme: universal idea in literature
Define diction
The author's word choice.
Read the question carefully and underline task words.
Define the word "resilient"
Able to recover quickly from difficulties
What is the difference between inference and prediction?
Inference: based on evidence
Prediction: based on what might happen next
Example: Theme of Of Mice and Men.
Loneliness and the need for companionship
Why does sentence structure matter in literature?
It affects pacing, tone, and emphasis
What should each body paragraph include?
Topic sentence, evidence, explanation, and connection to central idea
What is the difference between denotation and connotation?
Denotation: dictionary definition
Connotation: Emotional association
Identify the purpose of imagery in descriptive writing.
To appeal to the senses and create vivid pictures for the reader.
How do small details often connect to central idea?
They serve as evidence to reinforce the main point.
How can symbolism develop a central idea?
By representing abstract ideas through concrete details.
How does analysis differ from summary in the Regents essay?
Analysis explains how strategies build central ideas while summary retells the plot.
What does "ambivalent" mean?
Having mixed or conflicting feelings about something
A narrator whose perspective cannot be fully trusted.
How can multiple central ideas interact in one passage?
They can complement or contrast each other.
What is the effect of shifting point of view in a narrative?
It changes perspective and adds complexity.
Example: Identify a central idea in MLK's "I Have a Dream"
Bonus: Name one literary device he uses.
Central Idea: Equality
Bonus: Repetition
Kind, charitable, generous
Why might an author use irony in nonfiction?
To critique or highlight contradictions in society.
Why is the theme never just "love" or "friendship"?
It must express an insight about life, not just a topic.
Identify a writing strategy in this line: "She stood frozen, her heart pounding like a drum."
Simile and imagery to show fear.
What Regents rubric category do students lose the most points in?
Analysis; not explaining how evidence connects to the central idea
Example: In context, what does "The boy's actions were egregious" mean?
Shockingly bad or offensive