How to Annotate

Annotations identify the main idea of a text.

• True

• False

Answer explanation

By highlighting key points, topic sentences, and important details within a passage, the reader can pick out the central message or argument presented by the author.

Tags

CCSS.RI.8.10

CCSS.RL.8.10

CCSS.RI.6.10

CCSS.RI.7.10

CCSS.RL.6.10

Only words can be annotations.

• True

• False

Answer explanation

No, annotations can include not only words but also symbols (like ?, *, or !), highlights, underlines, arrows, and other visual markings to indicate key points or connections within a text.

Tags

CCSS.RI.8.10

CCSS.RL.8.10

CCSS.RI.6.10

CCSS.RI.7.10

CCSS.RL.7.10

In fiction, annotations can identify the use of literary elements.

• True

• False

Answer explanation

You can highlight, note, and analyze specific aspects like symbolism, figurative language, character development, plot points, setting details, and themes. You might notice one of the elements and consider it important.

Tags

CCSS.RI.8.10

CCSS.RL.8.10

CCSS.RI.6.10

CCSS.RI.7.10

CCSS.RL.7.10

A question can be an annotation.

• True

• False

Answer explanation

You may wonder what will happen or have a question for your teacher the next day.

Tags

CCSS.RI.8.10

CCSS.RL.8.10

CCSS.RI.6.10

CCSS.RI.7.10

CCSS.RL.7.10

Annotations showcase the reader's voice and ideas to supplement (add to) the content.

• True

• False

Answer explanation

Annotations should be your thoughts and reactions to the text.

Tags

CCSS.RI.8.10

CCSS.RL.8.10

CCSS.RI.6.10

CCSS.RI.7.10

CCSS.RL.6.10

Annotations should include word for word copying of parts of the text.

• True

• False

Answer explanation

You should paraphrase or react to the text, not copy word for word. Annotations should be your reaction.

Tags

CCSS.RI.8.10

CCSS.RL.8.10

CCSS.RI.6.10

CCSS.RL.7.10

CCSS.RL.6.10

Annotations should cover the entire text.

• True

• False

Answer explanation

It's more effective to selectively annotate key points, concepts, or areas where you have questions, rather than highlighting or commenting on every single part of a text.

Tags

CCSS.RI.8.10

CCSS.RL.8.10

CCSS.RI.7.10

CCSS.RL.7.10

CCSS.RL.6.10