What does close reading entail?

Close reading involves reading a text multiple times to delve deeply into its content in order to uncover layers of meaning. This approach emphasizes analyzing specific words, phrases, and structures to fully grasp the intricacies of the text, including themes, nuances, and the author's intentions. It requires careful attention to the text, which encourages critical thinking and a richer understanding of the material.

While reading speed and fluency are important skills in literacy development, they do not define the essence of close reading. Similarly, while group reading can enhance understanding through discussion, close reading itself centers on individual interpretation and analysis. Lastly, reading aloud can play a role in comprehension but does not align with the analytical focus that characterizes close reading. Thus, the core of close reading lies in exploring and interpreting the deeper meanings within a text.