eMysteries Toolkit

The European Commission's support for the production of this publication does not constitute an endorsement of the contents, which reflect the views only of the authors, and the Commission cannot be held responsible for any use which may be made of the information contained therein. [Project Number: 2019-1-DE03-KA201-060127] 39 Choosing a text It is important to note that not all texts are suitable for close reading. Texts with simple storylines and easy to understand vocabulary may not provide the opportunity for deeper examination and analysis required in close reading practices (Burke, n/d). A complex text that will successfully enable the implementation of close reading practices should include the following elements, here illustrated from the excerpt above: Vocabulary Complex words that can be used in a range of contexts. Be age and target audience appropriate. Note the use of ‘desolate’ in connection to ‘house’ in the first line. Note how the excerpt uses several words and phrases semantically connected to ‘cold’ ( thin sheet of ice; slightly bluish tinge; ice princess; ice cold; chill; congealed ). Vocabulary is easy enough for an upper secondary school student, but its uses suggest the need to read this initial excerpt from the book attentively and making inferences on the images and symbolism created. Text features Features such as compare and contrast / problem and solution / cause and effect. Use of descriptive writing. Layout of the text, including headings, subheadings, and signal words. Note the use of two comparisons ( He thought she looked like a princess lying there. An ice princess. / He caressed her arm, as if he were caressing the soul that had now left her body.) Note also the use of contrast. Contrast “His love for her had never been stronger” with “He didn’t look back when he left. It was not good - bye’’, it was ‘until we meet again’.” There is a problem in need of a solution: who is she? Who is he? Why is she dead? Why does he sit by her when he knows she’s dead? Why does he go away? Has he killed her? Note the use of descriptive writing ( The house was desolate and empty. The cold penetrated into every corner. A thin sheet of ice