Common Core: 12th Grade English Language Arts

This subject focuses on developing advanced reading, writing, and analytical skills essential for college and career readiness.

Basic Concepts

Close Reading and Literary Analysis

Unlocking Meaning Through Close Reading

Close reading is about digging deeper into a text to understand how authors craft their stories, poems, or essays. This skill helps you move beyond just what a text says to analyze how it says it—looking at word choices, structure, literary devices, and tone.

Techniques for Close Reading

  • Annotate the text by highlighting or underlining key phrases.
  • Ask questions about why the author chose certain words or imagery.
  • Notice patterns, such as repetition or metaphors.

Why Literary Analysis Matters

Literary analysis takes your reading further. You examine themes, character motivations, and the impact of literary devices. This helps you form arguments about the text and support your ideas with evidence.

Real-World Connection

These skills are vital in college and careers, where interpreting complex materials and presenting clear analyses are essential.

Examples

  • Analyzing how Shakespeare uses metaphors to convey Hamlet’s mental state.

  • Identifying and interpreting the theme of identity in a novel.

In a Nutshell

Close reading and analysis help you discover deeper meanings and develop critical thinking.

Key Terms

Theme
The central topic or message explored in a text.
Metaphor
A figure of speech comparing two things without using 'like' or 'as'.