Taking Notes
Lesson 1 offered some challenging readings to provide you with historical context, a sense of zeitgeist, and a grounding in key concepts. How well did you do at taking notes on these readings and ideas?
- Taking notes is so much more than copying down a few phrases. In fact, it doesn't involve copying at all, but rather, owning the material that you read.
- Taking notes is so much more than copying everything. In fact, it doesn't involve everything but only the most essential material you must remember.
The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn will test your ability in many skill areas, such as the ability to crack the code of dialect, understand satire, note significant details from a story, and thoughtfully examine some controversial issues of race relations in 19th century America. To be prepared properly for all the twists, turns, and hills of this reading journey, you will need the skill of note taking.
In later lessons you will do more in-depth study of different aspects of note taking. For now, get a quick peek at some basic strategies
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View the Note Taking Slide Show.
Did you take notes on how to take notes? Whether you did or not, be prepared to use these strategies on the following pages.
Reflection
Note Charles B. Fairbanks' thoughts about reading in the sidebar, and discuss with your mentor.
- How is reading a new, challenging literary work like donning new clothing? Fairbanks notes the discomfort, newness, and adjustment time. Explore his simile by identifying other ways reading is like putting on new clothes.
- How can note taking prevent the chafing, blisters, and stiffness caused by the newness of a reading?
- How can note taking complicate the process of tackling a tough reading? If it complicates, how do you balance the need to create a record of your reading and learning with the need to keep focused and motivated?
Are you ready to increase the savings in your word bank? Or do you need to dive into creating your own canon? Decide with your mentor which step to take next.
