Annotation :)

Okay, I had a comment on one of the posts regarding exactly what I mean by annotation, but rather than just replying there, I decided I would post the answer just in case some of you are not reading all of the comments.

I realize that many of you may never have annotated a text before. Basically the term annotation means taking notes on the text as you read. When you mark a type of figurative language for example, you may want to underline, circle, or highlight it initially. Then in the margin, you can mark what kind it is or just your thoughts about what it might mean or why the author used it. Your marginalia (notes in the margin) should not be in complete sentences; sometimes they are not even complete words. I often mark a metaphor as "met" or hyperbole as "hyp" and then just write a dash and my little notes to myself as to what it might mean. If you have trouble understanding what any of the things I asked you to annotate are, check on the next page of your assignment because most of them are also dialectical journal requirements. This is where you will learn to understand your future teacher's methods. I am actually having you annotate so that you are looking for the quotes and examples for your dialectical journaling! Then your dialectical journal commentary can lead us into discussion and a deeper appreciation for Salinger's purpose in Catcher in the Rye.

Here are some examples of how I might annotate various things in the text:

"I swear that boy is dumb as a post."
- I would highlight or underline "dumb as a post." Then I would jot down, "sim--has no brain like wood."

"Our steaks were charred."
- I would highlight or underline charred as an example of effective diction (word choice). Then I would jot down, "burned from neglect, school doesn't care about kids, just app" (app meaning appearance for me).

I will try to provide more examples throughout the summer, especially as you request. (Some will be from the book; some will not.) Feel free to ask about a particular example that you need help with or that does not make sense to you. Remember one type of annotation is just your questions and personal commentary, which should also be jotted down in the margin.

If you absolutely cannot stand marking on the text, you can always use sticky notes...though it definitely becomes slow and cumbersome along with making the rest of the page difficult to read.

Each of your questions makes me more excited to be you all's teacher next year! Keep up the good work!

How to get a new copy of the assignment

I know this seems like a pain, but it is better than not having the assignment! I have uploaded the assignment to my classroom webpages, which were just created this summer. Unfortunately, they still have my old blocks listed. I attached the summer reading assignment to all six blocks, so once you go to this website, click on any one of the blocks, and you will see the summer reading file. Be sure you don't get the senior one! :)

http://rogers.jt.tylerisd.org

Dialectical Journal Entry Example

Here is an example of a dialectical journal entry for hyperbole:

Quote from Catcher in the Rye:

“You never saw anyone nod as much in your life as old Spencer did” (Salinger 9).


Mrs. Rogers’ Commentary on this quote:

From the beginning, we can tell that Holden is uncomfortable inside the Spencers’ home. He knows that he has been expelled from his high-end private school, and this teacher has asked to see him before he leaves. His over-emphasis on Spencer’s nodding probably serves two functions. First, it highlights the contrast between what Holden views as Spencer’s senility or dementia and his own young, lucid mind. Holden believes he sees everything clearly rather than just “getting a kick out of” a blanket. Sometimes we exaggerate someone’s shortcomings (like incessant nodding) because we feel sure that they are judging us for our own errors or weaknesses. If we judge them back, we don’t have to feel bad about ourselves. Holden knows he is to blame for his expulsion, but it is easier to make fun of Spencer’s nodding than to accept his own shame.


Remember that when you write commentary on a quote for your dialectical journal entries, your goal is to find the hidden messages about Holden or the overall meaning of a scene or interaction. What you do not want to do is include a personal story as a weak connection with the quote.


If you need me to explain any part of this example more fully or if you have a question about another type of example or the general annotating, please feel free to comment!

Mrs. Rogers

Hello Incoming Freshmen!

Welcome Class of 2015! I hope you are beginning your reading of The Catcher in the Rye by JD Salinger. I am working on finding a way to upload the document with your summer reading assignment to this blog, but the assignment should also be available on John Tyler's website. I will be updating this blog frequently with tips and helpful examples for you to reference in completing your assignment. Please feel free to comment either with your name or anonymously, and I will be sure to answer your questions or to address your concerns. I look forward to meeting all of you, and I can't wait to see your analysis!

Mrs. Rogers