Skip to Main Content

English I: Annotation Guidelines

Resources to help with English I projects based on assigned readings.

Using Text Symbols

What Does Annotation Look Like?

Other Helpful Tips

  • Inside front cover: character list, important page references
  • Inside back cover: list of themes, images, motifs, etc., with page references
  • Chapters: write a quick summary for each

Why Annotate?

Annotation is adding notes to a text as you read - not just highlighting!  You are actively reading & interacting with the ideas in the text.  Think of it as "showing your work" just as you would for a math problem or as having a conversation with the book!

When you arrive on campus in the fall, teachers will be engaging the required books in a substantive way in the classroom, so you should bring your annotated copies with you. You can find resources here to help you with annotations.

Don't forget - annotate only your own copy of the book!

A Student's Suggestions on Annotation

Annotating for Better Understanding

  • Identify components of the text that you understand & make notes on your interpretation
  • Look for: symbolism, images, themes, literary devices, plot, setting, or other key points
  • Summarize in the margins
  • Identify any confusing elements
  • Look up any unfamiliar words & note a synonym
  • Make connections to art, music, or other literature
  • Note dates, important people & important places
  • Draw arrows to show related ideas