Close Read the Text

Question

This model, 1from paragraph 4 of the text, shows two sample annotations, along with questions and conclusions. Close read the passage and find another detail to annotate. Then, write a question and your conclusion.



Annotate: These are all very specific examples of different kinds of information we get from computer technology.



Question: Why does the author mention such specific items?



Conclude: Using specific terms helps make a connection to readers--- they may recognize their own use of technology in these examples.



Annotate: The author repeats the word you.



Question: Why does the author put so much emphasis on the word you?



Conclude: He is stressing the idea that we are all personally responsible for our uses of technology.



















When you filter out the useless Facebook messages, out of context tweets, and all the GIFs from Reddit, you see that you---yes, you—are in control of your own information network. Best of all, you can do anything you want to do with it.





















For more practice, go back into the text, and complete the close-read notes.





Revisit a section of the text you found important during your first read. Read this section closely and annotate what you notice. Ask yourself questions such as “Why did the blogger make this choice?” What can you conclude?



Annotate:

Question:

Conclude:









Analyze the Text



Notebook Respond to these questions.

(a) Paraphrase Explain the blogger’s comparison of technology to the polar vortex.



The blogger’s comparison of technology to the polar vortex was



(b) Evaluate Is his comparison effective? Explain.











Speculate Why do you think he specifically addresses teens?



I think he specifically addresses teens because



Interpret What does the blogger mean when he says that teens must “take charge in an informed, responsible, and powerful way”?



The blogger means______________________ when he says teens must take charge in an informed, responsible, and powerful way.



Essential Question: How is modern technology helpful and harmful to society?



Technolgy is helpful to society ______________________, but on the other hand it can be harmful to society___________________.





What have you learned about the ways that technology can help or harm society from reading this blog post?

Answer 1

Close Read the Text

Annotate: The blogger emphasizes that individuals have the power to curate their own information network by filtering unwanted content.

Question: What does the author convey about the importance of personal agency in navigating technology?

Conclude: The author is suggesting that taking control over what we consume from technology is crucial for an informed and meaningful engagement with the digital world.

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Analyze the Text

(a) Paraphrase Explain the blogger’s comparison of technology to the polar vortex.

The blogger’s comparison of technology to the polar vortex was to illustrate how technology can be both overwhelming and isolating, much like the harsh, frigid conditions caused by a polar vortex. Just as the polar vortex can affect everyone’s daily lives and compel individuals to adapt, technology shapes our experiences and requires us to find ways to manage it effectively.

(b) Evaluate Is his comparison effective? Explain.

Yes, his comparison is effective because it highlights the dual nature of technology—it can be simultaneously beneficial and detrimental. By likening technology to a polar vortex, he effectively communicates the idea that while technology offers countless opportunities for connection and engagement, it can also create challenges and isolation if not managed wisely.

Speculate Why do you think he specifically addresses teens?

I think he specifically addresses teens because they are often the most immersed in digital technology and social media, making them more susceptible to its pitfalls. By targeting this audience, he aims to empower them to navigate the digital landscape responsibly.

Interpret What does the blogger mean when he says that teens must “take charge in an informed, responsible, and powerful way”?

The blogger means that teens should actively and thoughtfully engage with technology, making conscious choices that reflect their values and priorities. Taking charge implies being proactive about the content they consume and understanding the implications of their online activities.

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Essential Question: How is modern technology helpful and harmful to society?

Technology is helpful to society by facilitating communication, providing access to information, and fostering connections across distances, but on the other hand, it can be harmful to society by promoting misinformation, contributing to social isolation, and impacting mental health negatively.

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Reflection: What have you learned about the ways that technology can help or harm society from reading this blog post?

From reading this blog post, I learned that technology can enhance our lives by offering tools for connectivity and knowledge-sharing; however, it also poses risks such as the potential for digital fatigue, confusion from excessive information, and the danger of social disconnection if individuals do not use it mindfully.