QtA Note Taking
QtA stands for Question the Author. Have you ever been told that you shouldn't question those in charge, adults, or authority? Well in this form of note taking, I want you to do the exact opposite. Question EVERYTHING! Great readers ask the author questions to dig for a deeper understanding of the text.
(Basically, I want you to be as judgemental as Crookshanks here.)
You can ask questions about anything, but here are some strong examples to get you started:
- The author's writing style
- The characters' choices
- What the author says vs. what is not said and why
- What is the author's message?
- How is the author conveying that message?
- What is their purpose with this word? line? sentence? paragraph?
- This is what the author says, but waht does it mean?
- How does this text connect with what the author has already said?
- Does the author make sense here?
- Did the author explain this clearly?
- What is missing from the text? What more information do we need for understanding?
- Is this foreshadowing? What is going to happen next?
- Is this the best decision for this character?
- Why did the author choose to use this word?
- How has the author let you know that something has changed (in this character, plot, setting, etc.)?
Using sticky notes, practice the QtA strategy while you read chapters 1-3. After reading, we'll have a whole class discussion about the answers to these questions along with what else you asked.
Example of QtA in Bronx Masquerade:
This activity is great for students to develop metacognitive skills that they will use while reading any text. Through this strategy, students learn that authors aren't always perfect; they make mistakes. This can help students believe more in themselves as readers because it shows that "not comprehending what the author is trying to say is not always the fault of the reader" (Vacca 207).
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