Practicing Analyzing Content using Lateral Reading

Last week, we focused on identifying information in primary texts through a lateral reading process. You may want to return to the Week 4 module to review the video and reading on how lateral reading works and why we read this way. This week, you begin to analyze the content of a primary text, using a lateral reading practice, to determine how information circulates regarding a particular text or topic.

First, choose a primary text from the Learning Materials section of the Week 6 module. You will want to peruse each text to see which one interests you the most.

Next, read the source, creating a list of linked material within the source, or any topics you think you will want to find more information about. The more detailed your list, the easier it will be to return to those topics when you begin answering questions from the list below.

Last, begin to answer the questions below under “Analyzing Content.” These questions are taken directly from the Unit 2 Overview; not only will they look familiar for that reason, but they will also guide your process for writing about your primary source in your Unit 2 essay. Work through as many of the questions as you are able before class is over. Submit to this assignment before leaving today.

Analyzing content questions:

• What connected/related texts seem to be most important to understanding the primary text and why?
• Where do these connect/related texts fall on an information cycle? Does this seem like a topic that hasn’t been studied very much, given what you’re able to find? What might that suggest about the role or value of these connected/related texts in developing additional information about the topic of the text?
• What additional context do the related texts offer to a reader? And how may that additional context shape what how a reader cares about or engages with the topic?
• Identify some of the key conversations surrounding the topic, based on your search. How does the primary text support, challenge, or digress from these other conversations?
• Who else was involved in the larger conversation about the text? What perspective did they add to it?
• What content or ideas related to the text seem to circulate the most? What does this that tell you about public knowledge and perception of the topic?