Close Reading and Literary Analysis

Through close reading, thinking routines, and small-group discussion in English coursework, boys examine key moments in a text, consider alternate perspectives, and ask meaningful questions—developing both a deeper understanding of literature and the ability to engage in open-minded dialogue.

Through close reading of fiction and poetry, boys learn to notice patterns in language, structure, and character behavior. These patterns unlock deeper meaning, revealing themes like identity, perseverance, and connection. Working together to interpret literary devices and recurring elements, boys become more thoughtful readers and more appreciative of literature.

In seventh and eighth-grade English, boys engage with complex texts from modern literature and the Western canon. They uncover layers of meaning, explore multiple perspectives, and make connections across time periods, themes, and styles. These experiences sharpen their analytical tools and expand their understanding of literature’s power to reflect and shape the human experience.