Annotating for key themes and text features
When reading and annotating sections of a text, you can use the acronym ‘SCRIBBLE’ to help
you remember what exactly you are looking for in your analysis. Noting and remembering
the below elements allows you to form a deeper understanding of the text and its themes –
you should also draw on this evidence to enhance the depth of your text response essays and
creative responses.
Symbols (also, Setting)
(Look for any reoccurring symbols throughout the text and their suggested meaning. Notice how the
setting creates a mood/atmosphere and whether this helps to establish themes and ideas further)
Character Development (characterisation)
(Note where main characters change or grow. Look for what characters say, think, feel and do and
consider how this shapes your understanding of them throughout the course of the text)
Relevant themes
(Identify key themes/ideas/concerns within significant passages/pages of the text)
Important quotes
(Underline or mark important quotes that link to themes/ideas/concerns or characters)
Basic plot
(Note significant moments in the plot e.g. exposition/introduction, climax, resolution)
Bonds/connections to wider text
(Note how the paragraph or line links to ideas within the whole/wider text or any connections to other
texts you’ve read or seen, e.g. movies)
Literary devices (and language choices)
(Note where literary devices are used. For example – imagery, simile, metaphor, personification,
repetition, alliteration, juxtaposition (contrast) and foreshadowing. Look for anything interesting in
terms of adjectives, adverbs and the overall style of language - e.g. flowery, informal etc. )
Evaluate/ask questions
(Take notes on any observations, questions, ideas and judgements while reading)