5.1 - Creating the Constitution, p. 4-5

Vocabulary Terms:

Key details are important pieces of information in a text that help us understand the main idea or topic. They provide specific facts, examples, or reasons that support the main points of the text. Identifying key details helps readers comprehend the text better and make connections between different parts of the passage.

Annotate - Making notes or markings in the text book to help you remember what you read.

Process Steps:

1. Preview the text: Look at the title, headings, and any pictures or diagrams. This gives you clues about what the passage might be about.

2. Read the passage carefully: Read the passage slowly and carefully. Pay attention to each sentence and try to understand what the author is saying.

3. Annotate the text using your high lighter or writing in the margin to help you identify phrases or sentences that stick out to you.

Example:

1. Preview the text.

2. Read the passage carefully.

3. Annotate.

Example:

1. The Constitution was the first set of laws established “by a country for running its government by the people themselves.”

2. In 1787 James Madison and other delegates held meetings to “discuss changes to the government.”

3. The delegates were interested in Madison’s ideas, and he became the main writer of the Constitution