Writers interact with texts on several levels. A writer can simply report what is written, or a writer can filter what is written through his or her intellect, interacting with the information in a variety of ways. Below are several ways in which writers interact with texts.
Objective
Reporting
an objective statement of what has been said or written
Values: Necessary for understanding; Basis for discussion
Dangers: Knowledge without application
Inferring
Developing a conclusion based on a careful reading of textual evidence through the application of reasoning
Values: Rigorous application of deduction and reason; evidence based
Dangers: Logical fallacies
Explicating
a close reading of a text exploring the meaning (or possible meanings) of the text through an examination of language and literary elements
Values: A deeper understanding and appreciation of the significance and artistry of a text
Dangers: Imposing meaning on the text rather than drawing meaning from the text
Subjective
Interpreting
an attempt to explain or explore the meaning (or possible meanings) of what has been said or written through the use of examples, illustrations, analogies, statements, or ideas not contained in the original statement but generated by the listener/reader
Values: Improves understanding as reader/listener appropriates the material by applying analogies, personal experience; promotes relevance
Dangers: Misinterpreting what was said
Evaluating
value statements that indicate the judgements of the listener/reader on the relative worth of what has been said or written
Values: Emphasizes discernment; Applies critical thinking according to standards
Dangers: Judgements based on prejudice
Responding
statements that indicate the listener/reader is engaged in dialogue/discussion with the speaker/writer over the content/ideas contained in what has been said/written
Values: Promotes critical thinking (application of reason) and leads to deeper exploration of issues; Argumentation; Dialogue
Dangers: Failing to "hear" what has been said/written; losing focus
Reacting
statements that indicate the listener/reader has used the speaker’s/writer’s comments as a springboard for personal reminisces, views, or ideas; statements that express the feelings of the listener/reader as a consequence of what has been said or written rather than statements that express what has been said or written
Values: May lead to a personal appropriation of material; Associative thinking; May reveal personal assumptions, biases, prejudices
Dangers: Misunderstanding/ignoring what has been said/written