The first step is observation. In this step, we ask the question: What does it say? Ask the obvious: Who? What? When? Where? Why? How? By gathering specifics about the passage, we collect evidence for understanding the context. If you are able, read the passage out loud to familiarize yourself with the content. Then, read it again, noting the following elements where appropriate: • Setting: Statements that indicate time, place, or people • Topic: Words or phrases that indicate a topic or a shift