This study examines interactive interpretation as shifts in framing structures of alignment by identifying patterns of quotation usage in sequentially emergent discourse. A structural and microanalytic analysis was performed on the video-taped discussions of Modern Orthodox Jews as they read and interpreted the Hebrew Bible.

This study found that these Modern Orthodox readers used quotation practices in systematic ways in order to shift alignments of interpretive frames, participation frameworks, and primary frameworks. The participants accomplished textual, intertextual, social, and cultural actions by aligning interpretive frames. They aligned themselves within pedagogical, collaborative, collective, and assessment configurations by aligning participation frameworks. Finally, they affirmed cultural roles, systems, and relationships by aligning primary frameworks.

Quotation practices proved to be cultural resources which enabled Modern Orthodox members to achieve hermeneutic, developmental, and cultural purposes. It was found that the interpretive conclusions of these Modern Orthodox Jewish readers were congruent with those found in earlier Jewish writings. This congruence was posited to be the result of shared resources which aligned the readers within regular and patterned ways.