ELI 162
Reading Skills

Keys to good reading include

Thinking about the purpose in your reading

The following suggestions are for "study reading," not "pleasure reading."

Setting the stage

Look at the title and any major headings

Ask yourself, What is this about? What do I already know about the topic?

This activates a 'schema' -- a framework -- for the information you will read. It takes a few minutes at the beginning of your reading, but can save you a lot of time in the long run.

See if there are "Discussion," "Conclusion," or "Summary" sections. If so, read those first. Then, very importantly, THINK ABOUT WHAT YOU JUST READ!!!

Reading thoughtfully

The key to good study reading is thinking while reading. Stop after every few paragraphs and ask yourself,

• What was the main idea of what I just read?
• How does that fit with what I already know?
• Do I agree or disagree with the author?

Take notes while you are reading.

Underline in pencil words you don't know-- unless you are completely lost, look them up later. If you see the same unknown word two times, look it up.

Highlight key dates or facts that are likely to show up on a test. Make notes in the margin so that you can quickly see why the facts are important.

Reviewing after reading

Ask yourself,

• What was the main idea of what I just read? Write down your answer.
• What were three supporting details? Write down your answers.
• How does that fit with what I already know?
• Do I agree or disagree with the author?

THINK WHILE YOU READ!!! Eye movement is not reading!

162 Index
ELI Home Page