Page 73 - Foundations of Learning, 4th Edition (Revised)

Write to help process what you read.
Writing is a good way to process what you have read and to make it a lasting part of what
you know (rather than something you forget right after a test or quiz). There are a variety
of possibilities appropriate in different contexts. For example:

• take notes in a notebook

• annotate the text by writing comments and notes in the margin of the text itself

• summarize by condensing and recording the subject matter, without including your
own questions and opinions

• write a response in a reading journal—summarize what you read but include your
own thoughts, questions, and opinions

Summarize and read your responses. This works well when you are reading sources for
a research project. It is also helpful for courses based on class discussions of reading
assignments. In these cases, you will have to represent what your source said as well as
offer your own commentary on the source.

Summarize, annotate, and take notes when reading textbook material that you will be tested
on later. In these situations your personal opinion is usually less relevant than showing that
you know the material. Many of you will find using a combination of these options will
work best for you.

Ask questions and form opinions as you read.
Ask and jot down questions you would like answered about the material. This increases your
concentration and keeps you actively engaged in the reading. Critically engaged reading
may mean that at times you are willing to disagree with or challenge the author. Write down
these opinions too.

Step 5—Assess and Reread

Assess what you have read. Make modifications to your notes as needed. Summarize what you have
gained from the reading. Determine if there are errors, inconsistencies, and pieces of information
which are still unclear or missing. Reread what is needed to enhance understanding, clarify and
answer questions that remain unanswered, and make sure that objectives for the reading are met.

Step 6—Synthesize Information

Make connections between what you are reading and other materials you have read. Also, make
connections with other courses you have taken or are currently taking as well as connections with
personal experience in other contexts in your life (e.g., at work or at home). Ask yourself, what
questions does the reading raise for you that will require further reading and learning to answer?
And how can I best make use of what I read?

Chapter 3 — Reading Methodology 67