Page 83 - Foundations of Learning, 4th Edition (Revised)

Two common methods of inset outlining are the dot-dash method of outlining and a method using
Roman and Arabic numbers along with upper and lower case letters.

Table 3.2

Example of the Dot-dash Roman Numeral, Letter, and
Outlining Method Number Outline Style

• Processes and Methodologies I. Main Heading
• Knowledge Maps A. First sub-heading
1. First main point
—Process a. supporting detail
—Concept b. supporting detail
—Tool 2. Second main point
—Context a. supporting detail
• Process Education b. supporting detail
—Classification of Learning Skills c. supporting detail
B. Second sub-heading
• Cognitive Domain
• Affective Domain II. Second Main Heading
• Social Domain A. First sub-heading
—Cooperative Learning

The example in the first column of Table 3.2 illustrates the dot-dash method of outlining. The outline
is for a chapter in a text about an educational philosophy called Process Education. Note that you can
start the outline with either dots or dashes. Many public speakers who present from notes tend to use
the dot-dash method, along with a larger than normal typeface making it easier to read the information
and keep their place when glancing down.

The pattern for using Roman and Arabic numerals, and upper and lower case letters is presented in the
second column of Table 3.2. Main headings use Roman numerals. The capital letter “A” identifies the
first sub-heading, “B” the second sub-heading and so on. The Arabic number “1” identifies the first
main point under a sub-heading, “2” the second main point and so on. The small letter “a” identifies
the first supporting detail of a main point.

A final word about outlining: be sure to include enough information in your outline to make it meaningful.
One-word notes are much less valuable than meaningful phrases when it comes to studying and
reviewing material.

Read and Question

Think of questions you would like answered as you read and take notes. It is also a good idea to jot
down questions when you skim a reading. By asking questions, it helps you focus your note-taking
on material that you find worthwhile and reliable. Questions you raise during your reading can be
used to assure that your notes are accurate. Note that the words what, who, where, when, why and
how can help trigger questions you might want to ask in connection with a reading.

Chapter 3 — Reading Methodology 77