Click on a box to explore each topic.
Preview the selection before you read:
• Look at the title, subtitles, pictures, captions, graphics and words that are bold-faced and italicized.
Describe how the information is organized:
• If you understand the organization, it will help you to predict what to expect.
Read with a purpose:
• Underline or highlight main ideas and supporting details. Circle important terms and key vocabulary. Facts can be proven.
• Ask questions about the concepts, evidence and conclusions drawn in the text.
Ask questions of and make predictions about the text you read:
• This active reading strategy will help you connect with the text.
Make connections and build on your understanding:
• Adding new information to what you already know may change your ideas.
• React to the ideas presented in the texts by using personal experience or background knowledge.
Summarize and evaluate what you read:
• After you finish reading and marking the text, skim the text again, noting the important ideas and concepts you discovered.
• Write a brief summary of the text. Paraphrase.
• Think about what you have read and learned. Your understanding will grow as you continue to think about what you have read.