20 Reading Strategies
Reading Strategies
Reading strategies are like tools in a toolbox. Just as a carpenter uses different tools for different jobs, readers can use various strategies based on what they’re reading and why. Here’s a guide on how to use different reading strategies for various purposes.
| Strategy | Purpose | How to Use |
| Skimming | To quickly understand the main idea or overall structure of a text without reading every detail |
|
| Scanning | To find specific information within a text like finding a date, a name, or a definition; useful for research or finding answers to questions quickly |
|
| Close Reading | To deeply understand and analyze a text; helps in uncovering details, themes, and intentions of the author |
|
| Predicting | To anticipate what might happen in a story or text; helps you stay engaged in your reading |
|
| Questioning | To engage actively with a text by asking questions before, during, and after reading; helps with critical thinking and understanding |
|
| Summarizing | To rewrite the main points of a text, focusing on the main ideas and overall message |
|
Listen before you read:
Read:
Predicting
-
- Based on the introduction and the first few paragraphs, predict what the rest of the passage will discuss.
- Write down your predictions before reading the full passage.
_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
The Rise of Pickleball
Pickleball, a paddle sport that combines elements of tennis, badminton, and table tennis, has seen a significant surge in popularity over the past decade. Originally invented in the 1960s as a children’s backyard game, pickleball has evolved into a competitive sport enjoyed by people of all ages.
One reason for its growing popularity is its accessibility. Pickleball is easy to learn and can be played on a smaller court than tennis, making it ideal for older adults or those new to sports. The game’s social nature also appeals to many, as it encourages interaction and community building.
The sport’s rise is evident in the increasing number of pickleball courts being constructed in public parks and recreational centers across the country. Tournaments and leagues are also becoming more common, with events attracting players from various skill levels.
Moreover, the health benefits of playing pickleball are substantial. It provides a good cardiovascular workout, improves balance and coordination, and is less strenuous on the joints compared to other racket sports. These factors make it an attractive option for those looking to maintain an active lifestyle.
In conclusion, pickleball’s blend of fun, accessibility, and health benefits has contributed to its rapid growth. As more people discover this exciting sport, its popularity is likely to continue rising.
Applying Reading Strategies:
Skimming
-
- skim the passage to get a general idea of its content.
- Write down the main idea of the passage in one or two sentences.
____________________________________________________
____________________________________________________
____________________________________________________
Scanning
-
- scan the passage for specific information such as key statistics or names.
- Find and underline the year pickleball was invented and list two benefits of playing pickleball.
1. ____________________________________________________
2. ____________________________________________________
Close Reading
-
- read the passage carefully to understand the details.
- Identify and highlight three reasons why pickleball is becoming popular.
Reason 1: ___________________________________________________
Reason 2: ___________________________________________________
Reason 3: ____________________________________________________
- Summarizing
- summarize the passage in your own words.
- Write a short summary (3-4 sentences) of the passage, focusing on the key points.
____________________________________________________
____________________________________________________
____________________________________________________
____________________________________________________
- Questioning
- ask questions about the passage
- Write down three questions you have about pickleball after reading the passage. Discuss these questions with a partner and see if the passage answers them.
____________________________________________________
____________________________________________________
____________________________________________________
Adapting Your Voice for Different Contexts
Read the article “Navigating New Horizons: An Afghan Student’s Communication Journey in College and the Workplace”. Read the first paragraph. Identify one problem that new immigrant face in adapting to a new communication style
Ahmad walked through the lively campus of his new university in Canada, his heart brimming with a mix of excitement and apprehension. In Afghanistan, he was always known for his eloquence, but here, he was stepping into a completely new realm of communication. Adapting to speaking English on a daily basis was just one part of the challenge; understanding the subtle differences in cultural communication was another.
During his initial weeks, Ahmad observed the diverse language registers used by his professors and peers. The formal, precise language of academic literature was a stark contrast to the informal, relaxed conversations he overheard in the cafeteria. It was like learning a new dance, one step at a time, and Ahmad was eager to join in.
At his part-time job at a local technology store, Ahmad continued to navigate these linguistic waters. The language here was less formal than in his academic life but still demanded a degree of professionalism. He watched how his colleagues altered their tone, whether they were talking to a customer, a fellow employee, or the store manager. Each interaction was subtly different, influenced by the nature of the relationship and the situation.
Ahmad soon realized that being an effective communicator was about more than just fluency in English. It was about understanding the intent behind each conversation and knowing your audience. In group assignments, he strived to put his ideas forward in a clear and confident manner, considering the diverse backgrounds of his team members. When giving presentations, he practiced engaging his audience, which included his classmates and professors, with the appropriate level of formality.
His job provided additional learning opportunities. Ahmad learned to compose emails that were professional yet warm, striking a balance between respect and approachability. In customer interactions, he focused on empathetic and clear communication, essential in service-oriented roles.
Through observation, practice, and some mistakes along the way, Ahmad steadily became more skilled at using different communication styles. He learned to fluidly shift from the academic debates in his engineering classes to the customer-centric discussions at his job. This adaptability became his bridge across cultures, enabling him to connect with a diverse array of people effectively.
Understanding Questions:
1. What were some of the challenges Ahmad faced when he started attending university in Canada?
2. Describe the difference in language register that Ahmad observed between academic literature and conversations in the cafeteria.
3. How did Ahmad adapt his communication style at his part-time job?
4. What did Ahmad learn about the importance of intent and audience in communication through his group assignments and presentations?
5. How did Ahmad’s ability to adapt his communication style help him in both his academic and professional life?
• Eloquence (n): Fluent or persuasive speaking or writing
• Nuances (n): Subtle differences or distinctions in expression, meaning, or response.
• Linguistic (adj): Relating to language or linguistics.
• Professionalism (n): The competence or skill expected of a professional.
• Empathetic (adj): Showing an ability to understand and share the feelings of another.
• Multicultural (adj): Relating to or constituting several cultural or ethnic groups within a society.
