CL 106 Reading Skills

Before Reading

• Have clear reading goals
• Choose the right texts and have your reading list
• Identify the appropriate reading style e.g. SQ3R for intensive reading.
• Prepare to take notes; use appropriate NT/NM techniques

Types of Reading

1. Skimming

Reading for sake of getting the general picture or idea about the book, chapter, or passage before you can decide whether the source is worth reading E.g. look on titles, headings, subheadings, topic sentence, conclusion, figures, tables

2. Scanning

Reading for specific information like names, figures, dates, key words. It does not involve reading for detailed information. It’s used by people when looking for job adverts, etc.

3. Intensive reading

Reading for detailed information. It involves a concentrated approach to details and meaning. It involves reading every word to see their connections in the text.

5. Extensive reading

Refers to reading for enjoyment or to get general knowledge. Done to gain general understanding of what has been read.

6. Critical reading

Reading in order to get full u/standing and analyse the source to see its strength and weaknesses. E.g. to review/critique a book or a paper.