TIPS FOR READING
Full utilization of SQ3R usually leads
to enhanced understanding and retention of textbook and supplemental
reading assignments. Sometimes the assignment is unusually complex
or unclear. Here are some suggestions:
- Read it again, Sam. Re-reading is not always a waste
of time, especially with technical writings as found in the
sciences. After reading, leave it alone -sleep on it. When
you return to the assignment, look at it with fresh eyes.
- Be a word detective -look for essential words. Mentally
cross out all adjectives and adverbs and read the sentence
without them. Find the important words, which will usually
be verbs and nouns.
- Hold a mini-review. Stop at the end of each paragraph
and recite, in your own words, what you have read. (Or, write
a summary in the margin of your text.)
- Make some noise. Read a passage aloud several times,
each time emphasizing a different part of the sentence. (Imagine
that you are the author talking.)
- Change the channel. See if you can find an alternate
text in the library. Sometimes the same concept can be understood
better if you find it expressed another way.
- Become an expert. Pretend it's as clear as a bell
and explain it to yourself. Write out your explanation and
be amazed at what you really do know.
- Take a stand. Try standing when you are reading an
especially tough passage: hearing the words often makes them
more understandable; pacing back and forth can help to focus
concentration.
- Use your instructor. Remain up to date on your class
readings so that the clarifications provided in the lectures
can be fully realized. If the readings are not reviewed,
or questions remain, ask the instructor for clarification.
Odds are that you are not the only student with questions
and your question provides the instructor with important
feedback.
- Join a study group, get a tutor, or see your advisor.
Adapted from University of Maine's New Student Program materials
and D.B.Ellis's Becoming a Master Student, College Survival Inc.
MEOC6/96sd
MAINE EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITY CENTER
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