CRWT_Prelims

When we read, we read not only the text, but also the
W2: INTRODUCTION TO CRITICAL READING
mind of the person who wrote it. We learn more
perspectives in life the more we read. Hence, making
What is Critical Reading? reading a habit widens our horizons and allows us to
Being a critical reader does not require you to be critical always look at the bigger picture from a vantage point.
about everything you read. There is no need to find fault
and argue with the author on all things that you think are It is needless to say that making critical reading a habit
faulty, unconventional and questionable. What does does not only require you to read every day but also to
critical reading mean, then? absorb as much as you can, to integrate the valuable
ones to your own principles and values, and to adopt the
In hindsight, critical reading is explained as the manner attitude necessary to keep yourself inspired in reading.
of engaging yourself in what you read by asking
questions like, “what does the author mean?” “what How Reading Develops
message is being conveyed in the text” or “what is the Naturally, reading starts with the understanding of the
argument raised?” The process of critical reading letters, words, and symbols used in the text. Children
involves raising a reasoned, logical and balanced read and understand at face value because they are in
argument that analyzes and evaluates the text. Thus, the process of familiarizing from a linguistic point of view.
being a critical reader means that you have achieved a As they grow older and their academic and intellectual
higher level of comprehension, have stayed levels go up, the reading process becomes more
open-minded all throughout, and have continued to learn complicated. They learn that reading is not just
and embrace knowledge and wisdom outside your own identifying letters, words, and symbols, but also
standards and beliefs. comprehending the meaning behind those words.
Learning is no longer done at the surface. Connotation is
To critically read a text is to apply your discretion to what added to denotation. Figurative meaning is combined
you are reading. You do not take everything you read at with literal meaning. In a span of several years, reading
face value. You will be faced with the writer’s insights becomes more worthwhile yet more challenging.
and interpretations when reading texts for academic
purposes. Expectedly, different writers have their own Eventually, we learn to add new words to our vocabulary
points of view and biases. For this reason, critically on a daily basis, and use them in our own sentences.
examining everything you read to check for intentional We start challenging what textbooks call “facts” as we
and unintentional omissions, grounds for arguments, and adopt a skeptic attitude, which leads to curiosity and
inconsistencies is of utmost importance. You will be later on, discovery. We start asking and start answering
expected to understand and interpret different viewpoints questions. Finally, we learn to integrate reading and
in the academe, which are important in making your own learning in the truest sense.
judgments.
However, as we progress down the academic path and
Reading critically means reflecting on: absorb more bits of knowledge and perspectives, our
●​ Content of the text: the reader should be able principles, values and beliefs also start to crumble, some
to interpret and explain the main points of the of which are permanently changed through the influence
text on his or her own words of other sources and people. The wide gamut of
●​ Descriptions in the text: the reader should be information available to us makes thinking more complex
able to create his or her own examples based as we have to consider more things than usual. Our
from the described key points and be able to accumulating experience also adds challenge, although
compare them with other texts of the same topic these inevitable factors are necessary for learning and
●​ Interpretation of the text: the reader should be progression.
able to objectively analyze the text in parts and
in whole This process of transitioning from mere data gathering to
a deeper level of consciousness that involves analysis
To summarize, critical reading allows a reader to and evaluation is crucial for our own personal
understand the content of the text, the descriptions development and professional advancement. The more
contained, and the interpretation of the author in order to we develop our reading capacity, the more proficient we
scrutinize the elements involved, including the style, become in accepting and rejecting what we read. This,
composition and language. by nature, is practicing critical reading to the best of our
abilities.
CRITICAL READING AS A DAILY ROUTINE
The Goal of Reading
Reading takes a lot of time, especially in higher People read every day for different purposes. Some
education where evaluation and analysis are staple parts have deeper purposes that root from critical reasons, like
of the reading process. This fact makes reading tedious when reading for academic and professional purposes.
and cumbersome for most people, which makes Some, on the other hand, read to be entertained, to pass
studying less motivating and effective. However, reading time, or simply to try to learn new things without
for academic purposes need not be challenging. It is, pinpointing any particular form of knowledge.
and should always be, an active process which leads to
the development of the reader. This is bound to happen Most of the time, we read factual information, or at least,
only when the reader becomes constantly conscious of try to, amidst the world of fake news and unverified
the nature and content of the text, and everything that information on the internet.
the author implies behind the text.
We may also read fiction in order to be entertained; Another way to maintain a healthy attitude in reading is
depending upon the reader, a level of interpretation may by emotionally detaching yourself from the text.
be applied, and if reading fiction as part of an English Subjective reading clouds judgment. In fact, many
Literature degree, then analysis of the author’s writing authors try to influence readers by using their own
style, motives, and other elements is imperative. A lot of emotions against them. Advisably, one has to maintain
people read newspapers in print or online. They do it to objectivity when reading as this allows a person to
be informed. However, since bias and partisan politics analyze the text using logic and not feelings.
are widespread in mass media, opinions are sometimes
delivered as factual statements. This is damaging to Differentiating Facts from Interpretations
learning as influence is sometimes brought not by value For non-critical readers, a text is a source of facts.
but by popularity. Texts are, then, memorized in order to absorb these
so-called facts. When studying history, they believe the
One example of this is the proliferation of fake news as book that describes events the clearest For critical
told by some social media influencers who click before readers, on the other hand, a text only provides the
they think. This is irresponsible but remains tolerated by author’s own interpretation of facts. This interpretation
many people until now. Thus, the goal of reading should may be considered valid or invalid. Hence, critical
be to learn, not to be updated with what famous people readers recognize not only what the text says, but also
are talking about. When reading for academic purposes, how the text discusses the topic.
students usually observe two main goals: first is to learn
and develop, and second is to pass the subject. Sadly, When studying history, they gather as much information
many students only aim to pass and not to learn and as possible, stitch the different interpretations together,
develop, thinking that everything is fine for as long as and validate the ones that are supported by logical or
they pass the subject. What they do not realize is that scientific explanations. They learn to link information
this mindset and attitude may only be helpful to a certain from different sources to create a timeline where the
degree when still studying, not when venturing into the past, present and future connect with each other.
real world as a professional. Furthermore, this mindset is
the reason why not all students who graduate display
W3: THE NATURE OF THE TEXT
competitiveness and efficiency at work.

Lastly, many students read to memorize, and not read to Knowing more about the nature of the text prepares you
comprehend, analyze, and interpret the text. There is better in understanding the topic, following references,
memorization but with very minimal learning. The raising arguments and flowing with the discussion.
knowledge is forgotten when the memorized words and
sentences are also forgotten. This is the reason why What questions should you raise?
memorization is considered as the lowest form of -​ What is the title? Does it reflect the topic?
intelligence. -​ What details, style and arguments do you
expect?
Adopting a Healthy Attitude in Reading -​ What do you currently know about the topic? Are
Usually, we find unfamiliar topics, styles and languages there gaps and grey areas with your current
hard to follow. This is expected even for professionals. knowledge of the topic?
Consequently, this can also be disappointing and -​ Is there any need for background reading prior
demotivating. Who wants to burden themselves to reading the current text in order to make
anyway? Sooner or later, the person who experienced understanding faster and more fluid?
reading as a challenge may quit the habit altogether.
Development is then delayed or denied completely. In This information is often reflected on the cover, preface
this regard, critical reading is less challenging as there is and table of content of the book. For stories, the
no need to focus on the text verbatim. There is no need synopsis at the back can give you the information that
to pay attention to all details as well as not every detail in you need.
a text possesses value.
Who are the stakeholders?
In critical reading, you are encouraged to learn meaning -​ Who is in concern in the issue?
and identify value rather than absorb everything at face -​ Who controls the result of the issue?
value. Being able to follow the flow of the story and -​ Who are the key decision makers or key
predict what’s bound to happen by drawing conclusions contributors in creating and resolving the issue?
and making inferences is given priority over being able -​ Who is affected by the issue?
to familiarize yourself with the specific details.
Quipping yourself with prior knowledge before reading
In order to keep a positive attitude when reading, one the text can help you identify the biases of the authors,
has to equip him or herself with tools that make learning and possibly the unintentional errors.
more convenient and less tiresome. Make a quality
dictionary available for access at all times just in case What do you know about the author?
you encounter unfamiliar terminologies that cannot be -​ What is the background of the author?
understood with context clues alone.There are hundreds -​ What are his or her goals in writing the text?
of printed dictionaries to choose from, although
downloading updated applications and accessing them It is possible that the text is no longer consistent with the
online are now more convenient. One has to keep in author’s prior works or statements, so you need to
mind, though, that denotative and connotative meanings consider some information:
may be used in the same text by the same author. -​ When was the text published?
Hence, relying on literal meaning is not always helpful. -​ Where was it published?
-​ Who was the publisher?
This information can help the reader understand the 1. Prioritize reading
reason behind the inconsistency. The text may no longer It is understandable for everyone to get busy at times,
be updated or may be the updated one. The place of making reading a more challenging task. However,
publication may also prompt the author to slightly alter putting reading atop your priority list by allotting a time
the content to fit in the culture of the target readers in a specific schedule makes hitting your goal more realistic.
particular area. Sometimes, the publisher also influences You can also create a timetable to ensure your progress.
the creative direction of the book, so the author might
write things that he or she does not fully agree with, all of 2. Find informative books of good value.
the sake of marketability. This happens not only in the Good books are not merely entertaining. They are worth
publishing industry but also in the music industry where reading for their substance— for the golden knowledge
artistry is sacrificed for commercial appeal. and wisdom they possess that can help you achieve
your goals in life, whether it is in school, at work or at
ACADEMIC AND NON-ACADEMIC TEXTS home. Finding them can be challenging, though,
especially nowadays that choices abound, some of
Learning how to separate academic texts from which showcase low quality due to substandard editing
non-academic texts is an imperative for students as this or self-publication. What you should do at this point is
knowledge is needed in researching, reviewing and not just look at titles or topics, but on the author’s
passing assessments. But how do they differ from each credibility, the reputation of the publishing company, the
other exactly? curation and endorsements involved, and to a certain
extent, the marketability of the book in its niche.
Academic articles are written by experts in a particular Favorites and bestsellers do not spell quality all the time,
field. They are not self published. Rather, the manuscript but at least you can have an idea of the market’s
goes through a series of editing, typesetting and quality perception towards them.
checking performed by other experts in a peer-review
setting. The language used here is formal, sometimes To experience the best results, you may want to start
containing jargon and other technical stylistic choices. reading books that genuinely pique your curiosity or are
The authors are well represented in academic articles as aligned with your already existing hobbies, skills,
their names, credentials and affiliations build the text’s interests, or field of specialization. It is also
credibility and reputation. The references are also recommended for readers to set a ―reading schedule‖
compiled to support the veracity of all information every day, which may last from 30 minutes to several
included in the text. Lastly, academic articles are hours. You have to keep in mind, though, that you are
considered as primary sources as they have been reading because you have a goal and not because you
scientifically and systematically researched and written. have a schedule to fill. Doing the latter might prove
They also undergo a strict peer review process, which cumbersome and counterproductive.
sometimes takes years to finish.
3. Have your reading habit planned.
Non-academic articles, on the other hand, are written You basically add one more chore to your already busy
for the mass public. They are published quickly and can day when you set a schedule for reading on a daily
be written by anyone. Authorship is not limited to basis. Hence, you also have to identify one or more
credentials, writing ability or substance, as fame, with or time-wasting activities that do not pose much value to
without credibility, sometimes suffices as qualification for your life. These unproductive, usually unhealthy
writing non-academic articles. There are also times activities, should be removed from your routines until
when creativity is favored over credibility. Because these only the productive ones remain. Designating your own
texts are non-scientific and non-systematic, references reading spot in the house and setting up a mini-library
are not required and consistency is a choice, not a where you can place all of your books also help in
requirement. Informality may be preferred over formality developing the habit. Nonetheless, you should avoid
since these texts normally target the masses and not the reading in stressful places, like the workplace, as you
experts and professionals. A reference list is optional as might subconsciously link stress with reading later on.
well. Non-academic articles are considered as
secondary sources and should never be prioritized over If planning your reading habit in a time-bound manner
academic articles as references. Most of your references seems impractical, you may always set a quantity-based
should also come from academic articles, not reading activity instead. This will require you to read a
non-academic articles to uphold credibility. specific number of pages on a daily basis regardless of
the time allotment, which is ideal for people who read
slowly or are very time-conscious. Lastly, have all your
W4: STEPS IN CRITICAL READING
reading essentials prepared alongside your books.
Markers, pens, bookmarks, what have you, should be
Developing the Habit within reach when you need to take down notes, jot
In order to make critical reading a habit, one needs to down ideas from what you read and plan your next
have the genuine desire to learn and discover new reading
things. There should be a compelling reason to stick with
it as a habit, and that is to develop oneself and achieve 4. Do not limit your reading habit
competitiveness in the future. Read as much as you can, as often as you want. Don’t
limit your reading time to a few minutes per day when
There are different practical strategies to develop critical you have more time to spare. Eventually, you might
reading as a habit. Anyone can practice them, and with notice that your writing skills also improve due to the
time and diligence, the transformation of the habit that new concepts, styles, vocabulary and information that
you desire is bound to happen. you constantly learn.
5. Be a morning reader Step 3: List down questions.
Experts recommend reading early in the morning Connect the content of the text to your research
because the mind is clearer and the body is most questions
relaxed at this time. This makes concentration easier, ●​ Is this text relevant to my research question?
which improves your learning capacity by miles. In fact, ●​ If so, list questions about the content of the
the effect would still be beneficial even if you try to wake article or report.
up earlier than usual. Anyway, waking up earlier is only
bound to be challenging during the first few days. Your Step 4: Take down notes
biological clock will adjust automatically once you make Follow these tips when jotting down reading notes:
this a habit. ●​ Be concise and write on your own words
●​ Use bullet points
6. Try speed reading ●​ Pay attention to citation and references
Speed reading allows you to cover and finish books ●​ Take note of the arguments raised
much faster without sacrificing comprehension. This ●​ Summarize the major parts: the introduction, the
does not mean reading every word and every sentence body and the conclusion
so quickly that comprehension is no longer happening. ●​ Record important quoted materials and the page
What this means is you target specific information within numbers that you may have to read again later
the text, apply reading patterns throughout the pages, on.
and skip unnecessary parts to make reading faster. You ●​ Write down keywords of any relevant information
will learn the different speed reading strategies in the to your questions
coming weeks, but you may opt to practice practical These notes will become your summary of the text,
steps for now which you can use as reference when writing your report
or project later on.
Start by removing all the elements that distract you and
turn off your computer or television. Then pick a book, Step 5: Evaluate the text
get a timer, start the timer, read 10 pages and record Identify and evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of
your results. Take a quick look at the title, introduction, the text using these steps:
section headers and the conclusion. Do not read every ●​ Ask questions on the value of the research
word, skip articles like ―a‖, ―the‖ etc., stop mouthing evaluation questions.
words or speaking them in your head, try to take in ○​ Has the article/report fulfilled its
whole sentences and paragraphs and do not pause purpose?
between paragraphs. Use one of your fingers or a pen to ○​ Is the argument clearly asserted and
guide your eyes and set your pace. The next stage is to supported by evidence?
set 20 minutes per day to practice speed reading. ○​ Is the research valid? (Sufficient,
appropriate, adequate, objective, valid
THE CRITICAL READING PROCESS methodology?)
○​ Has the argument been developed
Step 1: Analyze the critical reading components logically?
Identify the components then ponder on them: ○​ Does it present solutions based on
●​ Underline instructional words, e.g. discuss, evidence?
explain, identify, justify ○​ Are recommendations appropriate to the
●​ Mark apparent keywords and key phrases purpose?
●​ Be mindful of the organizational patterns used ○​ In what ways does the article/report
(Compare and contrast, cause and effect, list, advance our knowledge of a particular
spatial, chronological, etc.) issue?
●​ Evaluate the validity and requirement of the ○​ What assumptions underlie the
questions research? Are they reasonable?
●​ Brainstorm the question: ●​ Ask questions on the quality of the information
○​ Write down all related information ●​ Fill in the evaluation section
○​ Link the details that you know ●​ Using your answers to the above questions in
○​ Determine knowledge gaps steps 1 and 2:
○​ What are the strengths of the text?
Step 2: Practice pre-reading activities ○​ What are the weaknesses?
Have the text scanned for the following details:
●​ Who is the author/s? Step 6: Mind map from memory
○​ What are his or her credentials? Make a rough mind map from memory: test what you
○​ What is his or her reputation? can recall from your reading of the text.
○​ Is the writer known for bias? ●​ Make headings of the main ideas and note
●​ What is the nature of the text? supporting evidence in dot points.
○​ Is it current? ●​ Include your evaluation: the strengths and
○​ Is it authoritative? weaknesses.
○​ Is it purely subjective, purely objective, ●​ Identify gaps in your memory.
or a combination of both?
Highlight main ideas and keywords: Step 7: Consolidate your knowledge
●​ Read the title, synopsis for stories and abstract Summarize the text in preparation for writing your
for research, section headings and subheadings, assignment
and graphical representations. ●​ Make another mind map drawing on your notes
●​ Read the introduction, the first few paragraphs, and your rough mind map.
and the conclusion at the end. ●​ Make headings and note the supporting
evidence in dot points.
 ●​ Include your evaluation. 4. Organizing Your Notes
●​ Be creative: use color and arrows; make it easy Notes are of no use to you if you cannot find them when
to visualize. you need to, and spending a lot of time sifting through
●​ Highlight the ideas you may want to use for your piles of papers is a waste of time. It is therefore
assignment. important to ensure that your notes are well-organized
●​ Identify areas for further research. and you can find what you want when you need it.

EFFECTIVE STEPS FOR NOTE-TAKING

W5: READING STRATEGIES FOR CRITICAL
THINKING
There is no magic formula for taking notes when
reading. You simply have to find out what works best for
you. Your note-taking skills will develop with practice and Critical thinking requires critical reading to develop
as you realize the benefits. This section is designed to because a huge part of you is influenced by what you
help you get started. read and hear. Up to 80% of knowledge is learned
through the eyes, and reading plays the biggest role.
1. Highlighting and Emphasizing
Highlighting key words or phrases in text will help you: 1. Improve your vocabulary.
●​ Focus your attention on what you are reading – Having a wider vocabulary makes comprehension
and make it easy to see key points when easier. However, expanding one’s vocabulary, especially
re-reading. for those who use English as a second or foreign
●​ Think more carefully about the key concepts and language, may not be a simple task. These practical tips
ideas in the text, the bits that are worth can help you do this without having to spend hours
highlighting. reading hundreds of words in the dictionary each day.
●​ See immediately whether you have already read ●​ Read a wide range of texts to give yourself a
pages or sections of text. varied vocabulary background.
Make a glossary on a separate sheet (or document) of ●​ Have a dictionary at all times. An
notes, so you can easily refer and update it as English-Filipino dictionary is useful, but
necessary. Write descriptions of the terms in your own remember that there are English words that
words to further encourage learning. cannot be directly translated directly into Filipino.
Hence, relying on Webster's is a better option,
2. Making Written Notes especially when studying technical
Although highlighting is a quick way of emphasizing key terminologies. You can also install a dictionary
points, it is no substitute for taking proper notes. application on your mobile phone and computer
for more convenient access anytime.
There are two main elements that you need to include in ●​ Never assume the meaning of a word that
your notes: you are unfamiliar with. If you hesitate, then
a.​ The content of your reading, usually through look it up.
brief summaries or paraphrasing, plus a few ●​ Keep a vocabulary journal where you write
well-chosen quotes (with page numbers); and down all words that you learn on a daily or
b.​ Your reaction to the content, which may include weekly basis. This can be a notebook or a set
an emotional reaction and also questions that of index cards. This is really helpful, especially
you feel it raises. when memorizing jargons often used in your
It can be helpful to separate these two physically to industry or field of study. Write the definition in
ensure that you include both (see box). your own words and create a sentence using the
word that relates to your life. The more you
Your notes may also take various forms and style, for associate the word to your life, the better the
example: recall.
●​ Linear, or moving from one section to the next ●​ Learn at least three words a day and try
on the page in a logical way, using headings and using them in a sentence. Small actions can
subheadings; take you a long way.
●​ Diagrammatic, using boxes and flowcharts to ●​ Find opportunities to apply the learned
help you move around the page; and words in actual conversations. The more
●​ Patterns, such as mind maps, which allow a frequently you apply the learned words, the
large amount of information to be included in a more familiar they can get. Do not force it,
single page, but rely on you to remember the though, just for the sake of application because
underlying information. it might sound awkward to those you talk with if
the usage is improper or the venue is not
3. Reviewing and Revising Your Notes applicable.
In particular, you may want to:
●​ Use headings or different sheets (or documents) 2. Mind your reading comprehension skills
to separate different themes and ideas; Monitoring your reading comprehension means being
●​ Use brightly colored pens or flags to highlight conscious of your recalls. You should be aware of the
important points in your notes. You may find it words, phrases or sentences that you do not understand
useful to have a simple system of color-coding, fully or confuse you. As you do, you need to challenge
using different colors for particular themes or your comprehension for looking for context clues and
issues; and inducing analytical thinking. Posing questions for you to
●​ Note where your opinions changed, and why. answer does not fail in this sense. You may also follow
the tips described here to monitor your reading
comprehension.
 ●​ Try to recall and explain the key points in ●​ Avoid rereading as much as possible. Pay
your own words after each section. The more attention to your concentration so that rereading
you can recall, the better the comprehension will becomes unnecessary. The habit of rereading
be. Break your reading up into smaller sections subconsciously makes you lose focus on your
using the subheadings and again recite. first try.
Remember, concentration plays a large part in ●​ You should never read at a rate that is slower
your ability to comprehend so assess your than your average rate. Research shows a
focus. correlation between reading rate and
●​ Avoid reading at a slower pace just to comprehension. Slower speed does not
compensate for your comprehension level. guarantee a better understanding of the
Research tells us that reading at a slower speed material. In fact, research implies that increasing
often interferes with comprehension because it the rate of speed often results in higher
forces us to resort to word for word reading. comprehension.
Furthermore, let your comprehension level
naturally catch up with your reading speed, and 4. Apply The SQ3R Method—Survey, Question, Read,
not the other way around. Recite and Review
●​ Use a line guide to keep focused on the text This is an active reading method that, although will seem
and avoid having your eyes wander around. It time consuming at the beginning, can still enhance your
can be a ruler, an index card or your finger. reading comprehension and learning efficiency.

3. Improve Your Reading Speed Survey:

You can learn to increase your speed by practicing the ●​ Scan over the table of contents of a new book to
tips discussed here once you understand your present have a clear understanding of its content and
reading rate. plan your reading in advance. Is the professor
●​ Keep in mind that the reading pace depends following the format of the book or is he/she
on the type of material you are reading and changing how the order of the chapters will be
your goal. An adventure novel may allow for a read? How much time is he/she allotting per
quick rate whereas a science text may demand chapter?
a steadier rate. The type of reading that you ●​ Survey the entire chapter before you start
need to do also dictates the reading rate. If you reading so that you become familiar with what
are reading for detail, you must read at a rate for will be presented and how much time you need.
comprehension. If you are reviewing, reading for ●​ Look at the title and all subtitles to know what
general main ideas then skimming and using a the chapter is about and how it is broken up into
faster rate is appropriate. parts. Label major headings and subheadings to
●​ Proactively focus on 2-4 words at a time show the relationship between topics. You may
instead of fixating on a per word reading also want to create your own outline based on
basis. Increasing my/ reading rate will/ help me your syllabus for easier time management and
maximize/ my study time. This is basically like planning of tasks.
trying to read phrase for phrase instead of word ●​ Look at the end of the chapter aids, such as
for word. questions, summaries, etc. This will help you
●​ Read with your eyes and mind. Pronouncing select the main ideas as you read. This can also
the words while you read slows down your be a great help when trying to read in advance
reading speed because it forces your focus on for future discussions.
each word rather than on groups of words. Also ●​ Read the introduction and/or first paragraph first.
remember that many formal venues for reading, This will tell you the purpose of the chapter and
like the library, require silence all the time. will give you an idea of its importance in relation
●​ Practice makes perfect. The more you read, to your course.
the more proficient you become. Practice will ●​ Read the last paragraph. This will summarize
increase speed, vocabulary, comprehension, the text and can make understanding of the
and knowledge base. The challenge is only hard entire text easier and faster.
to deal with at the beginning. ●​ Be mindful of the different terminologies used.
●​ Force yourself to read at a faster rate for Bring out index cards and create a terminology
short periods of time. Challenging yourself index as you read. The author might have used
from time to time will get you used to reading these words to familiarize you with future topics,
faster. You can challenge yourself to read a so pay attention.
certain number of pages per hour.
●​ Go at a speed that is uncomfortable but you Question:
are still comprehending the material. Reading ●​ Turn the subheadings into questions before
at an uncomfortable speed can be challenging proceeding to read so that your mind is actively
and stressful at the beginning, but as with any looking for answers rather than passively
new task, doing this daily is bound to improve reading along. This habit also helps you develop
you. After practicing this tip for a few days, critical thinking skills in the process.
retime yourself reading at an average rate and ●​ Create questions from information printed in the
you should see a speed rate increase. The rate margins. You may also highlight keywords or key
increase will only continue if you practice this phrases for future references.
technique. Check for comprehension as your ●​ Create questions for each graph presented. You
reading rate increases to ensure that you are might need to go back to these data once you
increasing at appropriate increments to enhance review. Also remember that teachers usually
learning. refer to graphs when creating tests or when
discussing.
 ●​ Try writing out the questions so that you can ●​ Works best with non-fiction or factual texts
periodically look at the questions and stop to see ●​ Speed ranges from 700-1000 words per minute
if you can recall the information. You can also
use these questions when reviewing in the This speed reading process takes place while reading
future. and allows you to look for details in addition to the main
ideas. Many people think that it is a haphazard process
Read: of placing the eyes wherever they fall. However, to skim
●​ Start reading only when you can concentrate effectively, there has to be a structure but you don’t read
and commit to it. It is advised to read while everything. Skimming will help you locate the information
sitting rather than lying down as the latter makes quickly. It will also increase the amount of usable
you very relaxed, sometimes sleepy or languid. material you obtain for your research.
●​ You must locate the main idea of each
paragraph. Watching out for keywords, such as Suppose you have an exam in a few days. You need to
proper nouns, numbers, italicized foreign terms, review the material you learned, but you don’t want to
jargon, etc., might help you with this. reread everything. By skimming, you can quickly locate
○​ Identify the topic. the information you haven’t mastered yet and study only
○​ Find the main idea. that material. What you read is more important than what
○​ Look for the supporting details you leave out. Let’s say you are doing research on a
○​ Underline the main idea long chapter or a web site. By reading the first few
paragraphs in detail, you will get a good idea of what
Recite: information will be discussed.
●​ Take time to paraphrase what you read out loud
while reading. It helps you avoid plagiarism and -​ Once you know where the reading is headed,
helps you remember the main idea at the same you can begin to read only the first sentence of
time. each paragraph. Also called topic sentences,
●​ Try to associate read material with life they give you the main idea of the paragraph. If
experience. You can use mnemonic devices for you do not get the main idea in the topic
this. sentence or if the paragraph greatly interests
you, then you may want to skim more.
Review: -​ At the end of each topic sentence, your eyes
The more you review and recite, the better the recall. It should drop down through the rest of the
actually makes your study time more efficient when this paragraph, looking for important pieces of
process becomes a consistent study habit. information, such as names, dates, or events.
●​ Review starts with organization. Make sure -​ Continue to read only topic sentences until you
that all notes and handouts are inserted in date are near the end.
order. -​ Stop skimming in the last few paragraphs as
●​ Review your notes and questions created for they may contain the conclusion or summary.
the daily lesson or chapter. -​ If you feel you are grasping the main ideas while
○​ Review the highlighted areas of your skimming, then you are skimming correctly.
text. Remember that your overall comprehension will
○​ Review the comments you made in the be lower than if you read in detail.
text as you read.
○​ Recite the main points of each section Ask yourself these questions to decide if you want to use
of the chapter. skimming. If you answer yes to any of these, then
○​ Review your index card file. skimming is a useful tool for you:
●​ Develop study aids like mnemonics for -​ Is this material non-fiction?
material you must memorize. You can use -​ \Do I have a lot to read and only a small amount
association, acrostics, acronyms or whatever of time?
you find comfortable with and easy to remember. -​ Do I already know something about this?
●​ Create an outline from your texts. This will act -​ Can any of the material be skipped?
as a study guide for the exam.
●​ Recite the information daily to ensure 6. Do Scanning
automatic recall and true learning. Recite the What is scanning?
information in your own words for better ●​ Passing the vision speedily over a selection of
comprehension. text to find specific words or phrases
●​ Check and recheck the information where ●​ Skipping over large portions of texts to find what
you hesitate or are not able to recall details. you are looking form
●​ Speed ranges above 1000 words per minute
5. Do Skimming ●​ Covers more area than skimming within the
What is skimming? same amount of time
●​ Speedy reading for general meaning ●​ Does not require reading of entire texts
●​ Lets your eyes skip over sentences or phrases ●​ May be limited to specific information and may
that contain details not help the reader understand the general ideA
●​ Allows you to concentrate on identifying the
central or main points Skimming vs. Scanning
●​ Pre-views a selection of text prior to detailed Skimming - Meant to identify main points without
reading identifying the details (Covers 700-1000 wpm)
●​ Refreshes understanding of a text following Scanning - Meant to identify specific details without
detailed reading understanding the main points (Covers more than 1000
●​ Speed reading at basic level wpm)
For this speed reading process to be successful, you need to understand how your material is structured as well as
comprehend what you read so you can locate the specific information you need.
●​ Establishing your purpose, locating the appropriate material, and knowing how the information is
structured before you start scanning is essential. The material you scan is typically arranged in the following
ways: alphabetically, chronologically, non-alphabetically, by category, or textually. Sometimes information is
located within the written paragraphs of text, also known as a textual sense, as in an encyclopedia entry.
●​ Use your hands when scanning. Using your hand or finger is extremely helpful in focusing your attention and
keeping your place while scanning a column of material.
●​ Use peripheral vision when scanning. When your hand moves down a list of names, you see not only the name
your finger is pointing to, but also the names above and below. Let your eyes work for you when searching for
information.
●​ Keep the concept of key words in mind while scanning. Your purpose will determine the key words. Suppose
you are looking for the time a train leaves from Pasay City for Quezon City. The key words to keep in mind are
“from Pasay City” and “to Quezon City.” If you are looking for the cost of a computer printer with the code number
L360, the key word to locate in a list of many printers is “L360.”

When is the right time to scan?

You scan when your aim is to find specific pieces of information. If you were doing the research for a report, you could
scan the index of books, web sites, and reference materials.

The most important benefit of scanning is its ability to help you become a more flexible reader. Scanning adds another
high gear to your reading. Because you may be used to reading every word and may be uncomfortable leaving some
words out, you need to give yourself permission to overlook some words by skimming, scanning, and skipping material
according to your reading purpose.

7. Make Inferences
Making inferences is a comprehension strategy used by proficient readers to “read between the lines,” make connections,
and draw conclusions about the text’s meaning and purpose. Inference means concluding based on knowledge and
experience and the ability to understand implicit messages conveyed by a writer based on the reader’s schema or
background knowledge.
●​ Take two or more details from the reading and see if you can draw a conclusion. Remember, making an
inference is not just making a wild guess. You need to make a judgment that can be supported.
●​ When you are asked an inference question, go back over the reading and look for hints within the text,
such as words that are directly related to the question you may be asked or words that indicate opinion.

PPT CONTENTS

W3 THE NATURE OF THE TEXT

the activity of arranging printed text and images on the
page when preparing a book, newspaper, etc. for
printing: It means changing the layout and the text ●​ Non-academic texts have a longer year of
elements in accordance with the policies of the recency when citing texts.
publishing company. ●​ Non-academic texts have a longer range of
validity (ex. not affected by the cruciality of time
Who are the stakeholders? frame, no need to be revised or updated yet)?
-​ Who is in concern in the issue?
-​ Who controls the result of the issue?
-​ Who are the key decision makers or key NATURE OF THE TEXT
contributors in creating and resolving the issue?
-​ Who is affected by the issue? ●​ Topic
-​ Ex: Participants, researchers, academic ○​ What is the topic?
institutions, regulatory bodies, government Does it reflect the topic?
agencies, funding agencies. ●​ Arguments
○​ What details, style and arguments do
Digital Object Identifiers (DOI) were invented to give you expect? What do you currently
each electronic, or digital, item a unique, persistent know about the topic? Are there gaps
identifier. Any digital object can be assigned a DOI and grey areas with your current
number, for example: knowledge of the topic?
●​ References
*academic journal articles, research reports, ○​ Is there any need for background
governmental reports, data sets, books, conference reading prior to reading the current text
proceedings, code, and media in order to make understanding faster
and more fluid?
ISSN ●​ Flow
ISBN are numbers used to identify editions of books.
ISSN are used for serials (such as journals, magazines *In reading articles or texts, we should check its cover,
and newspapers). preface, table of contents, and synopsis.
Check: ●​ Feedback and Recommendations: Reviewers
1. Bionote (Background of the Author) provide detailed feedback to the editor, which
●​ What are his goals in writing the text? may include:
Example: Annette Boaz is professor of ○​ Accepting the manuscript as is
healthcare research at the center for health and ○​ Requesting revisions before
social care research at St. George’s University resubmission
of London and Kingston University London. She ○​ Recommending rejection if the paper
is interested in research use, implementation does not meet the required standards
and improvement, and stakeholder engagement. ●​ Editor’s Decision: Based on the reviewers'
Together with others, she wrote the book that feedback, the editor makes a decision:
works now about the interactions between ○​ Accept: The manuscript is accepted for
policy, practice, and research. publication.
○​ Revise and Resubmit: The author is
2. Publishing Details asked to make revisions based on the
●​ When was the text published? feedback and resubmit the manuscript.
●​ Where was it published? ○​ Reject: The manuscript is not accepted
●​ Who was the publisher? for publication.
○​ Revision: If revisions are requested, the
author revises the manuscript to
ACADEMIC VS NON-ACADEMIC ARTICLES address the reviewers’ comments and
concerns. The revised manuscript may
Academic texts are written by experts in a particular go through additional rounds of review.
field. They are not self-published. Rather, the manuscript ●​ Final Decision: After reviewing the revised
goes through a series of editing, typesetting and quality manuscript (if applicable), the editor makes a
checking performed by other experts in a peer review final decision. If accepted, the manuscript moves
setting. The language used here is formal, sometimes on to the publication stage.
containing jargon and other technical stylistic choices. ●​ Publication: The manuscript is edited for
publication, formatted, and then published in the
Ex. dissertation, thesis, research paper, conference journal or presented at the conference.
paper, academic journal, and textbook. ●​ Post-Publication: After publication, the
research is available for further scrutiny and
discussion within the scientific community. Other
researchers may cite or critique the work,
contributing to the ongoing evaluation of its
validity and impact.
Academic articles - The authors are well represented in
academic articles as their names, credentials and Non-academic articles - are written for the mass public.
affiliations build the text’s credibility and reputation. The They are published quickly and can be written by
references are also compiled to support the veracity of anyone. Authorship is not limited to credentials, writing
all information included in the text. ability or substance, as fame, with or without credibility,
sometimes suffices as qualification for writing
non-academic articles. There are also times when
●​ Submission: An author submits their creativity is favored over credibility. Non-academic
manuscript or research paper to a journal or articles are considered as secondary sources and
conference. should never be prioritized over academic articles as
●​ Initial Screening: The journal's editorial team references. Most of your references should also come
performs an initial review to determine if the from academic articles, not non-academic articles to
submission fits within the journal’s scope and uphold credibility.
meets basic quality standards. This step also
checks for issues such as plagiarism. Non-academic texts
●​ Assignment to Reviewers: If the manuscript Because these texts are non-scientific and
passes the initial screening, the editor assigns it non-systematic, references are not required and
to one or more experts (peers) in the relevant consistency is a choice, not a requirement. Informality
field. These reviewers are usually researchers may be preferred over formality since these texts
with expertise related to the manuscript’s topic. normally target the masses and not the experts and
●​ Review Process: The reviewers evaluate the professionals. A reference list is optional as well.
manuscript based on various criteria, including:
○​ Originality: Is the research novel or does
it provide new insights?
○​ Methodology: Are the research methods
appropriate and rigorously applied?
○​ Results and Analysis: Are the results
presented clearly and analyzed
correctly?
○​ Relevance: Does the research
contribute meaningfully to the field?
○​ Clarity: Is the writing clear,
well-organized, and free of errors?