Read the title and ask
what you can learn from the title.
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Read the first sentence;
some writers state the purpose here.
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Read the last sentence;
some writers repeat the main idea once more.
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Skim the entire
selection, looking at headings, illustrations, and captions.
Find
the main ideas
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Find the topic
sentence. This is often the first sentence of a paragraph and is followed by
sentences that support or explain it. Sometimes it is at the end of the
paragraph with the supporting details coming first.
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Understand paragraph
structure. Is the purpose to inform, define, explain, illustrate, or
persuade?
Recognize words in context
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Some words have multiple
meanings.
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Some words can be
defined by synonyms or antonyms that appear near them.
Distinguish fact from opinion
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Facts can be proven.
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Opinions cannot be
proven, and they express personal beliefs or judgments.
Keep
events in order
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Paying attention to the
sequence of events helps you to follow what is happening and predict what will
happen next.
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Signal words that show
sequence are often are used by authors. Some examples are: until, next,
before, in the beginning.
Make
correct inferences
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Correct inferences are
supported by evidence. Inferences fill in the information that a writer may
not state directly.
Source: Timed Readings Plus in Science published by Jamestown Education
 Learn about
Critical Reading
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