Page 173 - Keys to College Success

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How Developed Are Your Reading, Research, and Writing Skills?

For each statement, fill in the number that best describes how often it applies to you.
1 = never 2 = seldom 3 = sometimes 4 = often 5 = always

1. To improve my comprehension, I make choices about when and how I read. 1 2 3 4 5
2. Before reading a textbook chapter, I develop questions to guide me. 1 2 3 4 5

3. I turn materials into study tools by taking notes and highlighting key information. 1 2 3 4 5
4. I have an effective process for reading on-screen assignments and articles. 1 2 3 4 5

5. When I have a high volume of reading assignments, I prioritize and schedule them. 1 2 3 4 5
6. When I get a research or writing assignment, I go first to general references for an overview. 1 2 3 4 5

7. I don’t just rely on the Internet for research; I also consult library materials. 1 2 3 4 5
8. I carefully evaluate any online resource to determine if it is useful. 1 2 3 4 5

9. I use a specific process when I write a paper. 1 2 3 4 5
10. I do not copy anything from a written or online resource without a proper citation. 1 2 3 4 5

Each of the topics in these statements is covered in this chapter. Note those statements for which you filled in a 3 or lower. Skim
the chapter to see where those topics appear, and pay special attention to them as you read, learn, and apply new strategies.

REMEMBER: NO MATTER HOW DEVELOPED YOUR READING, RESEARCH, AND WRITING SKILLS ARE, YOU CAN IMPROVE THEM WITH EFFORT
AND PRACTICE.

WHAT SETS YOU UP FOR
reading comprehension?

You already know how to read, of course. However, most reading assignments in
college are a few notches up in complexity from what you may be used to. The reward
of a deep understanding of what you read in these materials—the kind of understand-
ing that both helps you remember information and allows you to use it—requires you
to risk a significant level of focus and commitment. How can you prepare to make the
most of your reading?

Know Why You Are Reading

When you get ready to read an assignment, first ask yourself: Why am I reading this?
What do I need to get out of it? A clear purpose will allow you to decide how much
time and effort to spend on your assignment, and will increase your engagement in the
6 material. Key 6.1 illustrates three reading purposes commonly in use for college materi-
CHAPTER 136 als. Depending on materials and expectations, you may have one or more for a single
assignment.