Page 45 - Starting Strong: English Essentials

Skimming

Skimming is one of the useful reading techniques. It aims to help readers obtain the gist, which is
the general idea of the passage, not specific detail. You can use the skimming technique when you
want to identify the main ideas in the text.

When you use the skimming technique you don’t read the whole text word for word. Skimming

involves moving your eyes rapidly over a passage and selecting only keywords. Keywords are words

that are frequently stated in the passage.

Follow these steps:

➔ Move your eyes quickly over the whole text.

➔ Read the title of the passage (if any).

➔ Read the first and last sentence of each paragraph.

➔ Look for the keywords.

➔ Stop and quickly read the sentences containing keywords to make sure. Then go on the

same way. Resist the temptation to stop to read details you don't need.

➔ Ask yourself: “What is this text mostly about?” Try to express the overall idea in one

sentence.

b. Skim the passage “Shinta’s Secret to a Well-Organized Day” and answer the questions below.
1. What kind of routine does Shinta follow in the morning?

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2. What does Shinta usually do in the morning?

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3. What kind of schedule does Shinta follow during weekdays?

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4. What is Shinta's study routine like after class?

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5. How does Shinta end her day?

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6. Why does Shinta feel satisfied at night?

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