Mon. Mar. 13, 2017: Introduction to Sinclair Ross, Active Reading Abridged

Today, I gave you background on our first author, Sinclair Ross (while encouraging efficient note-taking skills). I then went over how to read a text in a test situation (again, abridged) and handed out your first reading: from "A Field of Wheat." You were given a half an hour to read this actively. I have pasted notes below and linked in the background and the story below. Have it actively read for tomorrow's class.

Reading Comprehension on an exam is shorter than what is expected in class. It is important to time yourself so you can meet the objectives in the time indicated, but you still need to read actively in order to understand the material and not just get lost in it and have to re-read it!

Once again, let’s look at the steps and then apply them to one of the readings.

How to Read Actively in a Test Situation

1.      Analyze the title (before you read). Write down in one or two words what it might mean.

2.      Read the first paragraph. Be sure to highlight the expository information presented (the five Ws). Also, highlight unknown words or figurative devices you see as well as relevant information, such as main points.

3.      Paraphrase the paragraph. Basically, lift your head up (if you have to) and think about what you read; then, in as few words as possible (one or two!) write what the paragraph is about in the margin beside the paragraph.

Sinclair Ross: Background

"A Field of Wheat" reading