Active Reading Strategies for Textbooks
Introduction
Have you ever sat down at the dinner table and watched how everyone actually eats? A few people have to eat all of one thing at time, some take a few bites then move on to the next, while others simply pile everything together in the middle and eat it all at once. Which way is the right way?
Reading for learning is a lot like how people eat: the order doesn’t really matter, as long as everything gets eaten. When you read textbooks for information, it’s not like reading a novel where you start at the beginning and work your way to the end. You can read the chapter title, then the summary, then captions underneath images, then the different headings, and then the text. As long as you are actively engaged with the content by asking questions, taking notes, and reviewing what you’ve learned, you’re on the right track!
Watch
MK-12 Video “Active Reading Strategies for Textbooks” (V 2:54)
Visit
- https://bit.ly/3gV2Kv5 Links to an external site. – Infogr.am “SQ3R Reading Method”
- YouTube Links to an external site. – "SQ3R Reading Method"
Key Ideas
- Reading textbooks for learning requires a different strategy.
- Survey the text, skimming for the big ideas.
- Question the text by turning main points into questions that need answering.
- Read the text carefully, taking notes on the answers to your questions.
- Recall/Recite the main facts by telling them to someone else or writing them out.
- Review your notes for any missing facts or concepts then reread to fill in the gaps.
Apply
- Utilize the SQ3R strategy for a reading assignment.
- Try out highlighting, annotating in the margins, or keeping a notebook to see what works for you.
- Take notes on a reading assignment, then try retelling what you’ve learned to someone else.
- Try using a mind map, chart, or diagram to help you make sense of the new material.