1. Finding the main point Using key words to find information Using layout to find information

2.  The main point of a text is what it is about  You don’t need to read all of the text to find the main point.  Move your eyes quickly over the text looking for key words.  Key words are the most important words in the text.  Underline or highlight the key words you find.

3.  Example 1:  Not much is known about the history of Stonehenge. Nobody knows when it was build, but most historians think it must have been between 3000 and 2000 BC.  Example 2:  Taking regular exercise helps to keep you healthy. It reduces your risk of heart disease and diabetes.  Example 1:  Not much is known about the history of Stonehenge. Nobody knows when it was build, but most historians think it must have been between 3000 and 2000 BC.  Example 2:  Taking regular exercise helps to keep you healthy. It reduces your risk of heart disease and diabetes.

4.  Some texts are divided into paragraphs. Paragraphs are groups of sentences.  The main point of a text is often in the first paragraph. Hi Jonathan, I’d like to go to the cinema for my birthday next Wednesday. I was wondering if you wanted to come too? The play I want to see is called ‘Gravity’. It’s a science fiction film set in outer space. The tickets are £8 each. The film starts at 7.30pm. Now it’s your turn

5.  Look for key words in the question and the text  You don’t have to read all of the text to find a piece of information.  Underline or highlight the key words in the question.  Quickly read the text looking for the key words.  When you find a key word, read the whole sentence carefully to find the answer.

6. Using a Post Office (PO) box Having your mail sent to a PO box lets you keep the address of your company private. If you have a PO box you must collect your mail once a month. The Post Office can deliver mail from PO boxes for an extra fee. Using a Post Office (PO) box Having your mail sent to a PO box lets you keep the address of your company private. If you have a PO box you must collect your mail once a month. The Post Office can deliver mail from PO boxes for an extra fee.

7. The key words in the question might not be exactly the same as the words in the text. Example: Give one example of a subject you can try at the open day. Mid-Valley Language School Mid-Valley Language School is having an open day on Thursday 4 th May. Come and have a free taster session. We have lots of classes on offer. French German Spanish Arabic BSL Mid-Valley Language School Mid-Valley Language School is having an open day on Thursday 4 th May. Come and have a free taster session. We have lots of classes on offer. French German Spanish Arabic BSL Now it’s your turn

8.  Use subheadings to help you find information  Subheadings are titles in the text that tell you what each section is about.  Look for subheadings that match the information you need.  Read the text under that subheading. The answer will probably be there.

9. Visit Hereford When to go: Try to avoid school holidays when the city gets very busy. Where to stay: There are several hotels in the city itself, or many pleasant B&Bs in the area. Activities: You could visit the cathedral, which is open daily. You could also cross the Old Wye Bridge or take a tour or the Town Hall. Outside the City: Hay-on-Wye West Midlands Safari Park

10.  Find the piece of information you are being asked about.  Look at the subheading above it. The subheading is the answer. Example: You want to find out what to take with you if you have to leave your home during a flood. What section is this information in? Now it’s your turn Flood Awareness Flood warnings: Flood warnings are given during periods of heavy rain. Flood warnings can be green, amber or red. A red warning is the worst. It means flooding is very likely. Evacuation: In rare cases people have to be evacuated during a flood. If you have to leave your home, you should take food, water, warm clothes and a mobile phone with you.

11.  They separate information so it is easier to read.

12.  This makes important information stand out.

13.  Use the column headings to help you find the information. Now it’s your turn