1. Using Reading and Writing Strategies
Chapter 3 –
Using Reading and Writing Strategies
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© Cengage Learning. All rights reserved.

2. © 2016. Cengage Learning. All rights reserved.
Opening Activity
Discuss the following in a small group. Have someone make a list of things you brainstorm to share with the class.
Why is note-taking important when reading textbooks?
What are your favorite note-taking strategies?
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3. © 2016. Cengage Learning. All rights reserved.
Learning Outcomes
By the time you finish reading and studying this chapter, you should be able to:
LO1 Understand the structure of textbooks.
LO2 Annotate a text.
LO3 Take effective notes.
LO4 Use an outline.
LO5 Use a table diagram.
LO6 Write a summary.
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© Cengage Learning. All rights reserved.

4. Annotating a Text
To annotate means “to add comments or make notes in a reading selection while you are reading.”
Annotating is a way to interact with the selection.
Here are some types of annotations you can make:
Ask questions in the margins.
Underline or highlight important ideas.
Comment on the ideas in the margins.
Circle unfamiliar terms and define them in the margins.
Connect different parts.
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5. Taking Effective Notes
Note-Taking Tips:
Use your own words.
List important ideas and details.
Use abbreviations and symbols.
Label and date notes.
Pay attention to boldface words, italicized words, and graphics.
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6. Taking Effective Notes
The Cornell Method is a two-column system for taking notes. The large column is for main notes, and the smaller one is for questions and key terms.
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7. © 2016. Cengage Learning. All rights reserved.
Using an Outline
Outlining helps you reinforce learning and see how ideas fit together.
There are two types of outlines:
A topic outline expresses ideas in words and phrases.
A sentence outline expresses ideas in complete sentences.
Basic structure of an outline:
Main idea
Major detail
1. Minor detail
2. Minor detail
B. Main Idea
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8. © 2016. Cengage Learning. All rights reserved.
Using a Table Diagram
A table diagram helps you identify and arrange the main idea and supporting details.
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Writing a Summary
Writing a summary will tell you how well you understand a reading assignment.
Here are some guidelines for summary writing:
use your own words
length should be one-third of the original
start by stating the main idea of the reading
follow with key supporting facts and details
arrange details in a logical order
tie everything together in a closing sentence
© Cengage Learning. All rights reserved.
© Cengage Learning. All rights reserved.