Reading critically for a purpose
Maya King
9 min read
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Study Guide Overview
This AP Research study guide covers critical reading strategies including previewing and prioritizing (scanning, skimming, questioning, rereading) and making meaning (annotating, note-taking, highlighting, reading aloud). It focuses on identifying key elements in texts such as main idea, tone, assumptions, context, perspective, line of reasoning, and evidence. The guide also provides practice questions and exam tips.
#AP Research: Critical Reading - Your Ultimate Guide 🚀
Hey there, future AP Research superstar! Feeling a bit overwhelmed? Don't worry, we've got you covered. This guide is designed to be your go-to resource, especially the night before the exam. Let's make sure you're not just ready, but excited to show off your skills! This guide is designed to be your go-to resource, especially the night before the exam. Let's make sure you're not just ready, but excited to show off your skills!
#What is Critical Reading? 🧐
Critical reading isn't about being negative; it's about being active. Think of it as a detective's work - you're not just reading words, you're analyzing them. You're looking for the main idea, tone, assumptions, context, perspective, line of reasoning, and evidence. It's like having a conversation with the author, asking questions, and challenging ideas. Remember, you don't have to disagree to think critically! It's about understanding why the author says what they say.
Critical reading is active reading. It involves engaging with the text to understand its components and purpose.
#Active Reading
Active reading is reading with a purpose. It's about being engaged and looking for specific things in the text. Instead of passively letting the words wash over you, you're actively seeking information and understanding. This approach is super helpful when you're dealing with tons of academic articles. It makes the research process more efficient and helps you really grasp what you're reading.
Think of active reading as reading with a mission. You're not just a tourist; you're an explorer on a quest for knowledge!
#Critical Reading Skills 🛠️
We'll break down critical reading into two main categories: Preview and Prioritize (P&P) and Making Meaning. Let's get started!
#Preview and Prioritize (P&P)
It's impossible to absorb everything on the first read, especially with complex scholarly papers. P&P is about interacting with the text in multiple ways to make the most of your time and effort. It involves four key strategies:
#Scanning
Scanning is like a quick reconnaissance mission. You're quickly reading through a text to get a general sense of the content and main points. Look at headings, subheadings, and key terms. This helps you decide if the article is even worth a closer look. It's a huge time-saver! ⏱️
Scanning helps you quickly assess if a source is relevant to your research, saving you valuable time. </quick...
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