Reading and Notemaking

1
Reading and Note-making

• Learning Skills Workshop Series
• Lindy Kimmins (LTSU)

2
Reading at University

• lots to read
• reading for different purposes
• need to read for understanding
• need to read critically
• need to think critically

3
Credibility of material available

• Is it current?
• Is the author experienced/qualified in the area?
• Is it well researched and referenced?
• Are the references from reputable sources?

4
Types of Reading Material

• internet
• journal
• text book
• local newspaper
• course study materials
• encyclopedia

5
Types of Reading Material

• internet vvv
• journal vvvv
• text book vvv
• local newspaper v
• course study materials vv
• encyclopedia v

6
So.. what do we do with this material?

• Is it relevant for your purpose?
• How do you find out?

7
Things to look at - book

• title and sub-title
• author details (if there are any)
• table of contents
• chapter titles
• synopsis of chapters (if provided)

8
Things to look at - article

• title and subtitle
• authors qualifications
• headings and subheadings
• abstract
• introduction
• conclusion

9
Note-making

• the writers purpose
• the writers main ideas
• notes need to made in your own words
• any format that suits you
• avoid too much detail
• should not be a reading exercise
• avoid highlighting

10
Take notes in your own words

• ensures understanding
• makes sure it is an idea and not a topic or
  heading
• makes grouping of ideas easier
• facilitates critical thinking and reading

11
Checklist

• check the writers details
• read all the article first
• read parts of an article
• read abstract first
• highlight paragraphs
• write in your own words
• decide on the writers argument
• think about the article in relation to other text
• write ideas in sentences
• write detailed notes

12
Checklist

• check the writers details v
• read all the article first
• read parts of an article v
• read abstract first v
• highlight paragraphs
• write in your own words v
• decide on the writers argument v
• think about the article in relation to other text
  v
• write ideas in sentences v
• write detailed notes

13
Conclusion

• read
• understand
• think
• write