The Power of Choice Reading

Posted on by Lux Writing Center

In a world where reading is often associated with assignments and obligations, imagine a classroom or home where every student eagerly dives into a book of their own choosing. This is the essence of “Choice Reading” – a transformative approach to English instruction that empowers students to select their own reading material. But what exactly is choice reading, and why is it so significant?

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What is Choice Reading?

Choice reading is more than just allowing students to pick books off a shelf; it’s about giving them the autonomy to explore literature that resonates with their interests and passions. Unlike traditional assigned readings, which can feel restrictive and disconnected from students’ lives, choice reading taps into the intrinsic motivation to learn and discover. At its core, choice reading is rooted in the belief that fostering a love for reading is fundamental to language development and academic success.

The Educator’s Role in Choice Reading

In the realm of choice reading, educators serve as facilitators and mentors, guiding students on their literary journeys. Through one-on-one discussions, teachers or parents delve into students’ chosen books, offering insights and encouragement while fostering deeper connections to the text. Leading by example, educators share their own reading experiences and suggest books, inspiring students to explore new genres and authors. Additionally, teachers support students in navigating the ups and downs of reading, whether it’s pushing through a slow start or recognizing when a book isn’t the right fit. Ultimately, by respecting students’ agency and providing guidance, educators play a pivotal role in cultivating a lifelong love for reading.

The Benefits for Language Development

The benefits of choice reading extend far beyond simply completing a reading assignment. By immersing themselves in texts of their choosing, students engage with language in meaningful ways that promote literacy skills and fluency. Exposure to a variety of texts expands vocabulary, enhances comprehension, and fosters critical thinking. Research has shown that students who have the opportunity to select their own reading material demonstrate greater enthusiasm for reading and improved overall language proficiency.

A Lifelong Love for Reading

Perhaps the most compelling aspect of choice reading is its ability to nurture a lifelong love for literature. When students are empowered to explore books that capture their imagination, reading becomes more than just a school activity – it becomes a passion. By encouraging intrinsic motivation and personal connection to literature, choice reading sets the stage for a lifetime of joyful reading experiences.

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Implementing Choice Reading

For educators interested in implementing choice reading in their classrooms or homes, the process may seem daunting at first. However, with careful planning and consideration, choice reading can become a cornerstone of English instruction. Begin by surveying students to gauge their interests and reading preferences, then curate a diverse selection of books that cater to a range of tastes and reading levels. Provide opportunities for students to share and discuss their chosen books, fostering a sense of community and collaboration within the classroom.

In a time inundated with distractions and demands on our attention, nurturing a love for reading has never been more important. Choice reading offers a pathway to unlock the potential within every student, fostering a deep appreciation for literature and language. By embracing choice reading in English instruction, educators have the opportunity to empower students, ignite their curiosity, and inspire a lifelong love for reading.

Mastering Common Grammar Challenges

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Navigating the nuances of grammar can be like untangling a web of intricate rules. In our pursuit of clear and effective communication, we often encounter stumbling blocks that impede our writing’s fluency. Let’s explore and demystify three common grammar challenges that frequently trip us up: commas, subject-verb agreement with complex subjects, and maintaining parallel structure.

COMMAS

Commas are the unsung heroes of punctuation, yet their misuse can alter a sentence’s intended meaning. Their placement can change the flow and comprehension of your writing. Whether setting off introductory phrases, separating items in a list, or delineating clauses, knowing where to place commas is essential for clarity. Misplaced commas can lead to confusion, such as in this example: “Let’s eat Grandma” versus “Let’s eat, Grandma.”

After Introductory Clauses:
Commas are used after introductory words, phrases, or clauses that come before the main clause.
Example:

After finishing her homework, Emily went for a walk.

Separating Items in a List:
Commas are used to separate three or more items in a list.
Example:

She bought apples, oranges, and bananas from the market.

With Coordinate Adjectives:
When two or more adjectives equally describe a noun, a comma is used to separate them.
Example:

He wore a bright, colorful shirt.

Before Conjunctions in Compound Sentences:
When joining two independent clauses with a coordinating conjunction (and, but, or, so, etc.), a comma precedes the conjunction.
Example:

She loves to dance, but she cannot sing.

Setting Off Non-Essential Information:
Commas are used to set off non-essential or non-restrictive clauses and phrases.
Example:

The movie, which was released last month, received positive reviews.

With Addresses and Dates:
Commas are used to separate parts of addresses or elements of a date.
Example:

She lives in Paris, France.

January 1, 2023, is the deadline.

After Interjections:
Commas are used after interjections or introductory words that express emotions.
Example:

Wow, that’s amazing!

When Directly Addressing Someone:
Commas are used when directly addressing a person in a sentence.
Example:

John, could you pass the salt, please?

Remember, commas help avoid ambiguity and structure your thoughts. But, excessive use can disrupt the rhythm of your sentences. Use them purposefully to guide readers without overwhelming them.

SUBJECT-VERB AGREEMENT

Subject-verb agreement seems straightforward until complex subjects, “or/nor,” and “and” muddy the waters. When the subject involves multiple elements or is connected by “or” and “nor,” the verb agrees with the closest noun or pronoun to the verb. For example, “The book or the pens are on the table.” Here, “pens” is closest to the verb “are,” so it determines the verb’s form.

When using “and,” the rule is different. The subject becomes plural when joined by “and.” For instance, “Sarah and her friends are attending the party.” Here, “Sarah and her friends” act as a plural subject connected by “and,” requiring the plural verb “are.”

PARALLEL STRUCTURE

Parallel structure ensures uniformity and balance in writing. It involves presenting similar ideas in a consistent format, whether in a list, a series, or a comparison. When constructing a list, make sure that the elements within it follow the same grammatical pattern. For example, “She likes hiking, swimming, and to ride bicycles” should be revised to “She likes hiking, swimming, and riding bicycles” for consistency.

Similarly, in comparisons, maintain a parallel structure by aligning the structure of the elements. For instance, “He enjoys not only reading books but also to write stories” should be adjusted to “He enjoys not only reading books but also writing stories” for parallelism.

Mastering these grammar intricacies requires practice, attention to detail, and an understanding of their application. By employing commas purposefully, navigating subject-verb agreements, and ensuring parallel structure, you can elevate the quality and clarity of your writing.

Excelling in AP Language and Composition

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The Advanced Placement (AP) Language and Composition course is a rigorous academic program designed to immerse high school students in the intricacies of the English language—specifically, its non-fiction facet. From argumentative essays to rhetorical analyses, the AP Language and Composition course offers a multitude of opportunities to sharpen your language skills and prepare for college-level work. This guide will cover some ways to succeed in the course and on the exam.

Understand the Curriculum

The AP Language and Composition course emphasizes three major skills:

1. Rhetorical Analysis: Analyzing prose passages to understand the author’s purpose, target audience, and argumentative strategies.

2. Argumentation: Constructing a reasoned, evidence-based argument.

3. Synthesis: Combining multiple sources of information to develop a coherent argument.

Study Strategies

Active Reading

  • Annotation: Take notes in the margins and underline key points. Look for rhetorical devices, structural elements, and other noteworthy features.
  • Summarization: After finishing each section, summarize the main ideas in your own words.

Writing Practice

  • Draft and Revise: Your first draft is just that—a draft. Make sure to revise, seeking clarity, conciseness, and effectiveness in argumentation.
  • Peer Reviews: Regularly have classmates or a teacher review your essays. This provides invaluable feedback that you might not catch on your own.

Preparing for Assessments

Class Assignments

  • Timed Essays: You’ll frequently have timed essays. Practice under time constraints to get used to the pressure.
  • Multiple-Choice Questions: These often focus on rhetorical strategies and techniques, so practice with real AP questions when possible.

AP Exam Preparation

  • Official Practice Tests: The College Board offers practice tests. Simulate exam conditions as closely as possible when you take these.
  • Review Books: Invest in a reputable AP Language and Composition review book to get practice questions and study tips.

Time Management

  • Planning: Use planners or digital calendar apps to set reminders for assignment deadlines and study schedules.
  • Pacing: Break down study materials into manageable portions. Don’t cram all at once; instead, spread your review sessions over several days or weeks.

Extra Resources

  • Online Forums: Platforms like Reddit and AP Students Discord channels provide helpful insights and tips from peers who have already taken the exam.
  • Study Groups: Form or join a study group to review material and discuss complex topics.

The AP Language and Composition course can be a rewarding experience for those who approach it with dedication, effective study strategies, and a willingness to engage deeply with the English language.

Looking for more personalized instruction? Consider our tailored instruction services to boost your AP Language and Composition skills to the next level.

Why Reading Comprehension Matters

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Reading comprehension is much more than merely decoding words on a page; it’s a critical skill that serves as the foundation for all future learning. It impacts how we interpret and respond to the world around us, affecting everything from our academic achievements to our professional success. In this deep dive, we’ll explore why reading comprehension is so crucial and offer some tips to improve it.

The Importance of Reading Comprehension

Academic Benefits

Reading comprehension is foundational for academic success across disciplines. Whether you’re interpreting historical texts, analyzing scientific papers, or scrutinizing business reports, understanding what you read is crucial.

Cognitive Advantages

Comprehension skills enhance cognitive functions like critical thinking, problem-solving, and analytical reasoning.

Emotional Well-Being

Good comprehension skills can also have emotional benefits, enhancing empathy and social understanding by allowing us to understand different perspectives through literature and journalism.

Key Components of Reading Comprehension

Vocabulary

A strong vocabulary allows you to understand more complex texts and ideas.

Syntax and Structure

Understanding sentence structure and syntax can help you grasp the author’s meaning more easily.

Background Knowledge

Prior knowledge about a topic can significantly improve your understanding of new material related to it.

How to Improve Reading Comprehension

Active Reading

Engage with the text by asking questions, making annotations, and taking notes as you read.

Summarization

After finishing a section or chapter, summarize it in your own words to reinforce your understanding.

Discuss What You Read

Talking about what you’ve read can clarify misunderstandings and solidify your comprehension.

Tools for Enhancing Comprehension

Educational Apps

There are numerous apps designed to help improve your reading comprehension.

Individualized Instruction

Personalized tutoring in reading and comprehension can offer targeted strategies for improvement.

Reading comprehension is an essential skill that benefits us academically, cognitively, and emotionally. By understanding its importance and taking steps to improve, you set yourself up for success in virtually all areas of life.

For those looking for more personalized strategies for improving reading comprehension, consider our individualized instruction services tailored to meet your specific needs.

Understanding AP Seminar (Capstone)

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The AP (Advanced Placement) Seminar course is a unique educational experience that forms the foundation of the AP Capstone Diploma Program. Designed to foster skills in research, analysis, and evidence-based arguments, AP Seminar offers students an invaluable opportunity to prepare for college-level coursework. If you’re a student considering enrolling in this course, or a parent trying to guide your child through their educational journey, read on to understand what AP Seminar entails.

What is AP Seminar?

AP Seminar is a year-long course developed by the College Board. Unlike other AP courses, which focus on mastering subject-specific content, AP Seminar is interdisciplinary. This means that students have the opportunity to explore topics across various subjects, including literature, history, science, and the arts. The main objective is to cultivate critical thinking, collaboration, and academic research skills.

Who Should Take AP Seminar?

The course is ideal for students who:

  • Are in 10th, 11th, or 12th grade.
  • Are interested in taking on an academically challenging program.
  • Wish to develop skills in critical thinking, research, and effective communication.

Course Structure and Content

AP Seminar is divided into two main parts:

  1. Team Project and Presentation: Students work in teams to research and analyze topics, later presenting their findings.
  2. Individual Research-Based Essay and Presentation: Each student picks a research topic, writes an essay, and delivers an oral presentation on their findings.

Core Skills Taught

  • Research Methodology
  • Analyzing Texts
  • Gathering Evidence
  • Team Collaboration
  • Effective Communication

Assessments and Exams

The AP Seminar score (1-5) is unlike other AP scores, in that it consists of:

Performance Task 1 (20%):

-Individual Research Report (1,200 words)–College Board scored

-Team Multimedia Presentation and Defense (8-10 minutes plus questions)–teacher scored

Performance Task 2 (35%):

-Individual Written Argument (2,000 words)–College Board scored

-Individual Multimedia Presentation and Oral Defense (6-8 minutes plus questions)–teacher scored

Exam (45%):

-Understanding and analyzing an argument (3 short-answer questions): 30 minutes

-Evidence-Based argument essay (1 long essay): 90 minutes

Why AP Seminar is Beneficial

  • College Readiness: The course teaches you skills you’ll frequently use in college.
  • Stand Out in College Applications: Successfully completing a challenging course like AP Seminar makes you more attractive to colleges.
  • Interdisciplinary Learning: This course allows you to connect ideas across various fields.
  • Potential for College Credit: Many colleges and universities offer credit for a high score on the AP Seminar exam.

Tips for Success

  • Start Early: The earlier you start your research, the more thorough it will be.
  • Practice, Practice, Practice: Whether it’s writing or presenting, practice makes perfect.
  • Work on Team Skills: Teamwork is crucial for success in this course.

AP Seminar is a rigorous, skill-based course that offers invaluable preparation for college. From research skills to effective communication, the course equips students with the tools they’ll need in higher education and beyond. Therefore, understanding the intricacies of AP Seminar can help you decide if this academically enriching experience is right for you or your child.

If you’re looking for personalized guidance in writing, reading, or general English instruction to help you succeed in AP Seminar or any other English course, feel free to contact Mr. Lux. His specialized services are designed to meet your individual needs.

Discover the Benefits of Homeschooling and How Mr. Lux Elevates the English Education Journey

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In today’s diverse educational landscape, homeschooling benefits are catching the attention of more and more families. From individualized learning experiences to flexible scheduling, homeschooling offers compelling advantages. In this blog, we explore the multifaceted benefits of homeschool learning and how specialized support from Mr. Lux can refine your homeschool English education.

Advantages of Homeschool Learning

1. Individualized Learning: The Heart of Homeschooling

One of the key homeschooling benefits is the ability to tailor the educational journey to your child’s unique learning style. This customized learning approach often results in more effective skill development and a deeper understanding of various subjects.

2. The Freedom of Flexible Scheduling

Flexibility is one of the most celebrated advantages of homeschooling. It allows families to adapt their learning schedule to better suit their lifestyle, opening up more time for extracurricular activities and family bonding.

3. Building Strong Family Connections

Quality time spent in a homeschool environment promotes strong family connections. Direct parent-child communication is more frequent, leading to better understanding and stronger relationships.

4. A Safe Learning Environment

Homeschooling provides a safe and distraction-free learning environment. This setting allows for focused study and minimizes the stress and pressure often associated with traditional school systems.

5. Experiential Learning Opportunities

Homeschooling benefits extend to hands-on learning opportunities like travel, museum visits, and practical life experiences that enrich the educational journey.

6. Socialization: A Balanced Perspective

Despite misconceptions, homeschooling offers ample socialization opportunities through community activities, sports, and homeschool co-ops.

How Mr. Lux Enhances Your Homeschool English Education

“My son is just finishing his first month with Mr. Lux. I already see tremendous improvement in his ability to get through the process of writing. More importantly, my son is not hating the process of writing, but seems now to enjoy sharing his ideas and thoughts. He wrote an analysis of a Hemingway story for Mr. Lux, and got interested in the other stories Hemingway has written, and read several of Hemingway’s short stories. That is cool! The process of writing that Mr. Lux teaches is structured yet relaxed and gives freedom. He gives encouragement and see’s what is done well, as well as making suggestions for improvement. I am glad we did this.”

-Homeschool Parent

Mastering the English language—from reading comprehension to writing skills—can be challenging. That’s where Mr. Lux’s specialized tutoring services can help. From literary analysis essays to creative pieces, Mr. Lux provides expert guidance to develop strong writing capabilities that serve well in academic and real-world scenarios.

With Lux Writing Center, parents can be as much or as little involved with the writing process as they desire. With an individualized approach, Mr. Lux is able to work with the curriculum parents have already established for their homeschooler; or Mr. Lux can take the wheel completely.

Homeschooling offers an enriching, personalized educational experience. And with specialized English support from Mr. Lux, you can ensure a well-rounded curriculum for your homeschooler. To discover more about how Mr. Lux can make a difference in your homeschooling journey, contact Lux Writing Center today.

Mastering Email Communication: Tips for Effective Email Writing with Lux Writing Center

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With Lux Writing Center, students learn asynchronously via email, often using Google Docs for online learning alongside email. However, email communication extends beyond just learning writing skills with our experienced instructors.

Whether for business communication, personal correspondence, or educational communication, knowing how to write effective emails is an indispensable skill. This guide will explore why effective email writing is essential and provide actionable tips for mastering it.

Why Effective Email Writing is Crucial

Business Communication: In the corporate world, email is the go-to means for formal communication. It plays a vital role in transmitting crucial information, making business inquiries, and fostering professional relationships.

Personal Correspondence: Email offers a convenient way to stay in touch with loved ones, share life updates, and nurture relationships, no matter the distance.

Academic Communication: Both students and educators rely on email for discussing coursework, class assignments, and other academic interactions.

Principles of Effective Email Writing

  • Be Concise: Avoid verbose emails. Respect the recipient’s time by conveying only the necessary information and eliminating fluff.
  • Optimize the Subject Line: A well-crafted subject line serves as a snapshot of your email’s content, helping recipients to quickly identify and prioritize your message.
  • Clarity is Key: Use short paragraphs and bullet points for easier readability. Make sure your message is straightforward and simple to comprehend.
  • Maintain Professionalism: A courteous greeting such as “Hello,” “Hi,” or “Dear [Name]” sets the tone. Use respectful language and steer clear of any offensive or confrontational expressions.
  • Mind Your Tone: Be conscious of how your words may be perceived. Stay away from all-caps, which can seem like shouting, and limit your use of exclamation points.
  • Proofreading Matters: Errors can mar your professionalism. Always proofread to ensure accuracy and consider using a spelling and grammar checker.

Mastering the art of email communication is vital in today’s digital era. By following these principles—being concise, optimizing the subject line, maintaining clarity, being professional, minding your tone, and proofreading—you’ll ensure that your emails not only achieve their intended purpose but also leave a positive impression on your recipients.

The Advantages of Online Writing Tutoring: Why Lux Writing Center is Your Best Choice

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In the age of digitalization, the ways we learn are continually evolving. One area that has seen tremendous growth is online education, particularly in specialized subjects like writing. If you’re considering online writing instruction, you may wonder what sets it apart from traditional classroom learning. At Lux Writing Center, we offer several advantages that make us the perfect fit for your writing needs, whether you’re a homeschooler, college applicant, AP student, or even an adult learner. Here’s why online writing tutoring with us could be a game-changer for you.

Hand-Tailored Instruction

At Lux Writing Center, we take pride in providing 100% hand-tailored feedback, lessons, guidance, and direction. Unlike other tutoring services that offer cookie-cutter lessons, we focus on your unique needs and skills. We offer customized instruction for a wide array of writing needs, such as homeschool writing, college admission essay guidance, AP Language, Literature, and Seminar, and much more.

Flexibility and Control

You are the captain of your educational ship. You have the freedom to choose the projects and assignments you want to work on. This flexibility is especially beneficial for homeschool parents and adult learners. Our services offer complete freedom to incorporate assignments from an outside curriculum, ensuring the course you take is truly yours.

Daily Feedback

Nothing is worse for writing improvement than submitting a piece of writing and having to wait an entire week for feedback. We guarantee a response within 24 business hours (Monday-Friday). This consistent interaction helps accelerate your learning process, making every day a day of progress.

Experienced Guidance

Mr. Lux, a licensed U.S. educator with an MA in English and over a decade of teaching experience, leads Lux Writing Center. His wealth of experience enables him to see each student’s unique needs and tailor instruction accordingly.

Understanding Writing as Thinking

The ability to express oneself clearly in writing is a valuable skill, but it’s also a window into the mind. We believe that writing is more than just expression—it’s the roadmap of your thoughts. Our aim is to help you refine your ideas and understanding through the art of writing.

Asynchronous Learning

Flexibility is at the core of our instruction. We understand that life happens, so we offer asynchronous learning. There are no fixed meeting times, meaning you can email us whenever you’re ready to submit work or ask a question. We always reply within 24 business hours.

Ideal for Adult Learners Too

If you’re an adult who wants to improve writing skills, whether for career advancement, continuing education, or personal projects, Lux Writing Center offers the same level of customized, professional guidance.

Convenient Course Communication

Our courses are conducted through email or shared Google Docs, offering you a hassle-free way to submit your work and receive feedback. This convenient communication method ensures that geographic location is never a barrier to quality education.

Choosing Lux Writing Center means investing in an individualized, flexible, and experienced educational journey. From the comprehensive curriculum options to the quick turnaround on feedback, we provide a uniquely supportive and effective learning environment for students of all ages.

To discover more about how Lux Writing Center can elevate your writing skills, reach out to us today.

Navigating the New Digital SAT: Tips and Strategies for Success

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The Scholastic Assessment Test (SAT) has recently undergone significant changes, making it more relevant and accessible to today’s students. One of the most significant transformations is the shift to a digital format. In this blog post, we will explore the key aspects of the new digital SAT and provide valuable tips and strategies to help students prepare effectively.

The Digital SAT:

  • Familiarity with the Testing Application:
    • Be familiar with the testing application. Understand how to navigate through the test, use the digital tools, and manage time effectively.
  • Question Format:
    • The new SAT features shorter passages, with each passage accompanied by one question.
    • There are 27 questions per module in Reading and Writing (54 total).
    • Students have more time per question.
  • More Time:
    • Students have 32 minutes to complete each Reading and Writing module (64 minutes in total) and 35 minutes for each Math module (70 minutes total).
    • This comes to about 1.19 minutes per reading and writing question and 1.59 minutes per math question.
  • Shorter Test Duration:
    • The new digital SAT is shorter–two hours and 14 minutes instead of the previous three hours.
  • Multistage Adaptive Testing:
    • In the first module of each section (Reading/Writing or Math), students are presented with a mix of easy, medium, and difficult questions.
    • In the second module, the computer adapts to the student’s performance level, providing questions that are either easier or harder based on their initial responses.
  • Combined Reading and Writing Sections:
    • The Reading and Writing sections from the traditional SAT have been combined into two modules, although they test the same content as before.

Essay Section (Optional):

  • While some students choose to complete the optional essay section, it is only necessary if their desired colleges require or recommend it.

Preparing for the SAT:

  • Review basic grammar components:
    • Comma usage
    • Subject-verb agreement
    • Commonly confused words
    • Pronouns.
  • For multiple-choice questions, the process of elimination can be a valuable strategy.
    • Eliminate clearly wrong answer choices first.
    • Then eliminate half-truths, hyperboles, and incorrect assumptions.
  • Time management is crucial.
    • Do not to spend excessive time on the toughest questions.
    • Make educated guesses on questions they are unsure about.
  • Pay attention to detail and avoid jumping to conclusions when reading questions and passages.

Common Mistakes to Avoid:

  • Be vigilant for common mistakes the SAT tests:
    • Effect   vs affect
    • A lot   vs allot   vs a lot
    • into (movement)   vs in to (I came in to get a drink)
    • then (shift in time) vs   than (comparison)
    • assure (promise)  vs insure (protect risk)  vs ensure (to make certain)
    • less (can’t count)  vs fewer (can count)
    • between (two things, clearly separated)  vs among (several things, not clearly separated)
    • me (you are the object receiving the action–“Please contact me”) vs myself (reflexive pronoun—“I hit myself”)
  • Familiarize yourself with prefixes that can help you understand unfamiliar words in context:
    • omni – all – omnipotent, omnipresent, omnivore
    • inter – between – intercede, interfere, interject
    • intra – within – intrapersonal, intramural
    • mal – bad – maladjusted, malign
    • ben – good – benevolent, benefit
    • grat – pleasing – gratify, gratuity
    • sub – below – subzero, substitute, subordinate
    • re – again – realign, readjust
    • retro – back – retroact (act backward)
    • se – apart – secession (withdraw from assoc.), secret (kept apart/hidden), select (choose one, set apart)
    • dys – bad/abnormal – dystopia, dysfunction
    • sym – together – symbol (bring meanings together)
    • super – above – supersede (take the place of previous supervisor), superfluous (more than needed)
  • Practice is the most effective preparation strategy. Regularly practicing with official SAT materials and sample tests can build confidence and familiarity with the format.

The new digital SAT offers students a more user-friendly and relevant testing experience. By understanding the test’s format, practicing effectively, and applying essential strategies, students can approach the SAT with confidence and increase their chances of success. Preparing for this important exam is about more than just memorizing facts—it’s about mastering the skills needed for academic and professional success.

Read Well to Write Well: Strategies for Reading Comprehension

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For a man to write well, there are required three necessaries—to read the best authors, observe the best speakers, and much exercise of his own style…It is fit for the beginner and learner to study others and the best. For the mind and memory are more sharply exercised in comprehending another man’s things than our own.

~Ben Jonson

The English playwright and poet Ben Jonson knew what it takes to succeed in writing: read, observe, and exercise. In other words, it is important to observe the work of others and practice often. If you can understand what you read, then you will be able to:

  • Use the knowledge you have gained to support your own ideas
  • Apply the structure and style that others use to your own writing.

But understanding what you read, or reading comprehension, takes practice and intention. Before reading a text, it will help if you set a purpose. Take a look at the reading and ask yourself the following:

  • What is the topic of the text?
  • When was it written?
  • What issue(s) will be addressed?
  • What conclusion(s) might the author reach about the issue(s)?

Then, as you read the text, consider these questions:

  • What reasons does the author give for their statements or belief?
  • Is the author using facts or opinions?
  • Has the author used neutral or emotive words?
  • What seems to be the writer’s position?
  • What assumptions does the writer make?

Finally, when you have finished the reading, answer these questions:

  • What does the author leave out?
  • Whose perspectives, experiences, or attitudes are not considered?
  • Do you accept the arguments made by the author? Why or why not?

Setting a purpose will help you become a better reader, and being a better reader will improve your writing. By asking yourself the above questions, you improve your close reading skills. While speed is important when reading, comprehension is more essential to being a good reader. Strong reading comprehension requires close reading and a critical eye. Close-reading is a thoughtful, critical analysis of a text, which focuses on both structure and meaning to develop a deep, precise understanding.

To help you improve your engagement with a text, you might consider making a few notes as you read:

  • Notes to explain meaning
  • Synonyms for unfamiliar words
  • Challenges to opinions that are expressed
  • Examples to support points that are made
  • Connections of your own experiences or wider knowledge
  • Questions about the text

By enhancing your reading skills, you will also greatly improve your writing ability. So, if you aspire to be an excellent write, don’t forget to pick up a book!

Source: Pavich, Jill. Cambridge International AS Level: General Paper Coursebook