How to approach your readings

Relax, enjoy and read slowly and carefully

These are the three most important elements to maximizing your understanding and pleasure as you approach your assigned readings.

RelaxFirst of all, pick a comfortable place to begin reading and don’t worry about having to read your assignment quickly. Take a deep breath, maybe grab a cup of tea and prepare to embark on a wonderful journey.

Don’t worry about every word the first time through

Have a dictionary handy and look up the words that you really have to the first time through. Don’t get frustrated. Let the reading flow and read it the first time to get the basic ideas.

What literary form are we dealing with?

Where and when does the action take place?

Who is the author and when did he or she write this piece?

What are the characters like?

What is happening?

Enjoy!

EnjoyAs you read, enjoy the sound of the words and the flow of the narrative. Reading aloud or to someone else is a great way to really savor the language.

Focus on the positiveAs you are reading, consciously note the things that interest you about the reading, the things you can apply to your own life and the important message the author is seeking to convey.

Read carefullyWorks of literature must usually be read more than once. This is normal and should not be painful as the reader gains more understanding and enjoyment each time he or she reads the piece. Once you have read for a basic understanding, go back and make sure you have noted all the details and look up any words that are still giving you trouble in that dictionary you have handy.

Read carefullyI will go back to what I was saying in the beginning. Don’t hurry through your reading. Read carefully, calmly and as slowly as you need to in order to understand and savor what you have at hand.

Again, enjoy!I hope these tips have helped you gain insight into how to approach your reading assignments. Happy reading!