MAE R. HAMMOND'S

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SOUTH COLUMBUS HIGH SCHOOL

READING COMPETENCY

READING COMPREHENSION STRATEGIES

READING WITH A PURPOSE

Multiple-choice reading tests are all pretty much the same.  You read short and long selections, then you answer questions about what you read.  Some of the questions will ask you to remember details, some will ask for main ideas or important concepts, and some will ask you to use your  brain.

LEARN HOW TO DO A "FIRST READ" ON A SELECTION

The first time you read a selection, you must read every word.  Don't skim or skip over anything.  By reading every word, you'll learn what the selection is mainly about.  Don't be concern about every detail.  Try to get the feel for the main ideas and where things are mentioned in the selection.

LEARN HOW TO ANSWER THE DIFFERENT QUESTION TYPES

As you read, you will encounter different types of questions found on standardized reading tests.  You will be given tips and practice on how to answer the different question types.

Pay attention to directions and determine clearly what is being asked.  Apply what you have learned.

BASE YOUR ANSWERS ONLY ON WHAT IS IN THE SELECTION

You're being tested on how well you read, not on how much you know.

READ EVERY QUESTION CAREFULLY

Make sure you understand each question before you select your answer.  Don't jump ahead and select an answer before you've read the entire question and all the answer choices.

LEARN HOW TO GO BACK AND "SKIM" A SELECTION FOR THE RIGHT ANSWER

Skimming is an important skill on a reading test, but you need to know when to use it.  Never skim during the first reading.  After you've read the entire selection, the best way to find an answer is usually to skim to find key words.

ANSWER EVERY QUESTION, EVEN IF YOU HAVE TO GUESS

Even if you aren't sure of an answer, you should always make your best guess.  Before you guess, always eliminate answers that seem like they might be wrong.  By answering, you at least have a chance to get the question right.  Not answering is a guaranteed miss.

WRAP IT UP

By practicing the reading skills needed to meet our educational objectives, you will gain valuable experience with test formats.  Spend more time applying what you have learned in class.