A combination of instructional methods will be used in order to balance instructional efficiency with individual student needs. Small group instruction, individual assistance in lab tutorial or scheduled appointments) and student directed learning will be selected where appropriate and possible. Collaborative learning will be encouraged.
Literal
- identification of subject/topic, main ideas, supporting details, and sequence.
Interpretive
- reconstruction of the meaning intended by the writer
- categorization and classification
- summarization
Inferential
- Synthesis - integration of experience and knowledge to gain new understanding and to predict.
Critical
- recognition of comparison and contrast, cause/effect, outcome or sequence
- distinction between fact and opinion, logical and illogical
- identification of writer's point of view, tone, attitude and underlying assumptions
- development of critical thinking skills, i.e.: appreciation, judgment, character analysis.
Strategies
- purpose for reading
- previewing/surveying--initial overview of large sections of text (chapters, etc.)
- prereading--overview of shorter sections of text
- monitoring--evaluation of current level of understanding
- reflecting--evaluation of comprehension in retrospect.
Discussion Topics
Students will acquire background information and vocabulary from selected readings on current topics. These weekly topics for discussion will vary in order to meet students' needs and interests.
The aims of the course are for students to:
- develop specific strategies to improve reading comprehension;
- enlarge vocabulary to fulfill reading needs;
- increase background knowledge by developing awareness of current topics and concerns;
- acquire an ability to orally present information obtained from reading
A mastery model of on-going evaluation will be used. A student will have completed the course when he/she has demonstrated through satisfactory completion of exercises and assignments that the course objectives have been achieved.
Progress will be monitored on a regular basis by the instructor in consultation with each student.
The student will be expected to maintain regular attendance and progress and to undertake independent learning as directed. Regular feedback and informal progress reports will be available from the instructor.
Textbooks and Materials to be Purchased by Students:
Students are required to supply a three-ring binder, paper, pen and pencil.
Students may be required to purchase textbooks.
ENGU 0156 or permission of instructor