3 - Reading and Communication Skills Flashcards

This deck covers identifying main ideas and supporting details, summarizing/paraphrasing, and understanding language in context. It addresses text organization, fact vs. opinion, inferences, writing purposes, audience adaptation, and revision strategies.

1
Q

Define:

Main idea

Literature

A

The point that a writer is trying to make about the topic.

A topic refers to the content of what the selection is about.

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2
Q

Explain:

3 questions to help a reader find the main idea.

A
  1. What is the main point the author is trying to make?
  2. What is the most important information in this text?
  3. What is the author’s overall message or argument?
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3
Q

Identify:

The difference between the topic and the main idea.

A
  • The topic is what a work is entirely about.
  • The main idea is a general idea that the writer tries to convey.

The main idea is often a single-sentence summary.

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4
Q

Define:

Theme

Literature

A

The message, lesson or moral that the writer is trying to convey.

Example: Destiny vs. free will.

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5
Q

Identify:

How many main ideas can a piece of literature have?

A

one

In contrast, there can be multiple themes in a piece of literature.

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6
Q

Identify:

The first step in finding the main idea of a work.

A

Identifying the specific topic.

This is often found in the topic sentence.

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7
Q

Explain:

In order to find the main idea, what should a reader do first?

A

Determine what the writer is trying to say about the topic.

This involves asking what the author wants the reader to know.

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8
Q

Identify:

The last step in finding a main idea.

A

Combine the identified topic and the author’s message into one sentence.

This sentence will summarize the work’s main idea.

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9
Q

Identify:

Clues that help determine the main idea of a piece of literature.

A
  • Initial or concluding parts.
  • Patterns in the plot.
  • Character exposition.

These clues guide readers to understand the overall topic.

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10
Q

Define:

supporting details

A

Specific pieces of information that support the main idea or topic sentence.

They validate or expand on the main idea.

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11
Q

Identify:

Location of supporting details in an essay.

A

They most often follow the topic sentence or thesis statement.

Supporting details reinforce, validate or expand on the main idea.

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12
Q

Identify:

What types of supporting details are commonly used in informational essays?

A
  • Facts and evidence
  • Reasons and explanations
  • Definitions and vocabulary
  • Descriptions and details
  • Anecdotes and examples
  • Testimonials and quotes

The type of supporting details varies depending on the author’s purpose.

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13
Q

Identify:

The role of supporting details in fiction writing.

A

They help to paint a clearer picture of the main idea.

This ensures a uniform image is created for all readers.

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14
Q

Identify:

A type of supporting detail used in persuasive essays.

A

testimonials and quotes

They help to bolster the credibility of the argument.

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15
Q

Identify:

A type of supporting detail that uses a personal story.

A

anecdotes and examples

They provide real-life instances that support the main idea.

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16
Q

Identify:

The type of supporting detail that supports an argument.

A

reasons and explanations

Opinions fall under this type of supporting details.

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17
Q

Explain:

How do definitions and vocabulary help clarify a main idea?

Definitions and vocabulary are a type of supporting detail.

A

They define complicated or confusing terms.

This helps readers understand the main idea better.

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18
Q

Define:

major supporting details

A

Details that help to clarify the main idea of the essay.

They are essential for understanding the main concept.

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19
Q

Define:

minor supporting details

A

Details that help to clarify the major supporting details.

They provide additional context but do not directly support the main idea.

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20
Q

Explain:

How do supporting details relate to and prove the main idea in a story?

A
  • Provide evidence: offer concrete proof for the main idea.
  • Explain and elaborate: explain how or why the main idea is true, providing deeper understanding and insight.
  • Make the idea more believable: make the main idea more convincing and easier for the reader to accept.
  • Create a clearer picture: help the reader visualize and understand the main idea more fully.
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21
Q

Define:

summary

A

A short statement that summarizes or informs the audience of the main ideas of a longer piece of writing.

Summaries often appear at the end of literature to give an overview of the main themes.

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22
Q

Describe:

What should a summary include?

A

Main ideas and a brief overview, without unnecessary details.

It should not give away the entire plot, especially in the case of books.

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23
Q

Identify:

Steps to draft an effective summary.

A
  • Thoroughly read through the main text.
  • Identify the main ideas.
  • Write from memory to avoid plagiarism.
  • Start with a thesis statement.
  • Review and compare with the main work.
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24
Q

Explain:

The purpose of an author tag in a summary.

A

To introduce the source and give a reason for its inclusion.

The format typically includes the author’s name, a reporting verb, and a quote or paraphrase.

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25
# Descrbe: The **general format** of an **author tag**.
Author's name + reporting verb + quote (if present) or paraphrase. ## Footnote A reporting verb expresses a manner of speaking. Example: "Articulates."
26
# Explain: Why are **summaries** written?
* To **attract readers**' attention. * To **present information** in a concise manner. * To **recap** important points for understanding.
27
# Identify: Types of **summaries**.
* Abstract * Epitome * Synopsis * Abridgment
28
# Define: abstract
**Brief description** (150-200 words) at the beginning of an article that **prepares the reader for the content** and helps them decide whether to continue reading.
29
# Define: epitome
It provides **only the most important information** from a piece, similar to an abstract, but **with very little detail**.
30
# Define: synopsis
A summary (500-1000 words) that **gives the full narrative of a piece**, often including **characters' emotions** or **reactions**. ## Footnote Commonly used in novel writing.
31
# Describe: abridgement
It **condenses** the **ideas**, **style** and **structure** of a work into a simplified version.
32
# Explain: How **long** is a traditional **summary**?
Normally about **one page in length**, ideally not exceeding two pages. ## Footnote A brief summary, like **an abstract**, is usually **shorter**, between a couple of sentences to a couple of paragraphs.
33
# Define: summarize
To **shorten** **something** and provide a concise description of the **main ideas**. ## Footnote It involves discussing the main topic and key ideas of the original text.
34
# Define: **Summary** of a book
A **brief overview** of the **main narrative** without revealing too many details. ## Footnote Example: J.R.R. Tolkien's *The Lord of the Rings: Fellowship of the Ring*.
35
# Explain: What is a **summary of a passage**?
It is **similar to summarizing a novel** but **focuses on less material**, often more specific and detailed. ## Footnote Example: A chapter summary from *The Fellowship of the Ring*.
36
# Define: paraphrase
To **take information** from a source and **put it into one's own words**, maintaining the original ideas. ## Footnote Paraphrasing is used in everyday life, often without awareness.
37
# Identify: The main difference between **paraphrases** and **summaries**.
**Paraphrases** are approximately the **same length as the original information**, while **summaries** are **shorter**. ## Footnote This length difference is a key characteristic in identifying each type.
38
# Identify: 3 main **types of paraphrases**
1. Paraphrasing to **bring clarity**. 1. Paraphrasing **to organize**. 1. Paraphrasing **for abstract or concrete understanding**. ## Footnote Each type serves a different purpose in the context of writing.
39
# Identify: 4 steps to take when **paraphrasing** a text
1. Ensure a **deep understanding** of the source material. 1. Restructure selected information into **own words**. 1. Make sure **original ideas remain intact**. 1. **Cite** the source.
40
# Define: plagiarism
The act of **using someone else's ideas**, words or work and **passing them off as one's own.** ## Footnote It can be blatant or subtle, but it is a serious academic offense.
41
# Explain: How does proper **paraphrasing help avoid plagiarism**?
By **transforming original ideas into new wording** while maintaining the **original intent** and **citing the source**. ## Footnote This ensures credit is given to the original author.
42
# Explain: Why are **citations** needed in **paraphrased work**?
**Citations reference original ideas** from the source material, **even if rephrased**. ## Footnote This allows readers to trace the information back to the original author.
43
# Identify: The most common **citation styles** used in **academic writing**.
* MLA (Modern Language Association) * APA (American Psychological Association) ## Footnote Different disciplines may favor different styles.
44
# Explain: What should be included in a **works cited page**?
**Details about the publication** of the original material and **where to find it**. ## Footnote This is essential for academic integrity.
45
# Explain: What does it mean to determine the meaning of a word using **context**?
To figure out **what a word means** **by examining other words** and sentences around it.
46
# Explain: 2 methods to figure out **word meanings** using **context**
1. Look for the **definition** of the word within the sentence. 2. Look for **examples of the word** within the sentence.
47
# Define: synonym
Word that means the **same** thing.
48
# Define.: antonym
Word that means the **opposite**.
49
# Explain: The **substitution method** in determining word meaning.
**Swapping out** the **unknown word** for a **familiar one** to see if it makes sense.
50
# Identify: **Methods** discussed for **using context** to determine **word meaning**.
* Look for the **definition**. * Look for **examples**. * Identify **synonyms** and **antonyms**. * Use **substitution**.
51
# Identify: 5 **organizational structures** of informational texts
1. Description 1. Sequence or chronology 1. Compare/contrast 1. Problem/solution 1. Cause and effect ## Footnote These structures help authors organize their ideas in expository texts.
52
# Explain: What is the purpose of **expository texts**?
To **inform** the reader. ## Footnote Expository texts are fact-based documents, such as news articles and scholarly journal articles.
53
# Identify: The **first step** for identifying the **organizational structure** of a **reading selection**.
Know the **signal words** associated with each type of organizational structure.
54
# Identify: **Signal words** for **sequence** or **chronology** structure.
* Before * First * Second * Third * Next * Then * Later * Finally
55
# Identify: **Signal words** for **compare/contrast** structure.
* Different * In contrast * Alike * Same as * On the other hand * Although * Both * Similarly * Likewise * However * But * In comparison * In the same way * Instead of
56
# Identify: **Signal words** used in the **description** organizational structure.
Description structures often include **sensory** details such as **sights**, **sounds**, **tastes** and **touch**.
57
# Identify: **Signal words** for **problem/solution** structure,
* The problem is * One way to resolve it * Difficulties * Solved * One solution is to
58
# Identify: **Signal words** for **cause/effect** structure.
* For this reason * Thus * Since * As a result * Consequently * Because of * May be due to
59
# Explain: What is the importance of identifying the **organizational structure** of an **informational text**?
It helps readers focus on **key concepts** and **relationships**, **predict** what's to come and improve **comprehension**. ## Footnote Understanding the structure enhances reading engagement and retention.
60
# Define: opinion
A **statement** expressing a belief, idea or emotion that is **not provable**. ## Footnote Opinions are **subjective** and cannot be proven true or false.
61
# Define: fact
A statement that **can be proven** beyond any doubt and is **objective**. ## Footnote Facts rely on **verifiable evidence**.
62
# Explain: How do **statistics** support reading and comprehension?
They offer concrete evidence and can demonstrate the scale or significance of something.
63
# Identify: **Difference** between **subjective** and **objective** statements.
* **Subjective** statements depend on **personal perception**. * **Objective** statements can be **verified** independently. ## Footnote **Opinions** are **subjective**; **facts** are **objective**.
64
# Identify: 2 **questions** that can help **determine** if a statement is a **fact** or an **opinion**
1. Can the statement be **proven** to be either true or false? 2. Does this statement refer to an author's personal **beliefs**, ideas or feelings about the topic? ## Footnote These questions help assess the nature of the statement.
65
# Define: inference
A process of **deduction** that involves **using existing information** to make educated **guesses** about missing pieces of information. ## Footnote Inferences are commonly used in daily life and literature.
66
# Explain: Why is making **inferences** important in reading?
It **engages audiences** by allowing them to deduce missing information. ## Footnote A book without inferences would likely be dull, as it would state every detail explicitly.
67
# Explain: The difference between **infer** and **imply**.
An **inference** is the **interpretation** of an **implication** made by the author. ## Footnote Readers infer what an author implies through their writing.
68
# Identify: **Skills** and **jobs** that require the ability to **infer** information.
* All branches of science * Philosophy * Medicine * Teaching * Writing * Designing ## Footnote These careers often involve critical thinking and analysis.
69
# Explain Primary **difference** between **inferences** and **assumptions**.
* **Inferences** are logically created from **existing information**. * **Assumptions** may involve biases and provide **new information**. ## Footnote Causal inferences are logical conclusions drawn from reasoned interpretations.
70
# Identify: Famous **works of literature** that require readers to **make inferences**.
* Moby-Dick * To Kill a Mockingbird * The Sun Also Rises * The Charioteer * Othello ## Footnote These works expect readers to draw conclusions based on subtle clues.
71
# Define: anecdote
Short, personal stories or accounts of real-life experiences.
72
# Explain: How do **anecdotes** support reading and communication skills for readers?
* They add a human element to the topic, making it more engaging and memorable. * They can provide emotional weight to the main idea.
73
# Explain: What is a **red herring** in literature?
A **deceptive piece of information** that leads audiences to make **incorrect inferences**. ## Footnote In mysteries, this literary device can mislead readers about a character's guilt.
74
# Describe: **ladder** of **inference**
A model that involves reviewing **background information**, asking **questions**, making **predictions** and drawing **conclusions**. ## Footnote This model helps in the process of making logical inferences.
75
# Explain: How do **inferences** operate in the context of **scientific study**?
They are **explanations** of the meaning of **data**, **contrasting** with **factual observations**. ## Footnote Both are essential for understanding scientific findings.
76
# Explain: The purpose of making **inferences** in **social sciences**.
To **make connections** about the **past** and predict **future** events based on **available data**. ## Footnote This can involve estimating population figures or trends.
77
# Explain: drawing conclusions
To use the **information** provided to **make judgments**. | It is the same thing as making an **inference**. ## Footnote It involves using both explicit and implied information from the text.
78
# Explain: Why is **drawing conclusions** considered an important skill?
It helps in academic arenas and everyday life by allowing individuals to **interpret** and **respond to situations**. ## Footnote Examples include interpreting emotions from actions or behaviors.
79
# Identify: 2 factors a reader must consider to **draw a conclusion**.
1. **Details** provided or implied **in the text**. 1. Reader's **prior knowledge** and experiences. ## Footnote These factors work together to enable logical conclusions.
80
# Explain: How can **beginning readers** learn to **draw conclusions**?
By having texts **read aloud** to them and **answering simple questions** about what was read. ## Footnote This interaction helps them connect background knowledge with the text.
81
# Explain: What is the **purpose** of a **text**?
The **writer's reason** for writing. ## Footnote Every piece of writing has a purpose, which motivates writers to write.
82
# Identify: 3 **purposes** for writing.
1. To entertain. 1. To inform. 1. To persuade. ## Footnote Writers may choose from a variety of purposes that usually fall into these three categories.
83
# Identify: The **type** of texts created primarily to **entertain**.
Imaginative works like **novels**, **stories** or **poems**. ## Footnote These texts may also make observations about human nature but the entertainment factor is primary.
84
# Describe: **Purpose** of **informative** writing.
To provide **facts** about a topic deemed important for the reader to understand. ## Footnote Informative writing is usually clear and well-organized.
85
# Identify: **Types** of writing with the purpose of **instructing**.
* Instruction manuals * How-to books * Recipes ## Footnote These types of writing offer a series of steps to accomplish a specific task.
86
# Explain: What does **descriptive** writing **provide**?
**Sensory details** that allow readers to form a **mental picture**. ## Footnote Examples include eye-witness accounts or personal essays.
87
# Describe: Primary **goal** of **persuasive writing**.
To **convince readers** to adopt a particular belief or to act in a certain way. ## Footnote This type of writing includes advertisements and political speeches.
88
# Identify: **Purpose** of a text offering a series of **steps** to **accomplish a task**.
To instruct. ## Footnote This indicates that the text is meant to guide the reader through a process.
89
# Explain: How can readers **identify** the **purpose** of a text?
By **asking** a series of guiding **questions** about its **main characteristics**. ## Footnote This helps determine why the writer is writing and how the reader should respond.
90
# Explain: writing process
A series of **actions** taken by writers to **move** from an **assignment** or **idea** to a **polished product**. ## Footnote The writing process includes stages such as gathering ideas, organizing thoughts, writing, revising, and rewriting.
91
# Identify: 5 **steps** of the **writing process**.
1. Prewriting 1. Drafting 1. Revising 1. Editing 1. Publishing ## Footnote These steps help in generating, organizing, writing about, and reviewing ideas for an essay.
92
# Define: prewriting
* **First step** in the writing process. * Includes **planning activities before producing a formatted document**. ## Footnote Prewriting activities may involve topic selection, research, brainstorming, thesis development, and organization.
93
# Define: drafting
* **Second step** in the writing process. * Involves **writing for the first time** ideas, goals and information organized in prewriting. ## Footnote Writing a full draft allows for complete feedback and reduces future work.
94
# Explain: Goal of **revising**.
To **examine the content** of the text and **make necessary adjustments**. ## Footnote This includes checking if the content supports the thesis and if the organization is logical.
95
# Identify: What should writers focus on during the **editing** phase?
* Spelling * Grammar * Subject/verb agreement * Sentence structure * Punctuation * Redundancy * Ambiguity * Consistency ## Footnote Editing focuses on correcting mechanical errors identified during the revision phase.
96
# Explain: What does **publishing** involve?
* Preparing the **final product** for the audience. * Includes **formatting details** like title pages and page numbers. ## Footnote The publishing step ensures that all instructions for the assignment have been fulfilled.
97
# Identify: Activities included in the **prewriting** stage.
* Topic selection * Research * Brainstorming * Thesis development * Organization ## Footnote Brainstorming methods can include freewriting, graphic organizers, lists, and pictures.
98
# Explain: What is the **drafting** step in the writing process?
* Create the **first version** or **draft** of the text. * Focus on **content** and **organization** rather than mechanics. ## Footnote The first draft should follow the outline developed during prewriting.
99
# Explain: **Purpose** of **brainstorming** in the writing process.
To figure out the **topic** and **generate ideas** about it. ## Footnote Brainstorming can involve writing down ideas quickly **without worrying about perfection**.
100
# Identify: 2 types of **feedback** writers receive during **revising** and **editing**.
1. Content and format 1. Grammar and mechanics ## Footnote Both types of feedback are essential for polishing the paper.
101
# Identify: **3 tasks** involved in **editing for content**.
1. Ensure your writing answers the **original question**. 1. Make sure main points align with the **thesis statement**. 1. Ensure **proper flow** in your writing.
102
# Identify: 3 areas of focus on when **editing for mechanics**.
1. **Spelling** and **grammar** 1. Proper citing of **sources** 1. Following assignment **parameters**
103
# Identify: **3 general rules** for effective **self-editing**.
1. **Set time aside** for editing. 1. Take a **break** before editing (if possible). 1. **Read** your paper **aloud** and **backward**.
104
# Identify: 2 **elements** that every piece of writing has.
1. Purpose 1. Audience ## Footnote Understanding these elements helps shape the writing process effectively.
105
# Describe: What **questions** should you **ask** to **determine your audience**?
* Is my audience of a certain **age**, **education** level or **profession**? * Does my audience **have background knowledge and understanding** about the **topic**? ## Footnote These questions help tailor the complexity and vocabulary of the writing.
106
# Identify: **Goal** of **knowing your purpose** when writing about a topic.
It helps you **decide** what **details** to **include** in your writing. ## Footnote The purpose can vary, such as to inform, argue or entertain.
107
# Identify: 4 **points** to keep in mind when writing for your **audience**.
1. Reader's **position**. 1. Reader's **perspective**. 1. Reader's level of **knowledge**. 1. Desired **takeaway** for the reader. ## Footnote These points help tailor writing to effectively communicate with the intended audience.
108
# Define: reader's position
The **reader's situation** with respect to the writer, such as being a superior or peer. ## Footnote Understanding the reader's position helps in **choosing** the appropriate **tone** and **style** for writing.
109
# Explain: How should the **tone** differ when writing for a **teacher** **compared** to texting a **friend**?
**Formal** tone for a **teacher**; **informal** tone for a **friend**. ## Footnote Formal writing avoids contractions and casual language, while informal writing allows for conversational elements.
110
# Explain: Why is it **important** to **consider** the **reader's perspective**?
It **influences** their **opinion** and **reaction** to the topic being discussed. ## Footnote Different audiences may have varying interests and biases that affect their reception of arguments.
111
# Explain: What should a writer **consider** regarding the **reader's level of knowledge**?
The **background information** needed, including **definitions** and explanations of **terms**. ## Footnote Tailoring content to the audience's knowledge prevents confusion and ensures clarity.
112
# Identify: The **primary objectives** or **purposes** when writing.
To **inform**, **persuade** or **entertain**. ## Footnote Achieving this involves demonstrating writing skills and knowledge effectively.
113
# Explain: What should a writer do to **fulfill** their **primary objective**?
**Consider the audience's** **characteristics** and tailor the writing accordingly. ## Footnote This ensures the writing meets its intended purpose effectively.
114
# Identify: The **secondary objective** in writing for an audience.
To create **a positive impression of the writer** based on the writing. ## Footnote Achieving this involves demonstrating writing skills and knowledge effectively.
115
# Identify: **Factors** that might determine a **reader's perspective** on an issue.
* Age * Experience * Personal interests ## Footnote These factors influence how a reader perceives and reacts to various topics.