How do I read specific types of literature? tips by AGS Publishing

When reading poetry:

• read the poem aloud
• listen to the sounds of the words
• picture the images the author is describing
• reread poems over and over again to appreciate the author's use of language

When reading essays:

• review the questions, if any before reading the piece
• make predictions
• remember that essays usually express an author's opinion. Try to understand how the author arrived at these opinions

When reading plays:

• picture the setting of the play. There is usually not much description. Try ot relate it to what you have seen before.
• Pay attention to the dialogue.  How does the dilogue reveal the characters' personality? Have you ever known anyone like this?  Are you like this?