Tips for when I don't know words by AGS Publishing

• if the word is boldface, look for the definition on the word at the bottom of the page
• if the word is not boldface, read to the end of the sentence and maybe the next sentence.  Can you determine the unknown word now?
• Look at the beginning sound of the unknown word
• Ask yourself, "what word would make sense here that begins with this sound?"
• Sound out the syllabiles of the word
• If you still cannot determine the unknown word, see if you know any parts of the word: prefixes, suffixes, or roots.
• If this does not work, write the word in the glossary section of your notebook and look it up in the dictionary after you have finshed reading the selection.
• If the word is necessary to understand the passage, look it up in a dictionary or glassary immediately.

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?

How do I read? tips by AGS Publishing

Strategies:
Before beginning reading:

• read the selection's title
• look at the pictures and other visuals
• read the background material that may be provided
• predict what you think the selection is goin gto be about
• ask yourself questions about the material

As you read:

• Think about the predictions that you made before reading.  Were you right?
• Make new predictions as you read
• Read the notes in teh side columns (if provided).
• Think of people or events in your own life that are similar to those described.
• Reread sentences or paragraphs that you don't understand.
• Refer to a dictionary if you don't know words
• In a notebook or on notecards, record definitions of words that you do not know.

After you read:

• Think about the quesitons that you asked yourself before you read.  Were your answers to these questions right?
• Reread interesting or difficult parts of the selection
• Paraphrase what you read
• use graphic organizers to help you organize and remember information