1. Getting to Grips with Reading Some strategies

2. Academic reading It has a purpose There is a lot of it. The language of the texts you are reading may be dense and complicated. It has to be active and purposeful There is usually a deadline It can be thrilling

3. Handle it by Building up the speed of your reading Developing your understanding of more complex texts Remembering what you have read Keeping records of what you have read

4. Strategies: Speed Be selective- this is vital. SMART targets. Is the information in a chapter- how much do you need to read? Skim the text. Move your eyes over it. Keep your eyes moving. Look for key words and opening sentences. Check for clues, the introduction, abstract and conclusion, before worrying about the details. Use colour- highlighters and stickers. But again- selectively.

5. Speed Examine your reading habits: build an exercise regime. Stay engaged with the text- read for shorter periods rather than extended ones Where do you read? Exercise the skill and stretch yourself. Build your lexicon: use dictionaries

6. Strategies: Understanding Think about what you are looking for. Re-read difficult paragraphs and passages. Slow down. Build your lexicon. Use dictionaries. Interact with the text. Making effective notes- Write the information in your own words. Use diagrams, symbols.

7. Understanding Argue with the text. What is the premise? Is it flawed? Is there an argument? What is the author trying to tell you? What sort of evidence is the author using? Academic conventions? Ask who? Who? What? Why? Be critical in a constructive way.

8. Remembering Record keeping: so you can find what you read again. Index cards? Note making: in your own words. Timing Referencing: avoid plagiarism at all costs. Keep bibliographical details. Show your reading in your writing and other assignments.

9. SQ3R Survey Question Read Recall/Recite Review http://www.bbk.ac.uk/studyskills http://www.mybirkbeck/get-ahead- stay-ahead

10. SMART S elective M easurable A chievable R elevant T imed

11. Academic Reading Reading is work. It can be frustrating and you can become bored and distracted. You do not want to misread or misinterpret a text. It does become easier and you will use what you have read in your own writing. Effective, efficient and purposeful reading = pleasure and satisfaction.

12. And.. Do get an assessment for dyslexia ADHD Avoid stress Eye test? Use the Assistive Technology support services provided by the Library and IT services.