1. Summarizing

2. A Definition
To summarize is to put in your own words a shortened version of written material, stating the central ideas and omitting everything that is not essential.
Summarizing is more than retelling; it involves analyzing information, distinguishing important from unimportant elements, and translating large chunks of information into a few short cohesive sentences.

3. Why is it Important? Summarizing:
allows students to monitor comprehension
helps students understand organizational structure of texts
is a skill at which most adults must be proficient to be successful

4. How often do you Summarize?
Think about these questions:
Hey, what did you do last weekend?
That book looks good. What’s it about?
What happened in the game last night?
Okay, tell me what he said?
So, what are your plans over break?
Now, turn to your neighbor and answer this question:
What did you do after school yesterday?

5. Stick to the Facts!
Summaries should be objective and free of any personal opinions.
Ask yourself:
Who is involved?
What is going on? What was the outcome?
When is it happening?
Where does it take place?

6. To Summarize Nonfiction:
1. Skim the text:
Look for THIEVES
Try to get a sense of the central ideas
2. Perform a close reading:
Distinguish important information from unimportant information
Learn the central ideas

7. To Summarize Nonfiction:
3. Write your summary:
Include central ideas
Eliminate opinions/nonessential facts
Recount the entire text
Use your own words!

8. Example:
"Last night, the San Francisco Giants beat the Atlanta Braves 3-1, to win the National League Division Series. Barry Bonds hit his third home run of the series in the fourth inning against pitcher Kevin Millwood. The Braves had a chance to win in the ninth inning, but Sheffield struck out with two men on base, and Jones grounded into a double play."