Critical reading chart

Critical reading chart

1. Evaluative comprehension in reading

   • Ability to process information that we have read and understand its meaning.
     • Three levels of understanding:
       • Evaluative meaning is what the text tells us about the world outside the written component.
       • Evaluative comprehension requires the reader to move beyond the text to consider what they think and believe in relation to the message in the text.
       • Evaluative question prompts: an evaluative question prompts the reader to determine their agreement with the author's ideas based on their own knowledge, values, and experience.

2. Critical reading level

   • A reader applies certain processes, models, questions, and theories that result in enhanced clarity and comprehension.
     • CRTITICAL READING TECHNIQUES
       • Survey: This initial scan will tell you the author’s particular approach to the subject, and what the basic organizational structure will be.
       • Ask questions: Before beginning to read, take the subtitle of the section and turn it into a question.
       • Read actively: Read the words actively engaging in the text and trying to find the answers to your questions.
       • Respond to your own questions: Once you’ve read the section, close the textbook and answer your question in your own words.
       • Record key concepts: You need to record the information in some way: color code, highlight, make markings in the text or take notes.

3. Critical reading

   • Means advancing your understanding, not dismissing, and therefore closing off learning.
     • As critical reader you should reflect on:
       • What the text says / What the text describes / Interpretation of the text
   • Means being able to reflect on what a text says, what it describes and what it means by scrutinizing the style and structure of the writing, the language used as well as the content.

4. Critical Thinking is an Extension of Critical Reading

   • Thinking critically involves being open-minded - using judgement and discipline to process what you are learning about without letting your personal bias.
   • Critical thinking involves being rational and aware of your own feelings on the subject.
   • Critical reading and critical thinking are therefore the very foundations of true learning and personal development.
     • Someone with critical thinking skills can:
       • Understand the links between ideas.
       • Determine the importance and relevance of arguments and ideas.
       • Recognize, build and appraise arguments.