4.4 Strategic Rereading
Rachel Cox-Vineiz, MA and Erin Thomas, MFA
Read, then Read Again
Often we think it is most productive to read a text once, and deeply, with our full concentration. The truth of the matter is that our concentration varies, and it’s difficult to summon that type of concentration every day every week during every semester of our college experience.
Even if we are that rare concentration guru, it’s more productive to read a text multiple times, different ways, with different purposes. We learn information through repetition. Besides, reading different ways at different times, gives us the opportunity to make the most of our varying levels of concentration. For example, when we are intellectually exhausted, it may be more productive to write down the key vocabulary in a chapter and the definitions because this is a task that requires low levels of higher-order thinking skills. The next day, after a good night’s sleep, we may find that perfect cozy corner to settle into for a nice, deep read.
Consider Table 4.4.1 Reading Strategy Ideas. Skim through each of the strategy categories, identifying ideas that may improve your rereading process.
| Strategy Type | Ideas |
|
🔁 Pre-Reading Prep
|
– Skim the headings and bolded terms first |
| – Set a clear purpose: “Why am I reading this?” | |
| – Predict what the text will be about | |
|
🧘♀️ Mind-Body Reset
|
– Do 10 jumping jacks or push-ups before starting |
| – Walk around the block or climb a set of stairs | |
| – Do a 1-minute deep-breathing or grounding exercise | |
|
🧃 Fuel Your Brain
|
– Eat crunchy snacks like almonds, carrots, or apples. The chewing can stimulate dopamine and help focus. |
| – Stay hydrated—drink water before and during reading | |
| -Eat blueberries or other berries to improve your brain function. | |
|
📖 While Reading
|
– Highlight or underline key points |
| – Take notes in the margins or in a notebook | |
| – Use sticky notes for questions, surprises, or connections | |
|
🎧 Multisensory
|
– Read aloud or whisper the text |
| – Use a text-to-speech tool and follow along | |
| – Record yourself reading and listen back | |
|
👀 Active Strategies
|
– Paraphrase a section after reading it |
| – Create a quick sketch or diagram of ideas | |
| – Use a whiteboard to map the main points | |
|
🤝 Social Learning
|
– Teach the content to a peer or friend |
| – Discuss a confusing part with someone | |
| – Join a study group or class reading group | |
|
⏳ Timed Sprints
|
– Set a timer for 15 minutes of focused reading |
| – Then take a short break (stretch, snack, move) | |
| – Repeat as often as necessary | |
|
📓 After Reading
|
– Write a 1-sentence summary of each paragraph |
| – Make a list of 3 key takeaways | |
| – Create questions you’d ask the author or instructor | |
|
🛑 When You’re Stuck
|
– Step away and move your body |
| – Change locations (go outside, switch rooms) | |
| – Listen to classical music or brown noise in the background |
Instructions
- Read through Table 4.4.1 Reading Strategy Ideas.
- During your next study session, apply some of the strategies from the table.
- Select a text from another class or use the sample textbook chapter, “Historical Basis of Modern Understanding” contained in 4.2 Reacting to Your ReadingLinks to an external site.. If you’ve read part of this article before, select a new section to read
- Fill out at least 8 lines in the Reading Strategy Template by applying at least 8 strategies.
Assignment: Reading Strategy Template
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