IELTS READING: SKIM AND SCAN STRATEGIES
The IELTS Reading section is designed to assess your ability to understand and interpret written English quickly and effectively. With only 60 minutes to read three lengthy passages and answer 40 questions, mastering the techniques of skimming and scanning is essential for success. These strategies help you manage your time and locate information efficiently without reading every word in detail.
What is Skimming?
Skimming is the process of reading quickly to get a general idea of the content, structure, and main points of a passage. The goal is not to understand every detail but to form a mental map of the text.
SKIM AND SCAN STRATEGIES
How to Skim Effectively:
1. Read the Title and Subheadings: These provide clues about the topic and organization.
2. Read the First Sentence of Each Paragraph: This often contains the main idea.
3. Glance at Keywords: Look for repeated words, bold or italicized terms, names, dates, and numbers.
4. Ignore the Details: Don’t get stuck on unfamiliar vocabulary at this stage.
When to Use Skimming:
– At the beginning of each passage to understand the general theme.
– Before answering “matching headings” or “main idea” questions.
– To decide which parts of the passage are relevant to specific questions.
What is Scanning?
Scanning is a technique used to find specific information quickly, such as names, dates, figures, or particular words mentioned in the question. Unlike skimming, you know what you’re looking for before you begin.
SKIM AND SCAN STRATEGIES
How to Scan Effectively:
1. Identify Keywords in the Question: Underline important terms or phrases in the question stem.
2. Use Your Eyes Efficiently: Move your eyes down the page in a zigzag or vertical motion without reading every word.
3. Look for Visual Clues: Numbers, capital letters, or unique words often stand out.
4. Check the Context: Once you find the keyword, read around it to understand its meaning in context.
SKIM AND SCAN STRATEGIES
When to Use Scanning:
– To locate information for “true/false/not given,” “multiple choice,” or “short answer” questions.
– When searching for dates, places, names, or specific facts.
– After skimming, when you know the general location of information.
Combining Skimming and Scanning
Both strategies are most effective when used together. Start with a quick skim of the entire passage to understand the structure and content. Then, use scanning to locate the specific part of the text that answers each question.
SKIM AND SCAN STRATEGIES
Practical Tips for Skim and Scan Strategy:
1. Practice Under Timed Conditions: Simulate test conditions to improve speed and accuracy.
2. Develop Keyword Recognition: Practice identifying synonyms and paraphrases, as IELTS often rephrases information in the passage.
3. Use the Question Order: Questions generally follow the order of the text, so once you’ve answered one, scan forward rather than backward.
4. Avoid Overreading: Don’t waste time reading entire paragraphs if you only need one piece of information.
5. Mark the Text: Use a pencil to underline or circle keywords as you scan. This keeps you focused.
SKIM AND SCAN STRATEGIES
Common Mistakes to Avoid:
– Reading Too Slowly: Avoid reading word-for-word, especially during the first skim.
– Ignoring the Questions: Always use the questions to guide your reading.
– Misidentifying Keywords: Be careful with words that look similar but have different meanings in context.
– Skipping the Skim: Diving straight into questions without a general understanding of the text can lead to confusion and wasted time.
Mastering skimming and scanning techniques is essential for succeeding in the IELTS Reading test. With practice, you can improve your ability to locate and understand information quickly, helping you answer more questions accurately within the time limit. Make these strategies a key part of your reading preparation to gain a valuable edge on test day.
SKIM AND SCAN STRATEGIES
SKIM AND SCAN STRATEGIES