|
writing in the disciplines
biology main > assignments > reading textbooks
reading biology textbooks
A biology textbook may be read chapter-by-chapter through the course of a class; it may be read section-by-section for particular concepts; or it may be read like a reference book to look up a specific term or theory.
When reading an entire chapter, it is often helpful to read the introduction and then to read the conclusion. These two sections will explain what the chapter is about and what readers should learn by the end, providing a roadmap for the reading process.
advice for active and successful textbook reading
Avoid highlighting.
Although highlighting can feel productive, the resulting undifferentiated swaths of yellow can in fact hinder your ability to make sense of the material you are reading, particularly when you return to the text to review for an exam.
Paraphase key concepts and ideas.
Rather than highlighting key concepts, try paraphrasing them in your own words, taking notes in the margins or on a separate sheet of paper. If you can paraphrase in your own words, this is a good sign that you really understand the material. Another advantage of paraphrasing over highlighting is that when it is time to write, you are less likely to make common errors of unintentional plagiarism—you will already have your own words ready to use.
Ask questions of the text.
Writing out your questions allows you to articulate precisely what it is that you don't understand, and it helps you ask your instructor productive questions.
example of an annotated textbook page (under construction)
|
