Passive Activities:
* Simply staring at the text: This doesn't involve any active engagement with the material.
* Highlighting everything: While highlighting can be helpful, doing it indiscriminately doesn't improve comprehension.
* Reading without a purpose: If you're not actively trying to understand the text or answer a specific question, you're less likely to retain information.
* Relying solely on the dictionary: While looking up unfamiliar words is necessary, it shouldn't be your primary reading strategy.
Ineffective Approaches:
* Skimming too quickly: You need to spend enough time reading to process the information.
* Ignoring unfamiliar vocabulary: Encountering new words is part of reading. Try to figure out the meaning from context, or look it up.
* Assuming you understand everything: Always be ready to reread or slow down if you feel confused.
* Forgetting to check your understanding: You should actively engage with the text, asking yourself questions and summarizing what you've read.
Things That May Not Be Helpful:
* Multitasking while reading: This can significantly decrease your comprehension and retention.
* Reading in a distracting environment: Find a quiet place where you can focus on the text.
* Reading without breaks: Your brain needs time to process information.
In short, effective reading strategies involve active engagement with the text, critical thinking, and a focus on comprehension.