Predict what the text will say before reading. Students base predictions on graphics, sub-titles and section titles. Using these predictions as a guide, students create an outline of what they think the text will say.
Locate familiar and unfamiliar information on the outline. If students have listed a concept that they already understand, they should place a check beside it. If students have listed a new concept, they should place a question mark.
Add information to the outline during the reading. Students should add facts that confirm what they already knew and that explain what they did not. This information does not need to be written in sentence form but can be communicated in single words and phrases.
Note how well the reading corresponds with the outlines. If major changes need to be made, have students rewrite their outlines and brainstorm ways to make more accurate predictions in the future. Discuss the key points of the reading as a class and consider making a master outline on the board for all to see and use as a study guide.