Unit 1: Tips For Active Reading

Your success as a writer is reflected in your ability as a reader.  That's why that in assessing your readiness for this course, you have exhibited proficiency in both reading as well as writing!

Key to effective reading is your ability to recognize main ideas in paragraphs, the basic unit for developing meaning in explanatory writing. This Unit examines basic patterns of paragraph development, each defined by the placement of the topic sentence and main idea of each paragraph.

Instructional Materials
Read the following "handouts" before you attempt the reading exercise, "Some Words About the Writing Process."

"The Organization of Main Ideas"

"Examples of Types of Paragraphs"

"Primary and Secondary Development in Paragraphs"

"Tips for Active Reading"

Readings in The Longman Writer
Read "Part 1: The Reading Process," pages 3-15.

Assignment
1) Complete the Diagnostic Exercise and submit an edited final draft of your essay.

2) Complete the reading exercise, "Some Words About the Writing Process."  Follow the directions at the top of the first page.  Submit a list of the main ideas.

Due Date for Submission
Submit the Diagnostic Exercise during Week 1.  Submit the Reading Exercise during Week 2.

Student Learning Outcomes
Student Learning Outcomes addressed in this exercise include the following:

1. Students will organize materials for writing from personal experience observation, interviews, and/or reading using an appropriate pattern of organization

.