Introduction:
When learning a new language, reading is an essential skill. In particular, the English reading test plays a fundamental role in assessing your level. To prepare effectively, we offer valuable strategies and tips that will not only improve your reading comprehension skills but also propel you toward success on your exam.
Chapter 1: Read As Much As You Can in English
The first tip for improving your reading skills is simple but effective: read as much as possible in English. Whether it's getting into the habit of reading the English news in the morning or enjoying movies with English subtitles, familiarizing yourself with everyday expressions will be beneficial.
- Read for Fun: Keep reading connected to fun. Your English reading test can be an opportunity to return to your favorite stories and enjoy them in English. Start with short texts you already know to make reading easier and more enjoyable.
- Persists in the face of ignorance: If you come across an unfamiliar word, don't stop. Keep reading, as you're likely to grasp the main ideas as you progress through the text, even if some words are difficult. Rereading paragraphs can be beneficial in unraveling the meaning.
- Write down the Unknown Words: Keep a record of words you don't understand and then look up their meaning in a dictionary or ask a friend.
- Value of Reading in Learning: Remembering that reading not only improves your reading skills, but also your grammar and ability to express yourself in English, can help you overcome moments of frustration.
Chapter 2: Strategies to Increase Your Reading Level
Some specific strategies can boost your English reading skills and make it easier to retain information.
- Reserve Time for Reading: It's essential to designate a specific space and time for reading. A pleasant environment and quiet hours will allow you to concentrate and improve your skills for the reading exam.
- Choose a Reading Strategy: Two popular strategies are PRR (Preview, Read, Recall) and SQ3R (Survey, Question, Read, Recite, Review). The former focuses on actions taken before starting a text, while the latter proposes five steps to improve concentration and information retention.
- Scan the Text: Skim through the text, looking for ideas that capture your attention and determining its structure.
- Test Your Understanding: At the end of each section of the text, ask yourself, "What is the main idea?" to assess your understanding.
- Take Notes While You Read: Taking notes while reading keeps you engaged with the text and makes it easier to remember the main ideas.
- Take Reading Tests: Use online tools, such as reading tests, to put the learned strategies into practice.
Remember that on your English reading test, the answers are found in the text. Identifying main ideas, making connections between them, and paraphrasing are key skills for improving your performance. Native English offers you the support you need to practice these skills and achieve success on your English reading test. Get ready to master reading and advance your learning with confidence!