PHYS 280 :: Physics Illinois :: University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
Reading Assignments
Reading assignments are to be completed by the dates listed in the table below. They may be the subject of in-class questions for credit and questions on the Midterm and Final Examinations. Note: We will use TopHat for clicker questions (as well as lecture slides).
Reading assignments are divided between those that cover basic course content and those that discuss current events. These different types of reading assignments are posted separately in the table, but both are required. Please be sure to check here regularly for new additions.
Scroll down to find strategies that can help you to read more efficiently and to find questions that will help you learn more about writing as you read.
Efficient Reading Strategies
Step 1: Perform Task Analysis
Why am I reading this? Use your identified reading purpose to choose an efficient reading strategy, from less to more detailed and in one, two, or three separate passes. You should read actively and critically no matter which reading strategy you choose.
Step 2: Depending on Your Purpose for Reading, Choose a Reading Strategy
- Develop High-Level View of Research Field, Identify Useful Approach(es), & Choose Sources from Identified Approach(es)
Skimming: reading for content (to gain an overview, identify main idea)
read abstract, intro, conclusion
- Develop Your Perspective and Build Your Argument
Scanning: reading for structure (to gain specific information)
after skimming, read headings, charts and tables, and words and phrases related to your topic
- Identify Reasoning & Evidence
Close Reading: reading for language, calculations, etc.; (to gain understanding of specific positions and evidence)
after skimming and scanning, read results, discussion, and then middle sections for details
Learning From Good Writing
One way to improve your writing is to study examples of good writing by others and to read actively and critically as a general habit. Here are some questions to ask yourself while you are reading and after, to reflect on what you have read. These questions will help you to think about the choices writers make and call to your attention writing techniques that you can use in your own work.
- How did the author grab your attention and make you want to read on?
The first thing you saw was the title. Did it catch your eye? If so, why?
Did the first sentence interest you further? If so, how?
Did the first paragraph make you want to read onward? If so, why? - How did the author structure the article or essay?
Was there an introductory paragraph or paragraphs?
Were there a series of main points? If so, how were they identified?
How did the author end the article or essay? - How did the author communicate the main points of the article or essay?
Did the author ask and then answer a question or a series of questions?
Illustrate one or more points with a story or anecdote?
List the main points and then elaborate?
Or...? - How did the ending serve the purpose of the article or essay?
Was there a summary of the main points made?
An appeal for the reader to act?
A dramatic claim?
Or...? - Maintaining a critical attitude reading any essay, article, or opinion piece, it is important to maintain a critical attitude and be alert to accidental or deliberate misuse of language. Language is a tool for thinking clearly as well as a vital mode of communication. If language becomes corrupted, communication becomes difficult and clarity of thought suffers. Particularly insidious is deliberate corruption of language to deceive or mislead the reader.