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Chapter 17: Reading in the Natural Sciences

Academic Reading,

Fifth Edition

by Kathleen T. McWhorter

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Learning Objectives: To understand the scientific approach To develop specialized reading techniques

for the sciences To learn to work with process, cause-and-

effect, classification, and problem/solution patterns

To adapt study strategies for the sciences

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The sciences focus on asking questions about our physical and biological world and seeking answers to those questions.

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Specialized Reading Techniques Preview Before Reading Adopt a Scientific Mind Set Learn Terminology and Notation Learn Symbols and Abbreviations Learn Everyday Words and Special

Meanings

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Specialized Reading Techniques

Read Section by Section

Study Sample Problems

Study and Draw Diagrams

Brush Up on Math Skills

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Thought Patterns in the Natural Sciences

Process Cause and Effect Classification Problem/Solution

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Thought Patterns in the Natural Sciences

Process and Cause/Effect List the steps. Draw diagrams or maps. Describe the process aloud.

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Thought Patterns in the Natural Sciences

Classification Determine what is being classified. Look for a summary sentence. On what basis is the classification

made? What characteristics do members of the

group share?

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Thought Patterns in the Natural Sciences

Problem/Solution1. Read the problem and identify what is

asked for.2. Make a drawing of the problem.3. State the principle of the problem.4. Calculate the solution.5. Analyze your answer.6. Review your solution process.

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Adapting Your Study Techniques Complete reading assignments before

attending lectures. Highlight your textbook selectively. Use outlining. Integrate your lab work with

the text and lectures.

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Adapting Your Study Techniques Use chapter problems as guides. Develop a weekly study plan. Prepare for exams.

Make lists of problems. Identify key laws and concepts. Determine emphasis of instructor. Prepare a practice test. Join a study group.

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If You Are Having Difficulty Use available resources. Make changes in your learning strategies. Learn from classmates. Double your study time. Purchase a review book or

use the CD-ROM with the book.

© 2004 Pearson Education, Inc., publishing as Longman Publishers

Summary Questions What are some specialized techniques for

reading the natural sciences? What are the four thought patterns

predominate in the sciences? What are some suggestions for adapting

study techniques in the sciences? What can you do if you are having

difficulty?

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Read the biology article and complete the exercises following the selection.

“Death Stars and Dinosaurs: The Great Extinctions” by Robert Wallace