Steps
1. Establish your purpose. You'll have a hard time hitting a target that you're blind to.
- An example of a good purpose is, "Experience this character's feelings during the course of this book" or "Figure out exactly what I don't know about this subject."
- Setting a purpose "activates" your brain. When you have a clear purpose, your brain searches for all the references and ideas it can that will help you achieve your purpose.
2. Find a small place where you can set up your reading center. Make sure it's comfortable and has good lighting. A small table nearby is handy. You can even add a small box full of book favorites by the couch.
3.Always choose a book that you enjoy! Reading a small section of a book is good, and if thinking of buying a book, why not head to your local library and check it out? Different genres appeal to different readers, so browse around.
- You might prefer an audiobook.
- If you found it boring because it was too hard try a easier one.
Imagine in your mind the setting of what you're reading. If you are reading something like the "The Clique," imagine what the characters are feeling.
Imagine what would happen in the situation if you were there. If Junie B. Jones was making mischief, would you make the situation brighter or dimmer?
7.Visualize the characters. Your version doesn't have to match what the author describes exactly, and it's okay if they have the face of somebody you know.
8.Enjoy a snack with your book. Pick some delicious food such as parfaits, salad, fruit smoothie, or even chopped up fruit. This trick can raise your mood. A special drink is nice, too - hot chocolate, lemonade, tea, etc.
9.
Get comfortable. If it is a rainy day, cuddle up with a blanket and a favorite stuffed animal. It will make you feel appreciated.
10. Put yourself in the main character's shoes. Example: In that situation, I would... If you remember a similar situation think about what you did in it, and compare to a character's decision.
TIPS FOR YOU
- If you read a lot, you will know more words. It will also advance your vocabulary. It's helpful to keep a dictionary nearby and look up new words as they come up.
- Keep a book journal. Just jot down a brief summary and what you thought of the book. Maybe even a quote or two. At a later date, you'll be happy to have this information close at hand. And it can be fun to look back at your opinions once you've finished reading.
- Some people find that writing in their books helps them concentrate and enjoy the book more. You can mark favorite passages, underline words you don't understand, note questions in the margins, etc. Only do this if you own the book, of course!
- If you've found a book you enjoyed reading, or have questions about, ask a friend to read it, and discuss it together. This can lead to increased enjoyment and understanding of the book. If you find you really enjoy this, you might be interested in joining a book club.
- Try listening to music or wear headphones while reading. It may be soothing and help you relax more. Then again, it may be too much of a distraction. Experiment to see what suits *you* best.
- Visit the local library and check out books every week. That way, you won't have to spend money to read the newest book by Anne Mazer.
- Shop at bookstores such as Borders, Angus & Robertson, Waterstone's, Whitcoulls or Barnes and Noble. Usually, they have great books for less. Local used book stores are also great sources of inexpensive books.
- If you're having trouble figuring out what genre you like try asking around. Your friends probably have the same interests as you, or an employee at the guest services or register could probably point you in the right direction.
No comments:
Post a Comment