Section: D Reading Skills

Introduction

Whether you are a student, a professional, or simply someone who wants to keep up
with the news, being able to read and understand what you are reading is essential.
Reading skill is the ability to read a text and understand its meaning. This includes
understanding the main idea of the text, as well as details and applications.

Reading Skill is a vital component of your training as a merchant navy officer. In the
maritime industry, effective reading skills are not just a tool for personal development
but a critical professional necessity. Reading and understanding safety manuals,
technical specifications, and international regulations are part and parcel of your daily
responsibilities. This chapter will guide you through techniques to enhance your
reading comprehension, speed, and accuracy, ensuring you can swiftly and
accurately interpret crucial information. By honing these skills, you'll be better
equipped to make informed decisions, maintain operational safety, and uphold the
highest standards of maritime professionalism.

1.1.1-Define the concept of reading

Reading is the cognitive process of interpreting and understanding written or printed

symbols, such as letters and words, in order to extract meaning from a text. It
involves the ability to decode written language, comprehend the meaning of the
words and sentences, and make sense of the information presented. Reading is a
complex skill that encompasses various sub-skills, including phonemic awareness,
phonics, vocabulary, fluency, and comprehension.
There are different levels of reading proficiency, ranging from basic decoding of words
to higher-level skills such as critical analysis, inference, and synthesis. The process
of reading typically involves the eyes scanning the text, the brain processing the
visual information, and the reader constructing meaning from the language used. It
is a crucial skill for acquiring knowledge, communication, and engaging with the world
through written texts.

Reading can take various forms, including reading silently to oneself, reading aloud,
or listening to someone else read. Additionally, it extends beyond traditional printed
materials to include digital texts, such as e-books, articles, and online content.

1.1.2-Explain the process of reading

The process of reading involves a complex set of cognitive activities that allow
individuals to understand and interpret written language. Here is an overview of the
key steps involved in the reading process:

1. Pre-Reading:
 Previewing: Before diving into the text, readers often preview the material
to get a sense of its structure, headings, and any visual elements (such as
images or charts). This helps set expectations and provides a context for
understanding.

2. Phonemic Awareness (for Beginners):

 In the early stages of learning to read, individuals develop phonemic
awareness, which involves recognizing and manipulating the sounds of
spoken language. This is a crucial step in connecting spoken and written
language.

3. Word Recognition:
  Readers identify and recognize words on the page. This can involve both
decoding (applying knowledge of sound-symbol relationships to pronounce
written words) and sight recognition (instantly recognizing familiar words
without decoding).

4. Vocabulary Comprehension:
 Understanding the meaning of individual words is essential for grasping the
overall meaning of a text. Readers draw on their vocabulary to comprehend
the author's intended message.

5. Comprehension:
 Readers actively engage with the text to understand its meaning. This
involves making connections between ideas, identifying main points, and
discerning the author's purpose and tone.

6. Critical Thinking:
 Beyond basic comprehension, skilled readers apply critical thinking skills.
They evaluate the text, consider different perspectives, and may question
the author's arguments or assumptions.

7. Context Clues:
 Readers use contextual information to infer the meaning of unfamiliar words
or phrases. This involves drawing on surrounding text to deduce the
intended meaning.
8. Reading Fluency:
 Fluent readers can read smoothly and at a reasonable pace, allowing for
better comprehension. Fluency comes with practice and involves a
combination of word recognition, phrasing, and expression.

9. Metacognition:
  Skilled readers engage in metacognition, which involves thinking about
one's own thinking processes. This includes monitoring comprehension,
recognizing when understanding breaks down, and employing strategies to
address challenges.

10. Reflection:
 After completing a reading, individuals may reflect on the material,
considering its relevance, implications, or connections to prior knowledge.
This reflection enhances understanding and retention.

It's important to note that the reading process is not strictly linear, and readers may
cycle back and forth between these steps as they encounter new information or
encounter difficulties. Additionally, individual differences in background knowledge,
experience, and skill level can impact the reading process.

1.1.3-Describe different kinds of texts. (User Manuals, Manufacturer's

Manuals, Engineering Publications)

Different kinds of texts serve various purposes and cater to specific audiences. Here
are descriptions of three types of texts: User Manuals, Manufacturer's Manuals, and
Engineering Publications:

1. User Manuals:

 Purpose: User manuals are designed to guide end-users on how to use a

particular product or system. They provide step-by-step instructions, often
accompanied by illustrations, to help users set up, operate, troubleshoot,
and maintain the product.
  Audience: End-users or consumers who have purchased the product and
need assistance in using it effectively and safely.

 Content: User manuals typically include information on product features,

installation procedures, operational guidelines, troubleshooting tips,
maintenance instructions, and safety precautions.

 Language: The language used in user manuals is clear, concise, and user-
friendly, avoiding technical jargon whenever possible.

2. Manufacturer's Manuals:

 Purpose: Manufacturer's manuals are comprehensive guides created by the

product or equipment manufacturer. They provide in-depth technical
information about the product, including specifications, design details, and
maintenance procedures.

 Audience: Technical support staff, service technicians, and individuals

involved in the maintenance and repair of the product or equipment.

 Content: Manufacturer's manuals include detailed technical specifications,

schematics, parts lists, assembly instructions, and diagnostic procedures.
They may also contain information about warranty, calibration, and safety
standards.

 Language: The language used in manufacturer's manuals is technical and

specific to the product, assuming a certain level of expertise on the part of
the reader.
 3. Engineering Publications:

 Purpose: Engineering publications encompass a wide range of texts,

including research papers, technical reports, and documentation related to
engineering projects. These texts communicate findings, developments, and
methodologies within the engineering field.

 Audience: Engineers, researchers, and professionals within the specific

engineering discipline covered by the publication.

 Content: Engineering publications vary widely in content and may include

research methodologies, experimental data, mathematical models, case
studies, and analyses. They are often peer-reviewed and contribute to the
advancement of knowledge in the engineering field.

 Language: The language used in engineering publications is highly technical

and may include specialized terminology relevant to the specific field of
engineering. Clarity and precision are crucial in conveying complex
engineering concepts.

Each type of text serves a unique purpose, tailoring its content and language to the
needs and expertise of its intended audience.

1.1.4-Explain the importance of reading speed

Reading speed is a crucial aspect of effective reading, and its importance can be
understood from various perspectives:
1. Time Efficiency:
 Faster reading allows individuals to cover more material in a shorter amount
of time. In academic or professional settings, where there is often a large
volume of information to process, being able to read quickly is a valuable
skill.

2. Academic Performance:
 In academic environments, students are often required to read and
comprehend extensive amounts of information. A faster reading speed can
contribute to better academic performance by enabling students to
efficiently go through textbooks, research papers, and other study
materials.

3. Professional Advancement:
 In many professions, staying updated on the latest information and research
is essential. Professionals who can read quickly can keep pace with industry
developments, advancements, and emerging trends, giving them a
competitive edge.

4. Information Retention:
 While speed is important, it's crucial to balance it with comprehension.
Effective speed reading techniques emphasize not only reading quickly but
also retaining and understanding the material. The ability to comprehend
information at a fast pace is a valuable skill.

5. Multitasking:
 In today's fast-paced world, individuals often need to multitask and manage
multiple responsibilities. Reading quickly allows individuals to absorb
information efficiently, leaving time for other tasks and responsibilities.
 6. Test-taking Skills:
 Standardized tests often have time constraints, and the ability to read quickly
can be advantageous. Efficient readers are better equipped to answer
questions and complete tasks within the allocated time, which is particularly
important in exams.

7. Research and Critical Thinking:

 Researchers and professionals engaged in critical analysis benefit from the
ability to read quickly. It facilitates the review of a broad range of literature,
aiding in the synthesis of information and the development of well-informed
perspectives.

8. Language Development:
 Reading at a good speed can enhance vocabulary and language skills.
Exposure to a variety of words and sentence structures helps individuals
develop a more nuanced understanding of language.

9. Personal Growth:
 Reading is a lifelong activity associated with personal growth and
development. Being able to read quickly opens the door to a vast world of
knowledge, ideas, and perspectives, contributing to intellectual and personal
enrichment.

10. Technology and Digital Communication:

 In the digital age, people often consume information through various digital
platforms. The ability to read quickly is especially useful when navigating
through online articles, emails, and other digital content.
It's important to note that while speed is beneficial, it should not compromise
comprehension. Effective speed reading techniques emphasize a balance between
speed and understanding, ensuring that individuals can process information
efficiently without sacrificing depth of comprehension.

1.2-Reading types (clarify with activities): Prediction, Scanning, Skimming,

and Intensive reading

1.2.1-Describe different types of reading

Below discussed are different types of reading:

 Prediction

Prediction is a reading comprehension strategy that involves using clues from the
text, along with your own knowledge and experiences, to anticipate what will happen
next. As you read, you can use new information to revise your predictions.

 Skimming

Skimming, sometimes referred to as gist reading, means going through the text to
grasp the main idea. Here, the reader doesn’t pronounce each and every word of the
text but focuses their attention on the main theme or the core of the text. Examples
of skimming are reading magazines or newspapers and searching for a name in a
telephone directory.

 Scanning

Here, the reader quickly scuttles across sentences to get to a particular piece of
information. Scanning involves the technique of rejecting or ignoring irrelevant
information from the text to locate a specific piece of information.

 Intensive Reading

Intensive reading is far more time-consuming than skimming and scanning as it

needs the reader’s attention to detail. It involves close reading that aims at the
accuracy of comprehension. Here, the reader has to understand the meaning of each
and every word.

 Extensive reading

Extensive reading lays more emphasis on fluency and less on accuracy. It usually
involves reading for pleasure and is more of an out-of-classroom activity. It is highly
unlikely for readers to take up the extensive reading of text they do not like.

Let's clarify each reading type with associated activities:

1. Prediction:
 Activity: Before reading the entire text, make predictions about its content
based on titles, headings, subheadings, and any introductory or concluding
statements.
 Purpose: Helps activate prior knowledge and set expectations for the
material.

2. Scanning:
 Activity: Quickly glance over the text to locate specific information,
keywords, or details without reading every word.
 Purpose: Used to find particular information or confirm the presence of
 specific details within a text.

3. Skimming:
 Activity: Read rapidly to get a general overview of the text, focusing on
headings, subheadings, and the first and last sentences of paragraphs.
 Purpose: Helps grasp the main ideas, identify the structure of the text, and
decide whether the material is worth a more in-depth read.

4. Intensive Reading:
 Activity: Read carefully and thoroughly, paying close attention to details,
language, and nuances.
 Purpose: A deep understanding of the content, often used when studying
complex or important material, such as academic articles or challenging
literature.

Each type of reading serves a specific purpose and is applicable in different situations
depending on your goals and the nature of the material you are engaging with.

1.2.2-Match the types of reading with the situations

Different types of reading are suited to different situations. Here's a match between
types of reading and corresponding situations:

1. Skimming:
 Situation: When you want to quickly get an overview of a text or find specific
information without reading every detail.

2. Scanning:
  Situation: Looking for a particular piece of information in a document, such
as a name, date, or statistic.

3. Intensive Reading:
 Situation: Studying for an exam or closely analyzing a complex text where
comprehension and retention of details are crucial.

4. Extensive Reading:
 Situation: Enjoying a novel for leisure or reading a magazine to stay
updated on various topics.

5. Critical Reading:
 Situation: Analyzing and evaluating a text, questioning the author's
arguments, and forming your own opinions.

6. Skim-Reading:
 Situation: Reviewing a long article or report to grasp the main ideas and
structure before deciding whether to read it more thoroughly.

7. In-depth Reading:
 Situation: Engaging with a scholarly article or a research paper to fully
understand and evaluate the arguments and evidence presented.

8. Analytical Reading:
 Situation: Reading a complex document to break down and comprehend the
underlying meanings and relationships between ideas.

9. Light Reading:
  Situation: Reading a magazine, light fiction, or other easy-to-digest material
for entertainment without a need for deep analysis.

10. Textbook Reading:

 Situation: Studying a textbook to gain a comprehensive understanding of a
subject, often involving note-taking and active learning.

Remember, the effectiveness of a reading strategy depends on the specific goals and
context of the reading task.

1.2.4-Reading different kinds of texts (User Manuals, Manufacturer's

Manuals, Engineering Publications)

Reading various types of texts, such as user manuals, manufacturer's manuals, and
engineering publications, requires specific strategies to extract the information
effectively. Here are some tips for each type of text:

User Manuals:
1. Skim First: Start by quickly skimming through the entire manual. Look at
headings, subheadings, and any bullet points or highlighted text.Get a sense of the
organization and layout of the manual.
2. Focus on Sections of Interest: Identify the sections that are most relevant to
your needs. Focus on those sections to gather the specific information you're
looking for.
3. Use the Table of Contents: If available, refer to the table of contents to locate
information quickly. Manuals often follow a logical order, so the table of contents
can guide you to the right section.
4. Pay Attention to Warnings and Notes: Highlight or take note of any
warnings, important notes, or precautions. These can be crucial for safety or proper
usage.
5. Follow Step-by-Step Instructions:If the manual includes step-by-step
instructions, follow them carefully. Manuals are usually designed to guide users
through processes in a specific order.
Manufacturer's Manuals:
Understand Technical Jargon:Familiarize yourself with the technical terms and
jargon used in the manual. This can improve your comprehension of the content.
Refer to Diagrams and Schematics:Manufacturer's manuals often include
diagrams and schematics. Pay close attention to these visuals, as they can provide
additional clarity to the textual information.
Look for Troubleshooting Tips:Manufacturers often include troubleshooting
sections. Take note of common issues and their solutions.
Check for Software or Firmware Updates: In technology-related manuals,
check for information on software or firmware updates. Keeping systems updated is
often crucial for optimal performance.
Engineering Publications:
Read Methodically: Engineering publications can be dense. Read methodically,
focusing on one section at a time to ensure a comprehensive understanding.
Understand Equations and Formulas: If the publication includes equations or
formulas, take the time to understand them. They are likely to be crucial to the
content.
Analyze Data and Results: If the publication presents experimental data or
results, analyze them critically. Look for patterns or trends that are relevant to the
publication's objectives.
Pay Attention to Citations: Check the references and citations. This can lead you
to additional resources for further exploration.
 1. Take Notes and Summarize:
 Given the technical nature of engineering publications, take detailed notes
as you read. Summarize key points to reinforce your understanding.
Remember, effective reading involves not just understanding the content but also
being able to apply the information as needed. If you encounter difficulties, don't
hesitate to seek clarification or additional resources.