Reading in the sciences

Reading In The Sciences
What is different about reading in the sciences?
Readings contain a large number of facts and details (specifics). This kind of reading requires an overall understanding ofthe information presented in order to process details.
Placement of main ideas and details is usually straight forward (headings and subheadings), but grasping all of the details can be awesome.Information may be dense.
Organizational pattern is usually "relationships", i.e., ideas and details building upon previous information. A solid background of the basics in the discipline is necessary tounderstand and comprehend the information.
Terminology is subject specific and must be understood to comprehend information presented. Often important terms are boldfaced or italicized. A review ofterminology before reading increases understanding and comprehension.
Diagrams, figures, charts, and graphs are numerous. Time is needed to study these both before reading and as one reads as thesevisual aids help integrate information. Visualizations aid in the understanding and retention of information.
Knowledge and comprehension of the readings and lectures must be taken to an "application" level, i.e., the ideas learned should be applied to new or different situations other than those presented in the texts or lectures.
Research is an extension of information. In order to readresearch and understand it, the basics of the discipline must be understood. Think of research as taking an idea, analyzing, synthesizing and extending it.
Difficulty of material often necessitates morethan one reading for thorough understanding of information.
How does one read the sciences?
BEFORE THE LECTURE
1. Preview the chapter. — Briefly look over titles, introductions, subheadings, firstfew sentences beneath subheadings, figures, diagrams, italicized or boldfaced words and terms, and summaries. As you preview, ask yourself:
• What is this about?
• What do I know about this...