• Unit 2: What is Reading Actively?

    Unit 2 introduces reading actively. You will learn how to use context clues to understand a reading and predict what will come next. Finally, you will use these reading skills to demonstrate your understanding of a short reading.

    One way to build your English skills is to read more. When we read to learn something new we read actively. This means that we think about what we already know, what we still need to know, and what questions we hope the reading will answer. In this unit, you will learn about two different active reading strategies: using context clues and making predictions.

    Completing this unit should take you approximately 2.5 hours.

    • Upon successful completion of this unit, you will be able to:

      • apply active reading skills using context clues, pre-reading, and prediction.

    • 2.1: Context Clues

      Do you know what to do when you come across a word you don't know? Sometimes, you'll find the meaning of a word hidden in the sentence you're reading. Words and phrases that you already understand can act like clues in a puzzle. Using the clues given to you in a sentence to figure out the meaning of a word or phrase is called using context clues.

      • Context Clues Page

        Watch this video about context clues. When you’re finished, complete the exercises.

    • 2.2: Pre-reading and Predicting

      When we sit down to read something new, there are a few things we can do to make understanding easier. By pre-reading, or previewing before we read, we can better follow the author's meaning and grasp conclusions. 

      One way to learn from a reading is to make predictions. This means making a guess as to what will happen in the reading. Using the title, subtitles, and pictures, you can guess what the author may be saying before you start reading. Then as you read, see if you're right.

      • Previewing Text Page

        In this section, you will watch a video and read information on how to preview a text in order to familiarize yourself with its contents before you read. This will help you understand the material better and use your time more efficiently.

      • Let's Play a Predicting Game! Page

        In this activity, you will make predictions about a reading.

    • Unit 2 Assessment

      • Reading Comprehension Page

        In this activity, you will answer questions about a story by reading and identifying important details.