Read Critically and Thoughtfully

Critical Reading and Writing

The handouts and worksheets listed and linked to here are intended to help students learn to read critically and thoughtfully.

For General Reading:

• What is Critical Reading?
• Two Modes of Reading
• Worksheet: Exercise for While You Read
• Effective Reading: Taking Notes
• While You Read: Strategies for Close Reading
• Interpreting Texts Critically: Asking Questions
• Worksheet: Authority of the Writer
• Worksheet: Logic of the Writer's Argument
• Worksheet: Ways in Which the Writer Gets Your Interest
• Worksheet: Writer's Use of Language and Style
• Worksheet: Ideology That Informs the Text
• After Reading: Evaluating What You Have Read
• Examining Your Reactions After Reading: A Three-Part Exercise
• Worksheet: Examining Your Reactions
• Stages Involved in Summary Writing

For Reading Literature:

• Ideas for Writing and Thinking About a Text

Writer's Complex Copyright

The content in Writing Resources originally was created for the Writer's Complex website by Cathy Copley, Larry Greenberg, Elaine Handley, Susan Oaks and contributors. Copyright 1995-96, SUNY Empire State College.

Content currently available at:

ESC Online Writing Center. “Critical Reading and Writing.” Essay, SUNY Empire State College, Web 

< http://www.esc.edu/online-writing-center/resources/critical-reading-writing/>.