How to Read Critically

  How to Read Critically

 

Ideas and Viewpoints:

Each person has his or her own opinions. That's not a bad thing! Ideas about important subjects lead us to find better ways of living. Every article, editorial, news story, letter, or information on a website has a particular message and the point of view of its author.

However, to analyze what we read, determining if the author is using sound reasoning and solid evidence to convince us of a position is important. Analyzing that position can bring us further knowledge and provide us with the ability to form our own opinions and/or support positions we already have.

What does reading critically mean? It does not mean looking for what is wrong with a text! It means suspending one's judgment on a text until one has

• understood the message
• evaluated the evidence to support the message
• analyzed the writer's perspective
• analyzed any techniques of persuasion used to convey the message

Reading critically enables us to reach deeper understandings without accepting information that is incorrect or judgments based on unsound reasoning and evidence.

But how do we read critically? How can we tell if writers are telling the objective truth or trying to persuade us without appropriate supporting reasons? Some readings are long and complex.

How can we analyze a reading?

• Start small.
• Use a checklist.
• Ask some simple questions.

Sometimes some self-talk or discussion with a classmate or teacher helps with understanding.

Before you begin

1. Consider your purpose for reading the article. What are you hoping to learn?
2. Think about what you already know about the topic. If the reading contradicts what you know, the warning bells should start to sound.
3. Think about your own biases and perspective. Your opinions about the subject can interfere with your understanding of the message. Your opinions may be valid and supported-you are not necessarily wrong because someone disagrees with you!

Skim the article

1. First, look at the title. If the article is a chapter or section of a longer work, look at that title as well. Does it present a simple message or indicate a particular point of view?
2. Are any images, diagrams, or charts used to illustrate the main idea effectively, or are they used to sway your opinion?

As you read

1. What is author's message? Can you tell what it is right away?
2. Are language or persuasive tactics such as prejudice or fear used to appeal to the emotions?
3. What is the writer's tone and how does the tone (the author's attitude) affect your response to the text?
4. Are evidence or statistics used to support the author's ideas? If so, is the evidence based on scientific study and research, or is it anecdotal? Is the source identified? Is it a credible source? Is it current ?
5. Does the writer use generalizations, inferences, or assumptions (statements without support or reason) to support his or her position?
6. Does the article represent a particular perspective or worldview ? If so, whose perspective is left out?
7. Can you find out more about the author and his or her credentials? Jot some questions you could ask.