Answer:
a. Reading may be the most demanding work at university or college because it requires concentration, comprehension, and critical thinking. Students are often required to read large volumes of complex texts, analyze information, and synthesize ideas from multiple sources. This can be mentally taxing and time-consuming.
b. The written word is common to every field of study because it is the primary medium through which knowledge and information are communicated. Whether it is textbooks, research papers, articles, or online resources, written texts are used to convey ideas, theories, evidence, and arguments in all academic disciplines.
c. Some of the ways in which we read include skimming, scanning, close reading, and analytical reading. Skimming involves quickly going through a text to get a general idea of its content. Scanning is searching for specific information or keywords. Close reading involves carefully analyzing and interpreting a text, paying attention to details and nuances. Analytical reading involves critically evaluating the text, questioning assumptions, and making connections to other sources or ideas.
d. Our ways of reading can vary depending on the purpose, context, and type of text. For example, reading a novel for leisure is different from reading a scientific research paper. The level of engagement, depth of analysis, and reading strategies employed may vary based on the specific requirements and goals of the reading task.
e. Students who say "Oh no..." regarding their perceptions of reading may view it as a burdensome or tedious task. They may feel overwhelmed by the volume of reading assignments or struggle with comprehension. On the other hand, students who say "Oh wow..." may have a positive attitude towards reading, finding it enjoyable, enlightening, and intellectually stimulating. They may appreciate the opportunity to learn and engage with new ideas through reading.
f. When the writers say "Reading is a skill which is often taken for granted," they mean that reading is often overlooked or undervalued as a fundamental skill. Many people assume that because they can read, they possess sufficient reading skills. However, effective reading requires more than just decoding words. It involves comprehension, critical thinking, and the ability to extract meaning from texts. The statement highlights the importance of recognizing and developing reading skills for academic success and lifelong learning.
