MAKING OF A CRITICAL READER

ILUMINADA C. LIZADA

This variety of reading experiences may readily be extended in the average classroom by including other activities. Comparing several newspaper accounts of the same event for accuracy, omissions, etc.

Comparing newspaper versions with those offered by radio and television news commentators. Exploring several of the writings of an author (for example, Laura Ingalls Wilder) to discuss his interest, viewpoints and feelings.

Comparing several types of presentation on the same topic as a newspaper or magazines article, editorial, television documentary, for style, accuracy, and viewpoint. Exploring the future outcomes if the reader were to follow the author’s thinking to the ultimate outcomes.

Doing exercises in listing the facts and opinions offered in a selection, and discussing ways in which also must, these may be distinguished

Comparing the claims in advertisements for competing products, in terms of choice of words, fact vs. opinion, appeals to the reader.

Comparing pupils interpretations of the author’s facts in provocative or emotional materials.

Any reading materials including textbooks may be approached in this fashion, if the teacher’s questions motivate a critical, evaluative reaction. This implies that to evaluate the pupil’s comprehension, the teacher must ask questions that require answers that are more than a mere recital of facts. The following questions in comprehension evaluation:” Who wrote this? Why did he write it? What does he wish you to believe? Do you agree? Why not? How did he try to convince you? Have you compared this material with other sources? How did they disagree? “Why?”

Certainly it is to be hoped that this vein of questioning will lead pupils to realize as teachers also must, that every writer has a viewpoint which he wishes the reader to accept, regardless of the nature of his material. As a result, every reader must be alert to recognize this intention and react to it thoughtfully and critically if he is is to control his own life and thinking.

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II at Gutad National High School, The author is SST Floridablanca