A TEXT DIALOGUE

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Many readers don't realize that if they communicated with their textbooks as if the authors were standing in front of them, they would have much better comprehension when reading.   Look at the following comparison between a person speaking to someone and a student reading a textbook.

Person Speaking with Someone

Student Reading a Textbook
1.   Looks at the person to determine age, height, weight, color of hair, color of eyes, etc.  1.   Scans through the book to determine publication date, number of pages, number of pictures, use of color, size of print, etc.
2.  Asks the person about background information to find out more about him or her. 2.   Reads biographical information about the author usually located in the front of the text.
3.   Asks the person about important interests in his or her life. 3.   Looks for important text elements such as Title Page, Table of Contents,  Glossary, Answer Key, Appendix and Index.
4.   Identifies the person's priorities and uses them to develop the communication.  4.   Reads the "For the Student" section explaining how a student should use text.
5.   Focuses on eye contact, voice intonation, and body language. 5.   Reads chapter introductions, main headings,  and chapter summaries.
6.   Asks questions when confused or needs more information. 6.   Writes questions in the margins when confused or unclear about a concept.
7.   Asks the person to repeat him/herself when information is unclear. 7.   Highlights key words and ideas that need to be looked at again for clearer understanding.
8.   Writes down important information that needs to be remembered. 8.   Takes notes on important information that will be on a test.
9.   Says "goodbye" to the person when finished communicating. 9.   Answers summary questions after reading  the text chapter.
10  Introduces person to other friends. 10. Forms study groups to review information.
11. Calls the person to stay in touch. 11. Reviews the chapter within 24 hours to overlearn the information.
12. Values the friendship and keeps in contact. 12. Values the text and builds on the content of each chapter.