Scanning and skimming are two different types of reading techniques used to assimilate information from sources quickly. Scanning allows a person to look up specific information from a large text or some other kind of information source while skimming allows the person to quickly read through something to get the basic idea. There are numerous examples available to better understand how scanning and skimming can be used in real settings.
Someone commonly uses the scanning technique through the use of a search bar. After typing in a set of keywords, a person will be given a list of available links based upon the terms that were entered into the search bar. Instead of reading through every single source, the person will usually skim the descriptions of the links, and then select the source they want to read through more thoroughly. In this way, the person scans the material given to them by the search page and finds the information that is most significant to him or her.
An example of skimming is when someone opens up a selected source and proceeds to read through the material available. Instead of carefully reading every bit of information, that person may quickly read through the first couple of paragraphs or the subheadings to get a basic understanding of the material.
If the person wanted to scan that material, he or she might use the "find" function on the computer to search for specific terms and try to find certain relevant sections of the material. This is very common too when someone uses the index in a book, reading specific sections of a book based on the relevant terms and concepts the person is interested in.
Look for at least 3 short paragraphs and highlight the main idea of each paragraph.
- The Star
- by H.G. Wells
This is a suspenseful, gripping and well written story, where the author smartly plays "what if" with a potential ending of the world, and turns a beautiful phrase or two while doing it, "So, too, barbarism and savagery, already tired of the novelty, went about their nightly business, and save for a howling dog here and there, the beast world left the star unheeded." - The Open Window
- by H.H. Munro
A mischievous young woman with a very big imagination and a gift for drama "entertains" a house caller waiting on her aunt by spinning a theatrical tale. One can safely assume that Mr. Framton Nuttle will never be the same again. The point here is simple: short stories are fun! - To Build a Fire
- by Jack London
"The dog did not know anything about thermometers" but it had the sense to know "that it was no time for travelling." The man's judgement was not as good as the dog's, and that sets the stage for a classic man vs. nature story.
Give examples of the different types of reading. Developmental reading – is a systematic instruction which aims to develop the reading skills. Ex. Bea reads a novel every day to develop his reading skills. Pleasure reading – a more passive type of reading that primarily aims to provide enjoyment and entertainment.
Ex. Bea read again his favorite book, 50 shades of Gray to relax himself for a long day of work.
Functional reading - designed to help and learn basic functional reading
Ex. Potter reads about bio-data of others to learn how to fill out his own bio-data.
Remedial reading – aims to correct the effect of poor teaching and poor learning.
Ex. Emma reads an article together with his English teacher to correct his pronunciation and diction.