7.2.2
Scanning

This is usually mentioned in the same breath as skimming and denotes the rapid processing of text for the purpose of locating specific information. Training should ideally begin in the early stages of language learning, with such exercises as finding as quickly as possible how many times a particular word appears on a page. The practice should continue through more advanced levels of linguistic proficiency, when a quite valid way to approach a new text would be first of all to get students to try to identify which section refers to a specific historical event or a particular economic problem. For example, to use the film reviews again:

Read quickly through the film reviews and find which film(s):

  • are accompanied by hard rock music;
  • contain scenes of violence;
  • are set in the United States.

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