Chapter 4 summary

Calvin Gurtler
4/9/14
English 102


            Chapter 4 discusses reading critically and how it can help you work with your sources. Reading critically differs from evaluating because when you read critically you question what your source is saying and thinking about what it means, focusing on making sense of the source. You don't take anything for face value. While evaluation focuses more on determining how reliable the source is at presenting its information and whether or not it meets your needs for a research writer of your topic. You can use your research question to think critically by forming position on your issue to answer you research question. Reading critically s reading with attitude, regardless of where you are in you research writing process you should always adopt a critical attitude. Ask questions, look for similarities and differences among sources, and examine the implications of what your are reading as it relates to your research topic. The most important part of reading critically is being open to ideas and arguments.

           When critically reading sources you should keep in mind your reader's needs, interests, values, and beliefs. You should also keep in mind the design of your document and the context in which it will be read as you critically read your sources. If your document is going to be read on a cramped smartphone you should find information that is easy to read and fits that context.