Exams and Revision

Using the principles we described in the first section of this chapter (see p. 64 for an example of this style of planning). Then assess it in the same way, and compare the advantages and disadvantages of each approach.

2 In section 4 of this chapter we described a method of skimming in ­order to obtain a quick outline of the argument in a piece of writing. Try this technique for yourself.

Start with an extract from a school or university textbook, written in English, about a subject you are studying. Skim it in the way we suggested:

Were you able to follow the structure of the writer's argument? Would it help if you also read the final sentence of each paragraph?

If possible work with a partner who is also skimming the same extract. On the basis of your skimming, try to give him or her a quick summary of the passage. Then discuss those clues from the passage which you used to make up your summary and the points at which your summaries are different. (Try Practicing this skimming method at least once a week.)

3 In the previous chapter we presented a long extract by the anthropologists Drucker and Heizer , and in Appendix 5 another extract by the biologist Partridge. Work together whit a fellow student, each on a different extract. Make notes on the extracts in order to explain the writer's argument in a five minute oral presentation. (Try as far as possible to use your own wording.)

Make your presentation to your partner and ask him or her to comment on how clear your talk was.

Then discuss in the larger group any difficulties that arose in carrying out this task.