Here's how to read for success in OET Reading part C
In OET Reading Part C, you'll answer questions about two texts of general healthcare interest, aimed at intelligent professionals like yourself. These texts are not just about facts; they’re about understanding opinions and the nuances of arguments. Here’s how you can tackle these texts effectively to maximise your success in Reading Part C.
Understanding the nature of the texts
The texts in Reading Part C are designed to mirror the kind of reading you might do in your professional life to stay updated on medical practices and innovations. Imagine these texts as articles you might read in your free time to stay informed, or perhaps they are recommended by your manager for your professional development. They are rich with opinions and analyses that are meant to provoke thought and provide deeper insights into the evolving world of healthcare.
Reading strategies: what works best?
When approaching these texts, you might instinctively consider different reading strategies:
- Scanning for specific facts and dates (option A)
- Reading quickly to grasp the overall message (option B)
- Reading slowly and carefully to understand every word (option C)
For the OET Test Reading Part C, option B – reading quickly to understand the message the writer is trying to communicate – is the most effective strategy. Here’s why:
Focus on the writer’s opinion
The key to excelling in Reading Part C lies in comprehending opinions and the overall argument of the text. Unlike scanning for facts or getting sidetracked with every single word, focusing on the general message helps you grasp the essence of what the writer is communicating. The texts are often opinionated, featuring not just the writer’s viewpoints but also those of other experts who may agree or disagree with the writer.
For example, you might come across a statement like, “Crowther disagrees,” which is explicit. However, opinions can also be subtle, such as, “the beauty of the idea, in my opinion, is its simplicity.” Understanding these subtleties is crucial as several questions will test your comprehension of these opinions and the line of argument presented.
Avoid the keyword trap
A common pitfall for many candidates is the tendency to read the text with the aim of matching keywords from the questions or answer options. This approach can lead to misunderstanding the text's overall meaning. Instead, read the text as you would in your first language: focus on understanding the underlying message rather than hunting for specific words or phrases.
Practical tips for effective reading
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Preview the text: start by quickly scanning the text to get a sense of the topic and structure. This will help you anticipate the type of content and arguments you’ll encounter.
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Identify main ideas: as you read, focus on identifying the main ideas and arguments. What is the writer trying to convey? What are the key points supporting their opinion?
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Look for opinion indicators: pay attention to phrases that signal an opinion, such as “in my opinion,” “it seems that,” or “the evidence suggests.” These indicators help you locate the writer’s viewpoints and how they support or oppose other opinions.
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Understand the context: consider the context in which information is presented. How does each piece of evidence support the writer’s overall argument? Understanding the relationship between different parts of the text will enhance your comprehension.
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Practice active reading: engage with the text by asking yourself questions as you read. What is the writer’s purpose? How do they structure their argument? This active engagement helps reinforce your understanding and retention of the material.
Applying these strategies
To put these strategies into practice, incorporate reading materials that resemble the texts in Reading Part C into your study routine. Look for articles, journals, and opinion pieces related to healthcare. Practice summarising the main ideas and opinions and discuss them with peers or mentors to deepen your understanding.
By adopting these reading strategies, you’ll be better equipped to navigate the complexities of Reading Part C. Remember, the goal is to understand the writer’s message and opinions, not just to gather facts. With consistent practice and a focus on comprehension, you’ll enhance your ability to read for success in the OET Test.