Introduction to Key Points in TOEFL iBT Reading
Welcome to today’s lesson. When it comes to the TOEFL iBT Reading section, one of the crucial skills to master is identifying key points. These are the main ideas or important details that form the backbone of a passage. Being able to spot them quickly not only helps in understanding the text better but also saves time during the exam. So, let’s dive into the top 10 strategies for learning this skill.
1. Skim the Passage First
Before delving into the details, it’s essential to get an overall idea of the passage. Skimming involves quickly glancing through the text, focusing on headings, subheadings, and the first and last sentences of each paragraph. This gives you a bird’s-eye view, making it easier to identify key points later.
2. Pay Attention to Topic Sentences
Topic sentences are like signposts. They provide a clear indication of what the paragraph is about. Often, the key point of a passage is found in the topic sentence. So, underline or highlight them as you read.
3. Notice Repetition and Synonyms
Authors often use repetition or synonyms to emphasize important ideas. If you come across a word or phrase that’s repeated or has a similar meaning to something mentioned earlier, chances are it’s a key point.
4. Look for Transition Words
Transition words like ‘however,’ ‘therefore,’ or ‘in contrast’ signal a shift in the author’s argument. These shifts often indicate a new key point. So, when you encounter such words, be prepared to identify the main idea that follows.
5. Identify Examples and Evidence
Examples and evidence are usually used to support or illustrate a main idea. They provide concrete details. So, when you spot them, you’re likely in the vicinity of a key point.
6. Analyze the Structure
The way a passage is structured can offer valuable clues. For instance, if there’s a list or a series of steps, that’s often a key point. Similarly, if the author presents a problem and then offers a solution, the solution is likely to be a key point.
7. Take Note of Bold or Italicized Text
Authors often use formatting techniques to draw attention to important information. If a word or phrase is in bold or italics, it’s likely to be a key point. So, make sure to mark them.
8. Use Context Clues
Sometimes, even if a word or phrase isn’t explicitly mentioned as a key point, you can infer its importance from the context. Look for words like ‘significant,’ ‘important,’ or ‘crucial’ that indicate the author’s emphasis.
9. Summarize Each Paragraph
After reading a paragraph, take a moment to summarize its main idea in your own words. This not only helps in understanding but also reinforces the key points in your mind.
10. Practice, Practice, Practice
Like any skill, mastering the art of identifying key points requires practice. The more passages you read, the better you’ll become at spotting the main ideas quickly. So, make it a habit to regularly practice TOEFL iBT Reading passages.