PART THREE: ACADEMIC WRITING
PART THREE: Academic Writing
Chapter 17: Writing a Summary
Activity 1 on How to Summarize an Article (page 363)
Here is a sample summary of the article “Power Learning”:
“Power Learning” describes three proven techniques for improving study skills: time control,
classroom note-taking, and textbook study.
Time control is a matter of carefully scheduling your activities. The first step is to circle
important dates on a large calendar. Record your study plan for one week or one day on the same
calendar. This study plan should include set times for eating, going to classes, working,
commuting, studying, and relaxing. Perhaps the best way to control your time is to make a list of
the things you have to do. Mark the most important items on the list so that you will remember to
do them first. Cross jobs off your list as you do them, and reschedule any uncompleted tasks.
Class notes can also be improved if you follow a regular procedure. Attending classes regularly
helps, as does developing a system of abbreviations to use in your notes. You should also record
any information your instructor writes on the board or enumerates (presents in a numbered list).
“Emphasis words” such as “important” or “chief” can also help you decide what to take notes on,
since they indicate the main ideas. Examples and information on how ideas are related to each
other should also be included. Filling in incomplete notes and reviewing them soon after class
help ensure that you have the complete record you need to understand and remember what was
said.
Finally, following an organized sequence of steps will help you master difficult textbooks. After
making sure you understand the title of a textbook chapter, try skimming the first and last
paragraphs to see if they introduce or summarize main ideas. Headings, subheadings, words in
boldface or italic print, and pictures or diagrams provide further clues to key points. Once you
have previewed the chapter, you should read it carefully, marking definitions and examples,
enumerations, and emphasis words by highlighting, underlining, or adding symbols in the
margins. As you read the material a second time, take notes in simplified outline form. Study
these notes one section at a time by asking yourself questions and answering them without
looking back at your notes.
Therefore, improved study skills are the result of taking control of your time, improving your in-
class note-taking, and studying textbooks in an organized way.
Chapter 19: Writing a Research Paper
Activity 2 on A Caution about Plagiarism (384-386)
Langan, College Writing Skills with Readings, 9e IM - 1
This is proprietary material solely for authorized instructor use. Not authorized for sale or distribution in any manner. This document may not be
copied, scanned, duplicated, forwarded, distributed, or posted on a website, in whole or part.
PART THREE: ACADEMIC WRITING
Set 1: U a. A b.
Set 2: A a. U b.
Set 3: U a. A b.
Activity 3 on Works Cited (390-391)
1. Carr, David. The Longest Trip Home. New York: HarperCollins, 2008.
2. Appleby, Julie. “Drug Costs for Seniors Growing.” USA Today 12 Nov. 2008.
1A. Print.
3. Passer, Michael W., and Ronald E. Smith. Psychology: The Science of Mind and
Behavior. 2nd ed. New York: McGraw-Hill, 2007. Print.
4. Miller, Mark. “Parting with a Pet.” Newsweek Online 8 Oct. 2007. Web. 16 May
2007.
5. “Depression in Teenagers.” Troubled Teens. Aspen Education Group. n.d. Web.
24 Apr. 2007.
Langan, College Writing Skills with Readings, 9e IM - 2
This is proprietary material solely for authorized instructor use. Not authorized for sale or distribution in any manner. This document may not be
copied, scanned, duplicated, forwarded, distributed, or posted on a website, in whole or part.
