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TEXT BOOK LEARNING AIDS
1. THE PREFACE
The preface is the author's introduction to the text. The preface presents basic
information about the text you should know before you begin reading.
. Why and for whom the author wrote the text
. How the text is organized
. Purpose of the text
. References and authorities consulted
. Major points of emphasis
. Learning aid included and how to use them
. Special features of the text
2. TABLE of CONTENTS
The table of contents is an outline of the text.
3. THE OPENING CHAPTER
The first chapter of a textbook is one of the most important. Here the author
sets the stage for what is to follow
4. TYPOGRAPHICAL AIDS
. Italic type (slanted print) is often used to call attention to a particular
word
or phrase.
. Enumeration refers to the numbering or lettering of facts and ideas within
a paragraph.
. Headings and subheadings divide the chapters into sections and label the
major topic of each section.
. Colored print is used in some texts to emphasize important ideas or defi-
nitions
5. CHAPTER QUESTIONS
Many textbooks include discussion and/or review questions at the end of each
chapter. Try to read these through when you preread the chapter. Then after you
have read the chapter, use the questions to review and test yourself.
6. VOCABULARY LIST
Textbooks often contain a list of new terms introduced in the book. The list may
appear at the beginning or end of individual chapters or at the back of the
book.
GLOSSARY
A glossary is a mini-dictionary that lists alphabetically the important
Vocabulary used in a book. A glossary is faster and more convenient to use
than a dictionary.
All of these aids will help you to feel more comfortable with a new textbook.
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