Reading: Skimming for Gist
Lesson 1: Identifying the Topic with Pictures
Before You Read 🧠
Key Vocabulary
Understanding these words will help you in this lesson.
Skimming
Reading very quickly to find the main idea.
Topic / Gist
The main subject or idea of a text.
Keyword
An important word that gives a clue about the topic.
How to Skim for the Topic 🧐
- Look at the picture first. What do you see? It gives you a big clue!
- Read the text quickly. Don't stop for words you don't know.
- Look for keywords. These are important words that are repeated.
Practice Example 1
I go to the market in Kampot. My mother sells fruit. She has sweet mangoes, bananas, and durian. Many people come to buy food.
Question: What is the topic of this text?
- A. Animals
- B. The Market
- C. School
Practice Example 2
In Cambodia, many people ride motos to work. You can also take a tuk-tuk. Tourists often use a tuk-tuk because it is fun. My father drives a moto.
Question: What is the topic of this text?
- A. Transportation
- B. Weather
- C. Hobbies
Your Turn to Practice! 🎯
Practice Quiz 1
Skim the text and look at the picture. What is the topic?
My name is Vanna and I am a student. I go to my school in the morning. I learn English and Khmer. My teacher is very kind and my friends are in my class.
Question: What is the topic of this text?
- A. My Family
- B. Playing Sports
- C. My School
Key Vocabulary Reference
- Skimming The skill of reading very quickly to find the main idea.
- Gist / Topic The main subject or idea of a text.
- Keyword An important word that gives a clue about the topic.
Your Reading Mission ⭐
Find the Topic
Find a simple book, story, or advertisement in English.
- Step 1: Look only at the title and the pictures.
- Step 2: Guess the topic. What do you think it is about?
- Step 3: Skim the text quickly for keywords to see if you are correct.