Reading: Skimming & Scanning
B1 Lesson 2: Locating Multiple Pieces of Information
Before You Read 🧠
Key Vocabulary (Click 🔊)
Let's understand these two key skills.
The Scanning Process: A 4-Step Mission
Imagine you have a mission to find 4 pieces of information. You don't have time to read the whole text. Here is your plan:
- Step 1: Read the Questions First. Look at your questions and identify your keywords (e.g., "how much," "who," "when," "price," "$").
- Step 2: Skim for Location. Quickly glance at the text's headings and paragraphs to guess *where* the answer might be. (e.g., "The question is about price? I'll look for a '$' sign or a 'Cost' section.").
- Step 3: Scan for the Keyword. Move your eyes quickly (in a "Z" or "S" pattern) over that section. You are not reading. You are hunting for your keyword.
- Step 4: Read & Extract. When you find the keyword, stop and read the full sentence around it to get your answer. Repeat for the next question.
Practice Activity: Find the Information 🎯
Your mission is to find the answers to the 4 questions below. Do not read the text yet. First, read the questions and think about your keywords.
1. Where is the market located?
2. When did the market first become popular?
3. What is the approximate price for a kilo of blue crab?
4. How much is the fee to have a restaurant cook your crab?
Now, scan the text below to find the answers. Then, click "Check Answers".
A Guide to Kep's Famous Crab Market
Introduction: The Gem of the Coast
The Kep Crab Market, located in the coastal town of Kep, is one of Cambodia's most renowned culinary destinations. It is world-famous for its fresh blue crab, which is often cooked with Kampot's green pepper. Every day, visitors flock to the waterfront to buy seafood directly from fishermen as they pull their traps from the ocean.
A Brief History
Kep has long been a favorite seaside retreat. The town's popularity began during the French colonial era and peaked in the "Golden Age" of the 1960s, when it was a glamorous destination for Cambodia's elite. The Crab Market has always been the heart of the town, providing fresh food for locals and visitors alike. After decades of decline, it has seen a major revival in the last 20 years.
What to Buy: More Than Just Crabs
The main attraction is, of course, the blue crab. Prices can change based on the season and the size of the crabs, but visitors can typically expect to pay approximately $10 to $15 per kilo. However, the market is not just about crabs. You can also find baskets of fresh shrimp, whole grilled squid, fish, and local fruits. Many stalls also sell souvenirs, but the main reason to visit is the food.
The Experience: How It Works
The experience is unique. First, you buy your live crabs directly from a vendor. Then, you take your purchase to one of the many adjacent restaurants or seaside stalls. For a small cooking fee, usually between $1 and $2, they will prepare and cook your seafood for you immediately. The best time to visit is in the morning when the catch is freshest, but the market is busy all day.
Key Vocabulary Reference (Click 🔊)
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Renowned
Known or talked about by many people; famous.
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Culinary
Related to cooking or kitchens.
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Colonial Era
The period of time when a country is ruled by another country.
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Revival
A period when something becomes popular or strong again.
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Approximately
Close to a particular number or time, but not exactly.
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Adjacent
Next to or adjoining something else.
Your Reading Mission ⭐
Scan a Real-World Text
Find a real menu from a local restaurant (or look one up online).
Your mission is to scan (do not read!) the menu to find the answers to these three questions as fast as you can:
- What is the price of "Lok Lak Beef"? (Keyword: "Lok Lak", "$", "price")
- Does the restaurant have "Fish Amok"? (Keyword: "Fish Amok", "Amok")
- What is the restaurant's phone number or address? (Keyword: "Phone", "Tel", "St.")
This is exactly how you use scanning in daily life!