Reading: Skimming & Scanning (Efficiently): B2 Lesson 1: Quickly Grasping Main Arguments of Complex Texts

CEFR Level: B2 (Upper Intermediate)

Target Reading Sub-skill: Skimming & Scanning (Efficiently)

Specific Focus: Quickly Grasping Main Arguments of Complex Texts

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What You Will Learn

By the end of this lesson, you will be able to:

• Understand what a "main argument" is in a more complex text (like an opinion article or essay).
• Use skimming techniques to quickly identify the author's main argument.
• Recognize thesis statements or main claim sentences.
• Identify how headings and paragraph topic sentences contribute to the overall argument.

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Hello Cambodian Learners!

At the B2 level, you'll read more complex texts, such as articles that present a particular viewpoint or argument – for example, an article arguing for better public transportation in Phnom Penh, or the importance of preserving Cambodian traditions. Being able to quickly understand the writer's main argument is a crucial skill. This helps you to read critically and understand the core message efficiently.

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Grasping Main Arguments

The main argument (also called the main claim or thesis) is the central point the author is trying to convince you of in a persuasive or argumentative text.

Strategies to quickly find the main argument:

• Skim the Introduction: The main argument is often stated clearly in the introductory paragraph, sometimes as a "thesis statement" towards the end of the introduction.
• Check the Conclusion: Authors often restate their main argument in the concluding paragraph.
• Look at Headings and Subheadings: These can give clues to the overall argument and how it's structured.
• Identify Topic Sentences: The topic sentence of each body paragraph usually supports or develops a part of the main argument.
• Look for signal phrases: Words like "I believe...", "This essay will argue...", "The main point is...", "It is clear that..."

Example: Click the paragraphs to hear them.

The Value of Community Service

(P1) Many young people today are looking for ways to make a positive impact on their communities. One of the most effective ways to achieve this is through participating in community service. Engaging in volunteer work not only benefits society but also provides significant personal development for the individual.

(P2) Firstly, community service helps to address local needs. Volunteers can support schools, help care for the environment, or assist elderly people in their neighborhoods. For example, students in Battambang might organize a clean-up day along the Sangkae River. This direct action creates tangible improvements in the community.

(P3) Secondly, volunteering offers valuable learning experiences. Young people can develop new skills, such as teamwork, communication, and problem-solving. These skills are highly beneficial for future careers and personal growth. Moreover, it can increase their understanding of social issues and foster a sense of empathy.

(P4) In conclusion, community service is a powerful tool for both societal improvement and individual enrichment. It is an activity that should be encouraged among young people everywhere.

Main Argument of this text:

Engaging in volunteer work not only benefits society but also provides significant personal development for the individual. (Found in P1)

The other paragraphs (P2 and P3) provide reasons and examples to support this main argument. The conclusion (P4) restates this idea.

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Practice Time!

Activity 1: Identify the Main Argument

Read each short article excerpt below. Then choose the option that best states the author's main argument.

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Quick Quiz!

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Great Job!

You're learning to quickly grasp the main arguments in more complex texts! This will help you read critically and understand different viewpoints more effectively.

How do you feel about this lesson?

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