When we break apart the skills involved in reading comprehension, we are constantly amazed at how many skills there really are. We use the same skills when we watch TV shows, listen to music, and view advertisements.
They are everywhere: in magazines, in newspapers, on the radio, at the movie theater, and on television. It is important that we protect ourselves from marketing "tricks", which are intended to "hook" the viewers/readers/
listeners. Perhaps the product is cheaply made. Maybe it isn't as it appears. Is it worth the price? Is it something you need? Let's dive right in to a commercial and hone our reading skills along the way.
The commercial below is for a product that's still around - Barbie.
They are everywhere: in magazines, in newspapers, on the radio, at the movie theater, and on television. It is important that we protect ourselves from marketing "tricks", which are intended to "hook" the viewers/readers/
listeners. Perhaps the product is cheaply made. Maybe it isn't as it appears. Is it worth the price? Is it something you need? Let's dive right in to a commercial and hone our reading skills along the way.
The commercial below is for a product that's still around - Barbie.
| QUESTION What was the "old Barbie" like? How did the company change her face? Is Barbie better now that she can twist at the hips? Were there other dolls similar dolls for girls to buy? PREDICT Girls would rather have a Barbie with realistic eyelashes. INFER It sounds as if the company thinks girls only want one Barbie. This product is not designed to appeal to boys. Barbie only seems to come in one design, perhaps with a single outfit at time. | CONNECT How does the price of the Barbie in this commercial compare with the price of a Barbie today. These days, Barbie is more about fashion than moves. Some of the words that pop up during this commercial are familiar, but some are outdated. FEEL Do most kids want to give up their old toys to get new ones? This makes feel long for a simpler time when toys weren't all electronic. EVALUATE Barbie's "new" outdoor look may encourage girls to wear shorter outifts. |
For more information about these six reading skills, see Reading Like a Reader.
