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.
Here is a commercial that was quite effective with its public service message.
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.
Here is a commercial that was quite effective with its public service message.
| QUESTION What are they trying to sell in this commercial? Who is the Indian in the commercial? Does the Native American here represent all tribes? Do Native Americans still use canoes on the river? PREDICT People will dispose of their trash more appropriately. People will begin to get sick from the filthy conditions. INFER The man is tearful because of pollution. Is the commercial implying that Native Americans care for nature, and people of other races do not? | CONNECT Sometimes my bedroom is as messy as the highway in this advertisement. I love nature, and I don't like it when people pollute it. FEEL I feel angry when people disrespect nature. The commercial accurately depicts the sorrow that is felt by people who love the outdoors. EVALUATE Does this message depict Indians as weak? Does this message send the message that Indians care more for the environment than other races of people? |
For more information about these six reading skills, see Reading Like a Reader.
