Processing New Info

Worksheet Description

The Synthesis Worksheet is a tool designed to assist students in the active reading process by tracking their thoughts and knowledge before, during, and after reading a text. The worksheet is divided into three sections, prompting students to write down their initial thoughts about the topic, to take notes on their thoughts while reading, and to summarize their new understanding upon completing the reading. This format helps students to engage with the reading material actively and to observe the evolution of their thinking.

The worksheet teaches students to be reflective and critical readers. It guides them to pre-assess their knowledge and expectations, to be attentive to their changing comprehension as they acquire new information, and to synthesize this information to form a coherent post-reading perspective. By filling out this worksheet, students practice the important skill of synthesis, which involves combining prior knowledge with new insights to deepen their understanding of a topic. This method is essential for developing analytical skills and for fostering a habit of mindful reading.