1. Intensive Reading
Intensive reading is a type of reading that is done for the purpose of comprehension or interpretation. It is usually done with reading material that is challenging, such as novels or plays. Intensive reading requires active involvement from the reader, who must carefully read and analyze the text. This type of reading habit is often used in academic settings, as it can help students to understand and interpret complex texts.
In contrast to extensive reading, which is done for the purpose of pleasure or fluency, intensive reading is focused on understanding the meaning of the text. As a result, it can be a slower and more difficult process. However, it can also be very rewarding, as it can deepen one’s understanding of the text and provide a richer reading experience.
Example: If you read this page carefully, to really understand these four types of active reading, you would be reading intensively. Ways to actively do this could be to look up new vocabulary that helps you understand the ideas more fully, think of times when you would use each specific kind of reading, or maybe check to see if it reminds you or makes you think about something else.
2. Extensive Reading
Extensive reading is a reading style that allows readers to practice their skills and improve their fluency. It involves reading large amounts of text, usually for pleasure, and can be done both inside and outside of the classroom. Extensive reading can be used to build vocabulary, improve comprehension, and develop a love of reading. Especially if you have a shallow understanding of your favourite books and want to acquire an excellent attention span.
It is important to select texts that are appropriate for the reader’s level, as this will ensure that they are able to understand and enjoy the material. There are many different types of texts available for extensive reading, including books, magazines, newspapers, and online articles. By engaging in extensive reading on a regular basis, readers can improve their language skills and become more confident in their ability to read English.
Example: Here is a link to some extensive reading: https://becomingbetterlearners.club/top-four-active-reading-skills/extensive-reading-sample/
3. Skimming
Reading is not a one-size-fits-all activity. Depending on the purpose for reading, different types of reading techniques may be more appropriate. For instance, if you are trying to get a general understanding of a text, skimming may be the best strategy. Skimming techniques allow you to quickly pick up the main idea of a text without getting bogged down in the details. These types of reading can often be used when time is limited and you only need a general understanding of the material. However, it is important to note that skimming should not be used when trying to learn new information or remember complex details. For these purposes, slow, careful reading is necessary in order to fully process and understand the text.
Example: If you skim this page, what do you find?
4. Scanning
Scanning is a type of rapid reading where you look for specific information. This could be a word, phrase, or number. When you scan, you move your eyes quickly across a text, looking for the information you need. Scanning is often used when you only need to find a small amount of information, such as a name or a date. It is also useful for skimming large amounts of text to get an overview of the content. There are different types of scanning: horizontal, vertical, and zigzag. Horizontal scanning involves moving your eyes from left to right across a line of text. Vertical scanning means moving your eyes down the page, line by line. Zigzag scanning is a mixture of both horizontal and vertical scanning, and involve moving your eyes in a zigzag pattern across the page.
Example: What is “zigzag scanning”? If you can find it, without reading everything else, you were scanning for the information.
Descriptions excerpted from: https://blog.lillypad.ai/types-of-reading-skills/