Linking words or discourse markers – such as however, but, therefore, for example, so that, finally, stated simply – may help to indicate the meaning of a particular word. E.g.: ... the concept of worldview is among the most important elements of the perceptual attributes influencing intercultural communication. Stated simply, worldview is what forms people’s orientation toward such philosophical concepts as deities, the universe, nature, and the like.
Text organisation. Headings and subheadings clearly delineate the logistics of the text. Sections A, B, C, and D identify 4 main constructs of culture.
Answer the following questions:
What are the four major characteristics of culture?
What are the four major constructs of culture?
What is meant by the cognitive patterns of culture?
What is meant by the contextual rules of culture?
You should skim a paragraph or section before choosing the correct answer from the text. Remember that it is more efficient to skim the long piece of text first and get the idea of the whole text. Then you can look through the alternative headings very quickly.
Step 1. Survey the text.The headings will give you some clues to help you quickly understand what each part of the text is about.
Step 2. Skim-read each paragraph.Every paragraph deals with a specific aspect of a topic. The first sentence of a paragraph may tell you what the rest of the paragraph is about. Therefore while trying to identify the main idea of a paragraph, you should read the first sentence and skim the rest of the paragraph.
Scan the text for key words.
This title Culture’s components can help you understand that key words must concern any kinds of constructs, or be connected with effects, of culture.
Follow the three-step strategy to make finding key words easier.
Step 1. Make sureyou know what you are looking for.
Step 2. Scan each paragraph for 4-5 key words. Do not read every word.
Step 3. Select5-10 key words for the whole text.
Write a 10-line abstract of the text basing on the key words. Make sure to mention all characteristics, constructs, cognitive patterns and contextual rules of culture.
Collect specific informationby pointing out groups of synonyms, semantic and thematic groups. Keep it in mind that vocabulary in context includes both single words (usually nouns, verbs, adjectives, and adverbs). and two- or three-word phrases.