Reading Skills in Communication Skills
• "The doorway to undrstanding and
connection"
Reading Skills in Communication Skills
Introduction
"The doorway to understanding and connecting"
• Reading is more than decoding words — it’s
about understanding and interpreting
meaning.
• Plays a vital role in effective communication.
• Builds vocabulary, comprehension, and
analytical skills.
Importance of Reading in Communication
• Improves clarity of thought.
• Enhances vocabulary and grammar.
• Boosts confidence in speaking and writing.
• Develops empathy by understanding different
perspectives.
Types of Reading Skills
• Skimming – Quick reading to get the gist.
• Scanning – Looking for specific information.
• Extensive Reading – Reading for
pleasure/general understanding.
• Intensive Reading – Close reading for detail
and analysis.
Skimming
• Definition: Rapid reading to grasp the main
idea.
• Used for: News headlines, summaries,
academic overviews.
• Tip: Focus on headings, subheadings, first and
last sentences.
Scanning
• Definition: Searching for specific facts or
keywords.
• Used for: Timetables, forms, lists, research
data.
• Tip: Ignore irrelevant details; keep keywords in
mind.
Intensive Reading
• Reading carefully for detailed understanding.
• Used for: Contracts, academic articles,
reports.
• Tip: Highlight important points, annotate
margins.
Extensive Reading
• Reading widely for enjoyment and overall
knowledge.
• Examples: Novels, magazines, blogs.
• Benefit: Improves language fluency naturally.
Barriers to Effective Reading
• Poor vocabulary.
• Lack of concentration.
• Disinterest in content.
• Ineffective reading strategies.
Overcoming Barriers
• Build vocabulary through regular practice.
• Read in a distraction-free environment.
• Choose content suited to interest and need.
• Apply active reading strategies.
Active Reading Strategies
• Preview before reading.
• Ask questions while reading.
• Highlight and make notes.
• Summarize after reading.
Reading and Critical Thinking
• Reading fosters analysis and evaluation.
• Helps in identifying bias and assumptions.
• Encourages forming independent opinions.
Role in Professional Communication
• Improves report writing.
• Enhances presentation quality.
• Aids in understanding workplace documents.
Reading for Listening & Speaking
• Reading exposes you to correct pronunciation.
• Expands topic knowledge for discussions.
• Builds fluency and coherence in speech.
Tips for Developing Reading Habits
• Read daily, even if for 10 minutes.
• Keep a reading journal.
• Join book clubs or discussion groups.
• Use both print and digital resources.
Summary
• Reading is a foundational communication skill.
• Different strategies suit different purposes.
• Consistent practice leads to improvement in
all forms of communication.
