What reading strategy is most effective for anticipating main points in a science textbook?

The most effective reading strategy for anticipating main points in a science textbook involves directly anticipating the main points that will be presented in the chapter. This strategy helps students focus their reading by creating a mental framework of what to expect, enabling them to actively engage with the text as they look for evidence that supports or elaborates on their anticipations. By forecasting the main ideas, readers can better organize the information in their minds, making it easier to comprehend and remember key concepts when they encounter them.

The other strategies, while useful in their own right, do not specifically target the process of anticipating main points. Drawing analogies can support understanding but does not directly help in identifying what key points will be covered. Comprehending scientific terminology is essential for understanding the content but does not aid in predicting the overarching themes or main ideas of the chapter. Relating subject matter to prior knowledge may enhance comprehension, yet it does not inherently provide a structure for predicting what will be emphasized in the forthcoming text. Thus, the focus on anticipating main points stands out as the most direct and effective strategy for preparing to engage with a science textbook.