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2.6. Active Reading (Study skill)

Learning Objectives

A the end of this lesson, students will be able to:

  • Explain the importance of active reading and note-taking for studying and retaining information, particularly for the CMA exam.
  • Identify and apply active reading strategies, such as highlighting and summarizing, to extract key information from study materials.
  • Describe and utilize different note-taking methods (Cornell Method, Mind Mapping, Outline Method) to organize information effectively.
  • Collaborate with peers to share and evaluate reading and note-taking strategies, gaining insight into their effectiveness.
  • Reflect on their learning and set personal goals for incorporating active reading and note-taking into their study routines.

Part 1: Warm-Up: Reflecting on Current Study Habits

Reflect on how you currently read and study. Write your responses to the following questions. Then, share your answers during the class discussion.

  • What do you usually do when you read study materials?
  • How do you remember key information?
  • What challenges do you face when studying?

Discussion

Share your answers to the above questions and the importance of active reading and note-taking in studying for the CMA exam.

Part 2: Applying Active Reading Strategies

Your instructor will explain the two active reading strategies,

  • Highlighting: Identifying key terms and concepts while reading.
  • Summarizing: Writing brief summaries of sections to capture main ideas.

Read the passage below on Understanding Diabetes Management. While reading, highlight key points, terms, and concepts. After reading, write a short summary (3-5 sentences) of the main ideas.

Reading Passage: Understanding Diabetes Management

Diabetes management focuses on controlling blood sugar levels to prevent complications. This chronic condition occurs when the body either does not produce enough insulin or cannot use insulin effectively, leading to elevated blood glucose levels. The main types of diabetes are Type 1, where the body fails to produce insulin, and Type 2, which is often associated with insulin resistance and is more common in adults. Regardless of the type, effective management is crucial for maintaining overall health and preventing serious complications, such as heart disease, kidney damage, and vision problems.
A key component of diabetes management is monitoring glucose levels regularly. Patients are encouraged to check their blood sugar levels multiple times a day, especially before meals and at bedtime. This helps them understand how their diet, physical activity, and medications affect their blood sugar levels. Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) systems are also available, providing real-time data and alerts for high and low blood sugar levels. By keeping a close eye on their glucose levels, patients can make informed decisions about their care and lifestyle adjustments.
Adhering to a balanced diet is another critical aspect of managing diabetes. Patients should focus on consuming a variety of nutrient-dense foods, including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Carbohydrate counting is particularly important, as carbs have the most significant impact on blood sugar levels. Many patients find it helpful to work with a registered dietitian who specializes in diabetes management to create a personalized meal plan that meets their nutritional needs while also keeping their blood sugar levels stable.
Regular physical activity plays a vital role in diabetes management as well. Exercise helps improve insulin sensitivity, reduces body fat, and lowers blood sugar levels. The American Diabetes Association recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity per week, along with strength training exercises at least twice a week. Patients should choose activities they enjoy, such as walking, swimming, or biking, to make it easier to incorporate exercise into their daily routines. It’s essential for individuals with diabetes to consult with their healthcare team before starting any new exercise program to ensure safety and effectiveness.
Lastly, taking prescribed medications as directed is crucial for managing diabetes effectively. This may include insulin therapy for Type 1 diabetes and various oral medications for Type 2 diabetes. Patients must understand their medications, including how they work and their potential side effects. Proper education and communication with healthcare providers are essential for effective management. Regular check-ups and follow-up appointments allow healthcare teams to monitor progress, make necessary adjustments to treatment plans, and provide support for patients as they navigate their diabetes journey. By taking a proactive approach to their health, individuals with diabetes can lead fulfilling lives while minimizing the risk of complications.

 

Part 3: Note-Taking

Read the three note-taking methods, and tell your partner which method you like to use most.

Note-Taking Methods
Effective note-taking is a crucial skill for students, especially when studying for exams like the CMA. Here are three popular note-taking methods that can help you organize information and enhance your understanding of the material.

1. Cornell Method

The Cornell Method divides your note page into three sections: a narrow left column for cues or questions, a larger right column for detailed notes, and a summary section at the bottom.
Example:
Notes (Right Column): Write down key points from your lecture or reading, such as “Diabetes management includes monitoring blood sugar, diet, and exercise.”
Cues (Left Column): After the lecture, jot down questions or keywords that relate to the notes, like “What are the symptoms of diabetes?”
Summary (Bottom): At the end of your notes, write a brief summary of the main ideas, such as “Effective diabetes management requires a combination of lifestyle changes and regular monitoring.”
This method helps you review and test your understanding later.

2. The Outline Method

The Outline Method organizes information in a structured format using headings and bullet points. This method is great for capturing hierarchical relationships between concepts.
Example:
I. Diabetes Management
A. Monitoring Blood Sugar

  • Frequency of checks
  • Tools used (e.g., glucometer)

B. Diet

  • Foods to include (fruits, vegetables)
  • Foods to avoid (sugary snacks)

C. Exercise

  • Recommended activities (walking, swimming)
  • Frequency (at least 150 minutes per week)

This method allows you to see the main topics and subtopics clearly, making it easier to study.

3. Mind mapping

Mind Mapping is a visual note-taking method that helps you see connections between ideas. You start with a central concept and branch out to related topics.
Example:
Start with “Diabetes Management” in the center of your page.
Draw branches for each main area: “Monitoring,” “Diet,” “Exercise.”
From each branch, add smaller branches with details, such as “Blood Sugar Levels” under “Monitoring” and “Healthy Foods” under “Diet.”
This method is particularly useful for visual learners and helps in brainstorming and organizing thoughts.

Part 4: Practice Note-Taking Techniques

Note-Taking Techniques: Cornell Method

Mind Mapping

The following mind map is about Chapter 22. Read chapter 22, and answer as many questions in 30 minutes.

This image is about a concept map titled “Chapter 22: Endocrinology” visually organizes key topics related to the endocrine system.

 

Part 5: Wrap-Up: Set a Personal Goal

Reflect on the lesson and answer the following questions:

  • Which active reading strategy do you find most helpful (highlighting or summarizing)? Why?
  • Which note-taking method worked best for you? Why?
  • What personal goal will you set for applying these techniques in your studies?
    • (Example: “I will highlight key points in every chapter I read and create a summary for each section to prepare for weekly quizzes.”)

Media Attributions

  • Chapter 22 Mind map

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Basic Skills for Clinical Medical Assistant Copyright © 2025 by Montgomery College is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License, except where otherwise noted.

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