Reading viewpoints: tracking opinions
By Michael Ukwuma
A method for the hardest reading part, where several people share different opinions.
Name each writer and their main point
In the viewpoints part, do not try to remember everything. After each writer, pause and say the main idea to yourself in six words or fewer. For example: supports a later start because of teen sleep.
Look for agreement and disagreement
Questions often ask which writers agree or what one writer thinks of another's idea. Look for signal phrases such as I agree, however, but, with respect and I would rather. These show the relationship between opinions.
Facts and opinions
Pay attention to whether a statement is a fact, such as a study result, or an opinion, such as the board has a duty to act. Some questions ask which statement is an opinion or which one supports a writer's argument.
Key points
- Summarise each writer in a few words.
- Watch signal words that show agreement or disagreement.
- Separate facts from opinions.