Reading Skill Focus: Reading Articles and Reports on Contemporary Problems (B2 Level)
At B2 level, you can read and understand the main ideas and significant details in articles and reports discussing contemporary problems (e.g., social, political, environmental issues) written for a general audience (like those found in newspapers, magazines, or reputable websites).
Key Abilities for B2 Reading (Articles/Reports):
- Understanding Main Points and Arguments:
- Quickly identifying the main topic and the overall purpose of the text (e.g., to inform, persuade, criticize).
- Understanding the author's main viewpoint or conclusion regarding the problem discussed.
- Following the main arguments presented and the evidence or reasons given to support them.
- Identifying Specific Information:
- Locating and understanding key facts, figures, examples, or statistics relevant to the issue.
- Understanding the meaning of specialized vocabulary related to common contemporary problems (see Vocabulary: Current Affairs, Social Issues, Environment) when the context provides clues.
- Recognizing Text Structure and Cohesion:
- Understanding how the text is organized (e.g., introduction of problem, causes, effects, solutions, conclusion).
- Recognizing linking words and phrases (
hoewel,desondanks,enerzijds... anderzijds,bijgevolg) and understanding how they connect ideas.
- Interpreting Attitude and Opinion:
- Identifying the author's stance or attitude (neutral, critical, supportive, concerned) towards the problem, even if not stated explicitly.
- Distinguishing factual information from the author's opinions or interpretations.
- Dealing with Unfamiliar Vocabulary:
- Using context effectively to guess the meaning of unknown words or expressions.
- Knowing when it is necessary to use a dictionary for comprehension of key terms.
Limitations at B2:
- May find highly specialized or academic reports on complex issues challenging.
- Might struggle with texts that rely heavily on implicit meaning, irony, or cultural references.
- Reading speed may still be slower than a native speaker for dense texts.
- Full understanding might require occasional dictionary use.
Importance for B2:
- Crucial for staying informed about important issues discussed in society.
- Enables engagement with diverse perspectives on contemporary problems.
- Necessary for academic study or professional fields where reading reports or articles is required.
- Expands vocabulary related to relevant societal topics.
Learning Strategy:
- Read Regularly: Follow Dutch news sources, read opinion pieces (
op-ed), and look for articles or reports on topics that interest you (environment, technology, social trends). - Focus on Structure: Pay attention to headings, subheadings, introductory and concluding paragraphs to understand the organization.
- Identify the Author's Stance: Actively look for clues (word choice, arguments presented) that indicate the author's viewpoint.
- Summarize: After reading, try to summarize the main problem, arguments, and conclusions in your own words.
- Vocabulary Building: Note down key vocabulary related to recurring contemporary issues.
- Discuss: Talk about the articles or reports you read with others to check understanding and exchange perspectives.