POWER READING

"Power Reading is an advanced course designed to help college preparatory students improve their reading comprehension and reading speed. Based upon several best practices in reading, the course utilizes reading materials from a variety of sources: books, newspapers, paperbacks, periodicals, etc. Not only will the students learn how to survey, set purpose, speculate, skim read, study read, and pace, but they will also learn where and when to use these tools. Critical analysis of reading material is also emphasized using summaries and comparison/contrast. Furthermore, an emphasis on vocabulary building is incorporated into the course to help students improve their reading comprehension and writing ability. Three additional readings of a novel, biography, or nonfiction book with an accompanying paper/project are required. Because emphasis is placed on reading comprehension and vocabulary acquisition, successful completion of this course has been helpful in raising students’ ACT scores. Power Reading is highly recommended for students planning to further their education beyond high school, but it is open to any student who likes a challenging course."

Courtesy of  2025-26 Program of Studies