The Importance of Comprehension in PLAB 1
- By (5 articles)
Ever wondered what the most important thing in PLAB 1 is? Well I can tell you right now that it is comprehension. Some people have difficulties with understanding what this is and how to improve these and I can guide you through that.
What is PLAB 1?
PLAB 1 is a written exam made up of 180 multiple choice questions which you must answer within three hours. Each starts with a short scenario followed by a question. You need to choose the right answer out of the five possible answers given. You can sit part 1 in a number of countries, as well as in the UK.
What is reading comprehension?
Comprehension refers to the ability to understand written words. It is different from the ability to recognize words. Recognizing words on a page but not knowing what they mean does not fulfil the purpose or goal of reading, which is comprehension. For example, that a teacher gives a learner a passage to read. The learner can read the entire passage, but they know nothing when asked to explain what was read. Comprehension adds meaning to what is read. Reading comprehension occurs when words on a page is not more just more words but thoughts and ideas. Comprehension makes reading enjoyable, fun, and informative. It is needed to succeed in your studies, when at work, and life in general.
5 reading comprehension tips
1. Stop when you get confused and try to summarise what you just read
As you read, let yourself stop whenever you lose focus or feel confused. Just stop. Now, without re-reading, summarize aloud or in your head what you’ve comprehended so far (before the place where you become confused).
2. If you’re struggling, try reading aloud.
Sometimes, we can form a sort of “mental block” that can halt our reading progress for whatever reason (maybe the sentence looks complex or awkward, maybe you’re tired, maybe you feel intimidated by the word choice, or are simply bored).
3. Re-read (or skim) previous sections of the test
It is often helpful to glance backwards through a piece of text (or even re- read large sections) to remind yourself of any information you need and have forgotten- What happened previously, what a particular word means, who a person was… the list Is endless.
SSkim or read upcoming sections of the text
Sometimes a current confusion is a work place will be explained later on in the text, and it can help you to know that explanations are upcoming or even just to read them ahead of time.
5 Discuss the text with a friend (even an imaginary friend)
Sometimes discussing what you know so far about a text can help clear up any confusion. If you have a friend who hasn’t read the text in question, then explain it to them in your own words, and discuss where you feel your comprehension is lacking. You’ll find that you’ve probably understood more than you think once you’ve been forced to explain it to someone who’s completely unfamiliar with the piece.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, comprehension is one of the main skills you need when it comes to doing your PLAB 1 exam and as you can see that there are different ways of training for this.
Contact us today on 02036376722 (UK) or +442036376722 (outside of the UK)
