When you arrive to take the CPE, you will receive a writing assignment for Task I and a short reading which, along with the long reading you have already received, will be the basis for your Task I essay. You will not have as much time to review this reading as you did with the long reading, but you should still approach it using the critical reading strategies listed below. Although you have less time with this reading, you will have the advantage of reading it in context of knowing the specific writing assignment you are expected to complete.
        Below are some guidelines for working with the short reading and preparing to begin writing your essay for the CPE. You can practice for this using the sample readings that appear in your test booklet.
        If you need more help, check the schedule of CPE workshops, offered by the Reading/Writing Center each semester.

1. Read through the short reading, stopping only to look up words you do not know (write the definitions in the margins). Try to get the general idea as you go.

2. Read the writing assignment. Underline each task involved in the assignment, and make sure you understand each one.

3. Read the short reading again at your normal reading speed. As you do so, underline the thesis and any key points that specifically relate to the topic of the writing assignment.

4. Look back at your copy of the long reading. Utilizing your marginal notes, highlighting, and summary of the long reading, consider how the two essays relate. What are the shared topics? Which points are in agreement and which in disagreement?

5. Review the writing assignment . Consider how you will utilize each reading to complete the tasks assigned.

6. Formulate a thesis for your essay. Write it down in a sentence or two. Now scan through both the long and the short readings, marking points that you will touch on in your writing, points which will support your thesis.

7. You are now ready to begin writing your essay.