Reading tips needed.
How long would it take you to read 44 pages in Spanish about the culture and geography of the land of Latin America? Just wondering how to go about finishing this reading and still retain the information! I have never read this much in Spanish at once, the most has been six to nine pages. 
Any tips?
3 Answers
Hi, sounds like your class is off to a galloping start! You don't say how big the pages are, or how many pictures, but in English I usually give myself about 2 minutes per page. So maybe 2 hours at a minimum?
The tips I give my students (env. sci., but its the same in principle):
Most people can't read a textbook for longer than 20 minutes at a time, without yawning and watery eyes ... so definitely break it up!
If there are pictures or subheadings or charts or anything like that, its always a good idea to look at those first and try to get a general sense of how the whole chapter fits together.
Before you start reading, formulate your own questions -- questions that YOU would like an answer to. You might not get an answer, but at least it gives you something to look for.
Read actively. Underline, write questions in the margins, star the important things. Draw yourself little maps or schematics to remember the details.
Right now it must seem like trial by fire, but you know in a few weeks it will seem natural to read this much!! (My class starts next Monday, so I'm still chipper!)
I'd say focus and take notes. I know what you mean though!! Sometimes I'll be reading and my mind wanders off thinking about something else. Then all of a sudden oh no!!! I have no idea what I just read!! That's when taking notes comes in handy. It helps you stay focused and in the case that you can't retain it, you'll be able to go over the most important parts. GOOD LUCK!!! I hope this helps!! 
Thanks to you all I better get to it since I am awake!!
