Writing Summaries

Jiang Education CentreSecondary 1Holiday Preparatory Course

What is a summary?

Definition:A brief restatement in your own words of a text's main ideas (Holt Handbook, 5th edition); a condensation of "an extended idea or argument into a sentence or more in your own words" (Little, Brown Handbook, 5th edition).

Characteristics:

Summaries identify the source of original text.

Summaries demonstrate your understanding of a text's subject matter.

Summaries are shorter (at least 60% shorter)than the original text--they omit the original text's "examples, asides, analogies, and rhetorical strategies: (Holt Handbook, 5th edition).

Summaries differ from paraphrases--paraphrases more closely follow the original text's presentation (they still use your words, but they are longer than summaries).

Summaries focus exclusively on the presentation of the writer's main ideas--they do not include your interpretations or opinions.

Summaries normally are written in your own words--they do not contain extended quotes or paraphrases.

Summaries rely on the use of standard signal phrases ("According to the author..."; "The author believes..."; etc.).

Tips on Writing Summaries

Step One (Prewriting):

Read the article quickly.

Try to get a sense of the article's general focus and content.

Step Two (Drafting):

Restate the article's thesis simply and in your own words.

Restate each paragraph's topic simply and in your own words.

Step Three (Revising):

Combine sentences in Step Two to form your summary; organize your summary sentences in the same order as the main ideas in the original text.

Edit very carefully for neatness and correctness.

Writing Tips: Summaries

Definition - Purposes of the Summary - What and When to Summarize How to Summarize - Summary Conventions - Example Summary :: DefinitionA summary is restating someone else's words in your words. There are many different kinds of summaries, and they vary according to the degree to which you interpret or analyze the source. Some are pages long, others just one or two sentences. However, for all types of summary, the writer is responsible for generally stating, in his or her own words, the main information or argument of another writer.:: Purposes of the SummaryBefore you write the summary, consider why your audience (professor, boss, client) wants to read it. Why shouldn't the reader just read the original? Summaries benefit the reader because they offer a concise, general version of the original information. For a busy reader, summaries provide quick overviews of material. Summaries also show readers that you have understood the general point of a text, and in this way, teachers can test your knowledge. The process of summarizing someone else's material enables you to better understand that material. Finally, summaries allow you to introduce knowledge within a research context: you can summarize someone's argument in order to analyze or critique it.:: What and When to SummarizeMany student writers tend to quote when they should summarize material. Quote only when the author expresses a point in a particularly telling or interesting language. Otherwise, simply summarize. Use a summary to restate an entire argument. Use a summary to present information. Summary is more economical than quotation because a summary allows the writer more control over the argument.:: How to Summarize: Read the original passage or text very carefully.: Use a pencil to highlight or underline what you take to be the main point of the original text, or make notes in the margins or on another sheet of paper.: If you're summarizing an entire essay, outline the writer's argument.: Now tell your audience what the original source argued.:: Summary Conventions: Summaries can range in length from two sentences to several pages. In any case, use complete sentences to describe an author's general points to your reader. Don't quote extensively. If you quote, use quotation marks and document the quotation. If you fail to document the quotation, even one word that the author used, you are plagiarizing material (presenting another person's information as if it were your own).

: Use the author's last name as a tag to introduce information: "Smith argues that population growth and environmental degradation are causally related." "Brown notes that education in the U.S. has undergone major revolutions in the past 20 years."

: Use the present tense (often called the historical present tense) to summarize the author's argument. "Green contends that the Republican and Democratic parties are funded by the same major corporations.":: Example SummaryThe following paragraph is summarized below. Note how the brief summary uses the principles outlined above.Riddle 1

They don't feel pain,No sorrow, nor greed.They have no anger,No hatred, nor greed.Who are they?Riddle 3

Around the corner there is a tree.Under the tree there is a school.In the school there is a desk.Behind the desk there is a bell.Behind the desk is a teacher.

What is her name?Riddle 4

What is it you have to answer?But to answer you have to ask?And to ask you have to speak?And to speak you have to know,The answer.

Riddle 2

They visit every single houseAnd wish to stay and eat.Such manners!When they get their food,They tread it with their feet.We wish these visitors would goYet, many a summer's dayThey cannot leave the papers whichWe buy to make them stay!What are they?

Paragraph:There are some four thousand species of mammals on the earth today but out of all these mammals, there are only four species which are considered by most people as livestock. These four are goats, pigs, sheep and cattle. These four types of animals survive best in a certain climate that of a European one. So not every country can raise these animals as food. Some scientists believe that there is a solution to this problem. In tropical countries, such as Asia, where mammals like sheep do not thrive, there are often other alternatives local animals that are similar to the four species and can adapt to local conditions.

The banteng of Indonesia is one such animal. It closely resembles cows in terms of physical appearance, but the fact is that it is not a cow. It is in fact, an animal found uniquely in Asian countries like Burma and Indonesia and was originally a wild animal. The banteng is however tame enough for farmers to work with. Indonesian farmers actually prefer it to a cow because it is more nimble and so can plough the fields which normal cattle cannot. The Indonesians also value the banteng because it provides tasty meat, even better than meat that we usually eat, like beef, pork or mutton. The banteng thrives in Indonesias climate, which is hot and humid. Other animals would probably not do as well in comparison.

Summarise the above passage in not more than 60 words:

Suggested answer - There are only four animals considered as livestock and they are predominantly reared in European climates but this can be overcome by adapting local animals for similar purposes. In Indonesia the cow-like banteng can perform all its duties as well as tasting better than other meats even though it is not of the same family as cattle.

Writing SummariesThe goal of writing a summary of an article, a chapter, or a book is to offer as accurately as possible the full sense of the original, but in a more condensed form. A summary restates the authors main point, purpose, intent, and supporting details in your own words.

The process of summarizing enables you to better grasp the original, and the result shows the reader that you understand it as well. In addition, the knowledge gained allows you to better analyze and critique the original.

First, try to find the main idea in the reading; its usually in the first paragraph. Next, skim through the article, glancing at any headings and graphics. Then, read the conclusion. The intent here is both to give yourself a review of the work and to effectively engage yourself with it.

Now go back and read the original text carefully, jotting down notes on or highlighting the important points. Write the central idea and the authors reasons (purpose and intent) for holding this viewpoint. Note the supporting elements the author uses to explain or back up her/his main information or claim.

Make an outline that includes the main idea and the supporting details. Arrange your information in a logical order, for example, most to least important or chronological. Your order need not be the same as that in the original, but keep related supporting points together. The way you organize the outline may serve as a model for how you divide and write the essay.

Write the summary, making sure to state the authors name in the first sentence. Present the main idea, followed by the supporting points. The remainder of your summary should focus on how the author supports, defines, and/or illustrates that main idea. Remember, unless otherwise stated by your dear teacher (ME! ME! ME!!, a summary should contain only the authors views, so try to be as objective as possible.

As you revise and edit your summary, compare it to the original and ask yourself questions such as: Have I rephrased the authors words without changing their meaning? Have I restated the main idea and the supporting points accurately and in my own words?

If you are asked to write a critical summary or to include a critique, you may want to ask yourself questions such as: Does the author succeed? How and why or why not? What are the strengths, weaknesses? Why? What did the author do well? Not well? Why?

Summarise the above passage in less than 60 words.

Passage 1 - Read through the passage carefully before you attempt any questions. Answer all the questions. (40 marks)1General Colin Powell is one of the most well known men in America. Some people even called for him to run for President. He declined to do so but he is still one of the most and well-liked leaders throughout America and the world. 2Powell was born in the 1930s when the world was caught up in the hardships brought about the Great Depression. He grew up poor, as his parents were migrants from Jamaica. His father was a clerk, his mother a seamstress. Although they were not very rich, they were determined to teach their children the right values. They instilled in Powell an awareness of the value of a good education. They wanted him to be able to rise above the standard of living that they had to settle for. 3Powell never really excelled in his studies until he joined the Reserve Officers Training Corps while in college. It was here that he found something that he really wanted to do and as he enjoyed it, he was very good at it and graduated with the highest possible rank as a cadet colonel. From here, Powell joined the army.4In the 1960s, America became involved in the Vietnam War. Before long, Powell was set to Vietnam to lead combat units. One day, while he and his unit were moving through a rice paddy, Powell stepped on a hidden trap. This trap had a sharp stick that pierced right through his left foot. He was withdrawn from the battlefield for treatment of that wound but not for long. Powell demonstrated his commitment to the army and to his country by returning to the battlefield after only a few weeks of recovery.5After returning home from Vietnam, Powell applied to further his studies. His parents teaching had stuck with him after all that time. However, when he wanted to do a graduate course, he was told that his academic record was not good enough. Powell was not deterred though and instead pushed himself harder to do well enough to go to graduate school. This dream was not fulfilled until a number of years later as he was called back to serve in Vietnam. 6Powell continued to forge ahead with his career. In the Army, he became commanding general of more than seventy thousand soldiers who were stationed in Germany. This was what he had always dreamed of doing and the realization of that dream made Powell extremely happy. However, before long, he had to give up his post. One day, he got a phone call. It was the President of the United States, asking him to join his National Security Council. 7Powell is an African-American, a race that is often discriminated against in America by other races. Yet despite his race, Powell has been able to succeed on his own merits. He never waited for people to stop and help him. Instead he, he worked hard and grabbed opportunities as they came by. Powell has been successful in reaching the top of his profession. In 1989, Powell was made the highest military officer in the country the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff meaning that he oversaw the United States Army, Air Force as well as the Navy. As a result of his success, he is regarded by many Americans of all backgrounds as a role model someone they admire and wish to emulate.

Colin Powell truly is a great man whose life has many lessons for everyone.

Section A (10 marks)

From paragraph 1: (2 marks)a) What does the fact that many people wanted Colin Powell to join the Presidential election tell you about him?

From Paragraph 2 : (1 mark)b) They wanted him to be able to rise above the standard of living that they had to settle for. (lines 10 - 11). What does this tell us about Powells parents hope for his future?

From Paragraph 3 : (1 mark)c) Do you think Powell did well when he joined Reserve Officers Training Corps?

From paragraph 4: (1 mark)d) Which sentence tell us that Powell had leadership abilities?

From Paragraph 5 : ( 1 mark)e) His parents teaching had stuck with all that time. (line 25) What does the teaching refer to?

From paragraph 6: (1 mark)f) Why did Powell have to give up the post which he had waited so long for?

From Paragraph 7: (1 mark)g) Which word in this paragraph means being treated unfairly and unequally?

From paragraph 8: (2 marks)h) What lesson can you draw from Colin Powells life?

Choose any five words from the following list. For each of them give one word or short phrase (of not more than 7 words) which has the same meaning as in the passage.(5mks)1. migrants (line )___________________________________________________2. instilled (line )___________________________________________________3. deterred (line )___________________________________________________4. forge (line )

___________________________________________________5. realization (line )___________________________________________________6. extremely (line )___________________________________________________

Summary

Write a summary on the career of Colin Powell, his rise to the post of chairman of Joint Chiefs of Staff. USE ONLY THE MATERIAL FROM PARAGRAPH 3 TO 7

Your summary should be in continuous writing and must not be longer than 100 words including the words given below. Begin your summary as follows (10marks)Colin Powell joined the Reserve Officers Training Corps

Women Drivers by Leong Liew GeokOur brakes dont squeal

Our cars cant speed

Our egos wont turn

Sharper than need We stop for red

We play by rules

We dont bend, or break

Cars with resale value

Wed rather give way

To our fellow men

Wanting to cut in

Than move up or pretend

Whats wrong with slowing down?With traffic were moving

While we mull over

Which way we arent going

Without sanity like ours

Imagine how roads would be

Demonized by thugs Unchecked and dashing free

We dont want to hurt

Wed rather not cheat

We dont like close shaves

Well ignore your heat

What is the poet saying about male drivers? (3marks)

Write a short poem of four lines (5 marks)

Passage 2 - Read through the passage carefully before you attempt any questions. Answer all the questions. (40 marks)

1The heat rose from the asphalt in the waves, turning non-air-conditioned vehicles like the taxi I was in into virtual ovens. I wiped my brows with an already sweaty shirt-sleeve. Ten minutes later, the taxi moved five metres and jerked to another halt. This is what it is like to be stuck in Bangkoks infamous traffic jam...

2Amazingly, despite the tropical heat and the snails pace at which they were moving, the motorists kept their cool. My taxi driver was a picture of serenity himself.

3I like to meditate in times like these, he said. It is the Buddhist way of life. 4Indeed, Buddhism dominates the Thai way of life. This should not come as a surprise, since about 95% of the population are Theravada Buddhists. Monks in saffron robes roaming the city streets are a common sight and it is almost impossible to survey the city skyline without seeing the imposing silhouette of some wat or other. For the locals, the wat, a temple complex consisting of a temple, a convocation hall and living quarters for monks is not just a place of worship but also a symbol of their rich and unique cultural heritage. In addition, the bigger and more famous wat in Bangkok give visitors an opportunity to offer their prayers in Thailands more sacred shrines and to marvel at the wonders of Thai architecture, with their ornate designs and vibrant colours.5The traffic light turned green and we made our way past spirit houses where -occasional passers-by stopped to say quick prayers which were juxtaposed against looming hotels and glittering shopping malls. It was a quaint sight typical of Thailands big cities, but appropriate in its symbolism. In the face of change and modernisation, some things will always remain the same.

6One such enduring quality is the gentle spirit of the Thai people. This characteristic is clearly evident in the wai, the traditional Thai greeting whereby the hands are put together, with the knees slightly bent and a soft smile on the face. Thais are warm towards everyone, even strangers. I had a first hand experience of Thai hospitality when I asked a Thai friend for directions to the toilet. Imagine my surprise when he took me by the hand and led me there personally. While such exhibitions of intimacy between men are unheard of in Singapore, it is a common practice in Thailand where everything is given a human touch. It is this heartfelt welcome given to their guests that keeps foreigners coming back year after year.7Thailand has many other attractions and for a rustic feeling, one can head off to Thailands pristine off-shore beaches and a tourist hot spot is Pattaya Beach with its blue waters and sea sports entertainment.

8Finally, I reached the hotel I was staying in. I knew that once I had finished writing the last chapter on my travels in Thailand, I would have to submit my manuscript.Section A (10 marks)

From paragraph 1: (1 mark)

a) Where was the author going when he got stuck in the traffic jam?

From Paragraph 2: (2 marks)b) What did the author mean by the motorists kept their cool (line 6).

From Paragraph 4: (1 mark)

c) What is a wat?

From paragraph 5: (2 marks)

d) Why is the juxtaposition of spirit houses and modern buildings symbolic?

From Paragraph 5: (2 marks)

e) Why was the author surprised when his Thai friend held his hand?

From paragraph 6: (1 mark)

f) From the passage, what facts can you deduce about the author and his profession?

From Paragraph 7: (1 mark)

g) Which word in this paragraph means being record of written work?

Choose any five words from the following list. For each of them give one word or short phrase (of not more than 7 words) which has the same meaning as in the passage. (5mks)

1. infamous (line 4) ______________________________________________________2. ornate (line 16)______________________________________________________3. quaint (line 19)______________________________________________________4. hospitality (line 27) _____________________________________________________

5. intimacy (line 29) ______________________________________________________6. pristine (line 34)______________________________________________________

Summary

In less than 100 words write about the authors experience after she left the car, using material from paragraph 5-12. (10 marks)USE ONLY THE MATERIAL FROM PARAGRAPH 5 TO 12Your summary should be in continuous writing and must not be longer than 100 words including the words given below.

Literary Appreciation

Metaphor: A figure of speech that expresses an idea through the HYPERLINK "http://www.gale.com/free_resources/glossary/glossary_im.htm" \l "image" image of another object. Metaphors suggest the essence of the first object by identifying it with certain qualities of the second object.

His heart was as hard as a rock

Literary Appreciation

Alliteration: A poetic device where the first consonant sounds or any vowel sounds in words or syllables are repeated.

Sea Shells, sea shells by the sea shore

Why were the teacher's eyes crossed?

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He couldn't control his pupils!!

PAGE 15Seeing much, suffering much, and studying much, are the three pillars of learning. Benjamin Israeli