Leesvaardigheid: using evidence from the English text
Leesvaardigheid tests whether you can use an English text to answer a question, not whether you can translate every word. HAVO reading tasks cover main idea, details, inferences, vocabulary in context, purpose/tone, reference and text structure. Questions may be multiple-choice or open; the instruction tells you whether to answer in Dutch or English.
Read the question first
Identify the question type before returning to the text. Underline the key noun, the line reference and any limitation such as 'in paragraph 2' or 'not'. For a main-idea question, check the whole text; for a detail question, find the exact sentence.
Evidence beats recognition
A correct option is supported by the text, not by a word that merely looks familiar. For inference, combine two or three clues. Reject options that are too absolute, true in general but not here, or that confuse who did what.
Vocabulary and open answers
Use the surrounding sentence, word formation and punctuation to guess meaning. Do not trust a Dutch-looking cognate. In open answers, use the requested language, answer the actual question and use your own words when told to.
Worked example
Text: 'The council’s plastic-free market was welcomed by shoppers, but stallholders warned that the extra cost of paper bags could drive smaller traders away.' Question: What concern do stallholders have? A Shoppers will stop coming. B Paper bags cost too much for small businesses. C The council should pay for bags. D The market will close. Reasoning: 'but' signals the stallholders’ contrast; 'extra cost … could drive smaller traders away' matches B. A and C are not stated; D exaggerates.
Traps
Copying a phrase without answering; ignoring 'not/except'; choosing an option because it repeats a text word; over-inferring; missing the required answer language.