The Houghton Mifflin College Reading Series follows a consistent sequence and structure, pairing skills and strategies with paragraphs and short selections to introduce new concepts in context. The readings represent a diverse range of sources, including textbooks and magazines. There is ample opportunity for practice with the Test Yourself sections, end-of-chapter Tests, and Combined Skills Tests. The Houghton Mifflin College Reading Series Book 2, 2/e is the second book in a three-level series and is designed for mid-level reading courses. The readings in the Second Edition have been updated for currency and relevance to students' interest, and have been reviewed carefully to ensure grade-level appropriateness. An affordable price point—each book in the series contains the same topics and content as other comparable textbooks, but for a third of the price. Chapter objectives are clearly stated so students know what they will learn when the chapter is completed—encouraging students to take charge of their learning. Tips and selected readings for studying and for succeeding in school are integrated throughout the text. Self-assessment opportunities are featured throughout the text, including with the chapter Test Yourself sections, end-of-chapter Tests, and Combined Skills Tests. Review sections have been specifically designed to help students hone their critical thinking skills. An emphasis on enhanced vocabulary can be founded in every chapter Definitions of difficult words and allusions in the readings appear as footnotes so that students don't have to go to outside sources to look up definitions. A flexible format allows instructors to introduce skills and activities or re-order chapters as they see fit. Critical Reading (Chapter 9) shows that most arguments aren't just pro-con but can have multiple perspectives between one extreme and another. Enhance vocabulary: Every chapter covers a particular vocabulary concept in context. Study without stress: Definitions of difficult words and allusions in the readings appear as footnotes so that students don't have to go to outside sources to look up definitions. Patterns of Organization (Chapter 6) has been expanded to include classification, division, and illustration. Coverage of Purpose and Tone (Chapter 8) is thorough and includes a discussion of how these can change when different writers write on the same topic but for different audiences.