4MAT Review 1 covers Gottman’s entire book, The Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work
The 4MAT Review system is a way of responding to readings that requires you to interact with new ideas on several levels. Your 4MAT Review must each be 5 pages.
Use the following format in preparing your 4MAT Reviews:
Summary
After listing the author and chapter, summarize what you have read as if you were the author condensing the book into 400 tight words. Prove that you comprehend the readings by writing a no-nonsense summary. This section is not a commentary or listing of topics, but rather an in depth, insightful “précis” of the content.
Concrete Responses
Get vulnerable! In 250 words, relate a personal life experience that this book connected with in your own life. Relate your story in first person, describing action and quoting sentences you remember hearing or saying. In the teaching style of Jesus, this is a do-it-yourself parable, case study, and/or confession. You will remember almost nothing you have read unless you make this critical, personal connection. What video memory began to roll? This is your chance to tell your story and make new ideas found in the book your own.
Reflection
What new questions arise for you in response to what you have read? Keep a rough note sheet at hand as you read. Begin with questions like, “What would I like further information on?” Where do I not agree/strongly agree with the author?” or “What bothers me/excites me about this content?” This section must be about 250 words.
Application
How does the information in the book influence how you are going to continue your own personal growth process? What actions or changes are you going to make in your life as a result of your learning? Your response here is a matter of obedience first, questions later. Be precise in summarizing your action steps. This section must be limited about 250 words.
Please note: Your grade on each 4MAT Review depends on the manner in which you address each of these 4 dimensions of response to readings.
