The following are a few guides to give you a few pointers in how to read a scientific paper:
What is a primary source?
Primary sources are original materials. These sources are from the time period involved and have not been filtered through interpretation or evaluation. Primary sources are original materials on which other research is based. They represent original thinking, report a discovery, or share new information. Some types of primary sources in the sciences include:
What is a secondary source?
A secondary source interprets and analyzes primary sources. These sources are usually one or more steps removed from the event. Secondary sources may have pictures, quotes or graphics of primary sources in them. Some types of secondary sources include:
For more information on primary and secondary sources, the University of Maryland library provides a helpful and concise overview on the types of sources you will encounter while doing your research.