As a mom I know how important it is for my kids to take great notes at school so that they have all the appropriate material they need to study for texts.
My son needs to learn better study habits. He also has to learn how to take better notes. I have seen his class notes and they are worthless. He doesn’t really write down much information, only bits and pieces. He barely has anything to study and his lackluster grades reflect that.
I found this article from Oxford Learning very interesting. I think other parents might enjoy these tips too.
I have permission to share this article with my readers.
1. Sit front and center
Encourage your child to sit near the front and middle of the classroom, where they are less likely to be distracted or tempted to do other things. This will make it easier for them to focus and stay on task.
2. Use a binder
Have your child keep their notes, handouts, and worksheets in a binder rather than a notebook. This allows them to easily add, rearrange, and organize in chronological order.
3. Use headings and dates
Have your son or daughter write a heading and the date on every page so s/he can easily organize the pages in chronological order in a binder. This also comes in handy if having to refer to previous information to fully understand a current lesson.
4. Think before you write
Practice having your child write down the key points and phrases from a presentation. Encourage them to listen to what the teacher is saying and write down the main points in their own words, rather than trying to write every word the teacher says. This will encourage them to be more engaged with the material and keep them from getting lost in their notes.
5. Save memorable examples
Examples and stories are very important in creating connections in your child’s brain and can help with understanding material. If the teacher gives an example, write it down!
6. Search for clues
Help your child spot clues that teachers give to demonstrate that something is important. For example, they may repeat something, write it on the board, and/or include several examples for students.
7. Leave spaces
Students should leave spaces between sections of notes, so they can add comments as they review, study, or re-read notes.
8. Re-write or re-type
Students should be encouraged to re-write or even re-type notes to make them more organized and make studying easier. Additionally, re-writing notes can be an effective method to study material.
9. Read and review
Students should review their notes on a frequent basis. The more often they read them, the easier it is to rely on their memory and the less time they’ll spend studying them prior to a test or exam.
10. Get some professional help
If you require more assistance with paying attention in class, taking notes or studying, contact your nearest location.
Oxford Learning provides supplemental education services across North America. It offers programs for young people from preschool through university, and its cognitive approach goes beyond tutoring to ignite a lifelong love of learning. Find out more at http://www.OxfordLearning.com.