Study Smarter Not Harder

• Students who are given instruction in the area of Study Skills show an increase in academic confidence higher grades and concrete skills of retention and recall for a life of on-going learning. They also show a decrease in the amount of anxiety surrounding the learning process.
• Learning is a partnership that requires the consistent committed participation of parents students and teachers.
• Study Skills are learning strategies that start small are reinforced rewarded build confidence and then eventually become self-reinforcing.

Study Skills Keys

1. Active Organization

• Use a Planner
  The simple act of recording tasks tests and assignments is a life-long habit that is best learned now.
• Maintain your Notebook
  Three-ring binders are essential tools for getting organized. It is crucial that EVERYTHING goes in the binder and pages are dated. Think in units.

2. Active Listening

• Pay attention in class
  Brains cannot multitask. Focus in class is imperative for hearing the information the first time.
• Take notes
  Engaging in note-taking begins the process of transferring information from the short term to the long term memory. The Cornell method of note-taking was developed on how the brain learns most effectively.

3. Active Studying

• Rehearse daily
  Review Cornell notes after each class for optimum retention.

Review key words in left hand column, summarize the page of notes in the bottom portion and record questions

4. Active Test and Exam Review

• Create good internal space (relaxation techniques deep breathing) and good external space (no distractions)
• Take frequent breaks (20 min. focused study - 10 minute break)
• Anticipate test questions
• Use study power tools - Flash Card and Mind Mapping.

Implementing even one of the strategies above will increase your academic confidence and improve your grades. Try starting with one strategy for one course. Remember we're aiming for better, not perfect!

Successful Student Resources

Being a successful student involves focussing in class seeking help when it's needed completing homework regularly - and being organized. Having information you need in an organized way will help you meet your academic goals and manage your time and study patterns wisely. It will also free you to be involved in the life of the school outside the classroom. Click on the tabs to the right to access the information you need.

http://www.homeworktips.about.com This webpage provides articles about a variety of topics related to achieving success in school.

Do you struggle with organization? Check out these webpages for ideas.

• http://www.visualspatial.org