How did your child do on their midterm exams?
Whether they’re feeling great about their results or hoping to improve next time, this is the perfect opportunity to start fresh.
One area that can make a huge difference as we dive into the new quarter? Note-taking skills.
For many students, note-taking is a passive activity—scribbling down what the teacher says or copying slides word-for-word. However, if your child struggled to retain material during midterms, their current note-taking system might not be doing them any favors.
The good news?
A few small changes can transform the way they learn and study. This sets them up for long-term success.
Let’s talk about active note-taking: what it is, why it works, and how your student can use it to boost their grades this semester!
Why Traditional Note-Taking Methods Fall Short
If your child is like most students, chances are their notes probably follow a simple pattern: write down everything the teacher says or copy slides word-for-word.
Sound familiar?
While this approach might feel right, it’s actually one of the least effective ways to learn.
Here’s why: passive note-taking (copying without processing) doesn’t engage the brain. It’s like going through the motions without really thinking about the information.
Active note-taking, on the other hand, involves engaging with the material as they write. It encourages your child to process and organize information, making it easier to understand, remember, and review later.
- Lack of engagement: Passive note-taking doesn’t require much thought. You’re simply transcribing, not processing or understanding the material.
- Disorganization: Long blocks of text or scattered bullet points can make it hard to find key information later.
- Overwhelm: When it’s time to study, dense or unclear notes can feel overwhelming, leaving you unsure of where to start.
A Better Approach: Active Note-Taking with the Cornell Method
One of the most effective ways to take notes is the Cornell Method. This structured system encourages active engagement with the material and makes studying easier.
Here’s how it works: Instructions for Students
- Divide the Page
- Draw a vertical line about one-third of the way from the left edge of your paper.
- The left column is for cues or key questions, and the right column is for notes from class or your textbook.
- Take Notes During Class
- Write detailed notes in the right-hand column as you listen or read.
- Focus on main ideas, supporting details, and examples.
- Don’t just copy everything!
- Summarize Key Points
- At the bottom of the page, leave space for a brief summary of the material.
- This helps you review and condense what you’ve learned.
- Review and Reflect
- After class, add questions or keywords in the left-hand column. Then, use these to quiz yourself later.
- Spend a few minutes summarizing the key ideas in your own words.
Why it works: The Cornell Method keeps your notes organized, encourages critical thinking, and helps you actively engage with the material.
Our study skills tutors are well-versed in helping students get started with active note-taking strategies like Cornell Notes.
See how our personalized study skills tutoring might be exactly what you need to get started!
For Students: Do’s and Don’ts of Active Note-Taking
Do:
- Use color coding: Highlight or underline key terms to make important points stand out.
- Paraphrase: Write ideas in your own words to ensure you understand the material.
- Ask questions: Jot down anything you’re unsure about so you can follow up later.
- Review regularly: Schedule time each week to go over your notes and reinforce your understanding.
Don’t:
- Copy word-for-word: This leads to passive learning and doesn’t help you process the material.
- Cram everything onto one page: Leave space between ideas to make your notes easier to read.
- Skip the review step: Reviewing your notes shortly after class helps solidify what you’ve learned.
For Parents: How to Support Your Student’s Note-Taking System
Practical Strategies to Implement This Semester
Helping your child upgrade their note-taking system can be simple and rewarding. Here’s how you can work together to make it happen:
- Start Fresh
- Help them gather new supplies: notebooks, pens, or a digital note-taking app.
- Fresh tools can spark motivation and excitement.
- Choose the Right Method
- Introduce the Cornell Method for a structured approach to notes.
- You can even watch YouTube videos to get a better understanding of how it works!
- For visual learners, try mind mapping to connect ideas creatively.
- Start Small
- Test the new system in one subject first.
- Gradual implementation prevents overwhelm.
- Review and Refine
- Set aside 15-20 minutes each weekend for note review.
- You can make this fun by having your child share what they’ve learned and retained with you!
- Clarify confusing sections and organize for the week ahead.
- Ask for Feedback
- Encourage them to share notes with you, a teacher, or a tutor.
- Small tweaks from an outside perspective can improve effectiveness.
- *Important: How you encourage your child to share is crucial. You want to avoid sounding like you’re micro-managing and looking over their shoulder. Let them know that teaching or telling someone else about a topic is a great way to learn and retain information.
- Celebrate Wins
- Acknowledge their progress, like completing organized notes for a week.
- Positive reinforcement keeps them motivated!
Learning anything new is hard. Make it easier for your child by supporting them through this process.
If you need more support to help your child build study skills, our personalized study skills tutoring might be exactly what you’re looking for.
For Students: Try Active-Note Taking This Quarter
First week:
- Choose your note-taking method and set up your materials.
- Practice in all your classes and focus on consistency.
Second week:
- Review your notes and adjust your technique as needed.
- Add questions or cues to your notes to make them more interactive.
Third week:
- Start using your notes to quiz yourself on key topics.
- Share your progress with a teacher or tutor for additional tips.
Ongoing:
- Keep refining your process!
- The more you practice active note-taking, the more natural it will become.
Final Thoughts
Helping your child upgrade their note-taking skills isn’t just about getting better grades (although that’s definitely a perk). It’s about teaching them how to learn effectively—a skill that will serve them long after this quarter ends.
As we step into a new semester, let’s focus on building stronger habits and systems that empower your child to succeed. Better notes today mean better understanding tomorrow, and with your support, they’ll feel more confident heading into their next big test.
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