Taking notes      

Syndicated column from The Parent Institute

[DEC. 1, 2005]  Q: My son is having a hard time taking notes in class. He says the teacher goes too fast. Plus, his notes don't focus on the information that ends up on tests. How can I help him?

A: Most students need to learn to take good notes. So don't panic. Your son can become a better note-taker with practice!

First, make sure your son knows the basics of note-taking. Teachers and counselors often provide this information. The library also has books on note-taking. The main goal of note-taking is not to write down every word the teacher says -- but to capture the main points and facts.

Your son will need to work out his own "system" for taking notes. Here are some helpful tips:

• Read textbook chapters ahead of time. Already knowing some of what he will hear can help your son focus.

• Write down everything the teacher puts on the board.

• Underline or circle everything the teacher repeats or emphasizes.

• Write down key words and phrases, not complete sentences.

• Paraphrase -- or have him put what the teacher says into his own words. The more he thinks about what he hears, the better he'll understand it later when he reviews his notes.

• Use abbreviations, such as "p" for "page," "#" for "number" and "w" for "with."

• Use a simple form of speedwriting that leaves out most vowels. For example, "bk" for "book" or "gvt" for "government."

• Put a question mark by anything he doesn't understand, and ask the teacher about it later.

• Review notes every day after class. Add and rewrite information as needed.

It also helps to compare notes with those of another student. Your son might also ask the teacher for tips on taking good notes in class. Some teachers even give students a handout to use for note-taking during a lecture. Students can then write additional notes on these handouts while the teacher is lecturing.

[The Parent Institute]

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Copyright 2005, The Parent Institute.

"Ask the Learning Advisor -- Ideas for Raising Successful Children" is a free, syndicated column from the Parent Institute.