Make good use of your class time by
listening and taking notes. Because your instructor
will be giving explanations and examples that may
not be found in your textbook, as well as other
information about your course (test dates,
homework assignments, and so on), it is important
that you keep a written record of what was said in
class.
Listen Actively. Listening in class is different
from listening in social situations because it requires that you be
an activelistener. Since it is impossible to write down everything that is said in class, you
need to exercise your active listening skills to learn to write down what is important.Yo u
can spot important material by listening for cues from your instructor. For instance, pauses
in lectures or statements from your instructor such as “This is really important” or “This is
a question that shows up frequently on tests” are indications that you should be paying
special attention. Listen with a pencil (or highlighter) in hand, ready to record or highlight
(in your textbook) any examples, definitions, or concepts that your instructor discusses.
Take Notes You Can Use. Don’t worry about making your notes really neat. After
class you can rework them into a format that is more useful to you. However, you should
organize your notes as much as possible as you write them. Copy the examples your
instructor uses in class. Circle or star any key concepts or definitions that your instructor
mentions while explaining the example. Later, your homework problems will look a lot
like the examples given in class, so be sure to copy each of the steps in detail.
Listen with an Open Mind. Even if there are concepts presented that you feel you
already know, keep tuned in to the presentation of the material and look for a deeper
understanding of the material. If the material being presented is something that has been
difficult for you in the past, listen with an open mind; your new instructor may have a fresh
presentation that works for you.
Avoid Classroom Distractions. Some of the same things that can distract you from
your study time can distract you, and others, during class. Because of this, be sure to turn
off your cell phone during class. If you take notes on a laptop, log out of your email and
social networking sites during class. In addition to these distractions, avoid getting into
side conversations with other students. Even if you feel you were only distracted for a few
moments, you may have missed important verbal or body language cues about an
upcoming exam or hints that will aid in your understanding of a concept.Study Skills Workshop S-54 Listen and Take Notes
Now Try This
1.Before your next class, refer to your syllabus and read the section(s) that will be
covered. Make a list of the terms that you predict your instructor will think are most
important.
2.During your next class, bring your textbook and keep it open to the sections being
covered. If your instructor mentions a definition, concept, or example that is found in
your text, highlight it.
3.Find at least one classmate with whom you can review notes. Make an appointment to
compare your class notes as soon as possible after the class. Did you find differences in
your notes?
4.Go to http://www.cengage.com/math/tussy and read the Reworking Your Noteshandout.
Complete the action items given in this document.© iStockphoto.com/Jacob Wackerhausen