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People's Democratic Republic of Algeria University Batna 2 Faculty of Letters and Foreign Languages Department of English Language and Literature Level: 1st Year LMD Course: TTU (Learning Skills) Teacher: Dr. N. Bentayeb

Yearly Course Content

Lesson 1: Learning styles ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 2

Lesson 2: Listening skills ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 4

Lesson 3: Reading skills -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 6

Lesson 4: Improve your note taking ----------------------------------------------------------------- 8

Lesson 5: Improve your memory -------------------------------------------------------------------- 10

Lesson 6: Habits of highly effective students ------------------------------------------------------ 13

Lesson 7: Time management skills ------------------------------------------------------------------ 15

Lesson 8: Test taking ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 18

Lesson 9: Vocabulary Building ---------------------------------------------------------------------- 21

Lesson 10: Effective essay writing ------------------------------------------------------------------- 23

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Lesson 1: Learning styles

Learners have different learning preferences and styles that benefit them. Some may find

they even have a dominant learning style. Others prefer different learning styles in different

circumstances. There is no right or wrong answer to which learning style is best for you.

However, by discovering and better understanding your own learning styles, you can employ

techniques that will improve the rate and quality of your learning.

There are seven key learning styles. These include:

• Visual (spatial): learning through imagery and spatial understanding.

• Aural (auditory): learning through listening, sound, and music.

• Verbal (linguistic): learning through speech and writing.

• Physical (kinesthetic): learning through hands-on, tactile interaction.

• Logical (mathematical): learning through logic, reasoning and systems.

• Social (interpersonal): preference for learning in groups or working with other people.

• Solitary (intrapersonal): preference for learning alone via self-study.

Below, we’ll explore each of these learning styles in more depth.

1- Visual Learning Style

If you prefer lessons that employ imagery to teach, chances you're a visual learner, many

people are. Visual learners retain information better when it's presented in pictures, videos,

graphs, and books. These learners benefit when information is presented on an overhead

projector or white board, or on a piece of paper. Visual learners often make sure their notes are

very detailed and spend extra time reviewing information from textbooks. Visual learners also

frequently draw pictures or develop diagrams when trying to comprehend a subject or memorize

rote information.

2 - Aural Learning Style

Aural (auditory) learners retain information better when it's presented in lecture format,

via speeches, audio recordings, and other forms of verbal communication. While a visual learner

would prefer to read a book or watch a video, auditory learners would prefer to attend a lecture

or listen to a book on tape. Aural learners are also big on sound and music. They can typically

sing, are musically inclined, play an instrument, and can identify different sounds.

3 - Verbal Learning Style

Verbal learning involves both writing and speaking. People who are verbal learners

usually find it easy to express themselves, both verbally and in writing. They often love to read

and write, enjoy rhymes, tongue twisters, and limericks. They also have a well-developed

vocabulary, like to find the meaning of words, and are able to assimilate new words into their

vocabulary with relative ease.

4 - Physical Learning Style

Physical learners also referred to as kinesthetic or tactile learners retain information best

through hands-on interaction and participation – they need to experience things. For example, a

physical learner in an automotive repair class would learn better working directly on cars than

sitting through a lecture or reading a book about cars. Physical learners excel in classes where

they're assigned to study in labs.

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5 - Logical Learning Style

Individuals who excel at math and possess strong logical reasoning skills are usually

logical learners. They notice patterns quickly and have a keen ability to link information that

would seem non-related by others. Logical learners retain details better by drawing connections

after organizing an assortment of information.

6 - Social Learning Style

Social learners usually have excellent written and verbal communication skills. These

individuals are at ease speaking with others and are adept at comprehending other people's

perspectives. For this reason, people frequently seek counsel from social learners. Social

learners learn best working with groups and take opportunities to meet individually with

teachers. If you like bouncing your ideas off others, prefer working through issues as a group,

and thoroughly enjoy working with others, there's a good chance you're a social learner.

7 - Solitary Learning Style

Solitary learners usually prefer working by themselves in private settings. They do not

rely on others for help when solving a problem or studying. Solitary learners frequently analyze

their learning preferences and methods. Since solitary learners prefer to work alone, it is possible

for them to waste time on a difficult problem before seeking assistance. However, solitary

learning can be very effective learning style for students.

To get the most out of your time studying, it is very helpful to identify your personal

learning preferences and styles.

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Lesson 2: Listening skills

Attentive listeners are usually good learners. Unfortunately, many students have poor

listening skills, which can be very problematic because students spend considerable time in

classrooms listening to lectures during college. Many students believe they are good listeners.

Unfortunately, they don't fully appreciate the difference between hearing and listening.

Attentive listeners not only hear, they effectively process the information presented to them.

The following tips and strategies will help you be a more attentive listener:

Listen for meaning

Listening for meaning is a form of active listening. Active and attentive listeners not only

pay attention to words, they also focus on the intent of each word–the message a word is

intended to communicate. To decipher messages, first determine the central idea being

communicated. Then pay close attention to anecdotes, explanations, and other details meant to

clarify meaning. While you work to improve listening skills, always pay close attention to the

central focus of what is being relayed.

While you're listening, and after the listen task has ended, check your comprehension.

Did what you learn make sense within the context of the topic or central idea being

communicated? Monitoring and checking comprehension make sure that your active listening

strategy is working.

Adjust your note taking style to the lecture

Ineffective listeners often attempt to jot down every detail from a lecture. They are under

the impression that a detailed outline equates to good notes. Students who utilize this strategy

often get discouraged when they review their notes only to find the breadth, detail and lack of

focus in their note-taking is confusing and leaves them unable to identify central themes and

important topics. Effective listeners adapt their note-taking to the teaching styles of their

teachers and lectures. They focus on central ideas and jot down details that expand on, or clarify,

the central concepts of a lecture.

Tackle difficult to understand material

It's not common for students tune out professors when they start discussing confusing or

complex topics. Even when it's possible to hear every word during a lecture, it can be very

difficult to process confusing or complicated concepts. Good listeners harness their mental

faculties to process what is being presented.

Concentrate and pay attention

People who struggle with listening often have a difficult time concentrating. Good listeners must

work to develop the ability to concentrate and ignore distractions. This requires the ability to

tune out personal worries, thoughts about family members and friends, and thoughts about

upcoming activities. Those who can hone the ability to concentrate can improve listening skills.

Be prepared

If you do not complete required reading or review notes from previous lectures prior to

class, it is very difficult to process information and attentively listen to lectures. This is why you

should never neglect to complete reading or other class assignments. Attending a lecture prepare

provides you the background knowledge required to be an effective listener–and an effective

student.

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Focus on what's important

One of the keys of effective listening is the ability to concentrate on central ideas and

main focuses. It is a mistake to only be concerned about facts and extemporaneous detail during

a lecture. In other words, effective listeners focus on the stories or ideas behind the facts. They

then are able to pick up on the supporting fact, details and evidence for the main concepts, ideals

and topics being discussed.

Choose to be interested

Many people tune out lectures because they're bored or disinterested. As a result, they

neglect to take notes on key concepts. Effective listeners become interested in the subject

material, so they can process the information and pay attention to classroom lectures.

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Lesson 3: Reading skills

Good reading comprehension comes only with practice. The basic aspects of reading,

such as word recognition, phonetics and fluency, can be mastered in just a few years. However,

throughout this process reading comprehension must be emphasized. Students may be able to

eloquently repeat the words that they see on a page all day, but without reading comprehension

skills, they're unable to fully understand the content, predict what will happen next, recognize

characters, gain insight or understanding, or relate what they're reading to their own life's

experience.

Whether to gain understanding develop a new skill, or for pure pleasure of reading, full

comprehension of what you read is necessary. Reading comprehension is also imperative for a

successful career and to excel academically.

Students frequently enter college without understanding how necessary good reading

comprehension skills are for academic success. Those who grasp the information they read in

textbooks earn better grades and experience far less stress than those who struggle to fully

understand what they're reading.

The following tips will enhance your ability to understand complicated concepts detailed

in textbooks and improve your reading comprehension.

Pre-reading survey

Before reading a text, complete a pre-reading survey for a brief summary of it. This will

give you an idea of what to expect in the text, so your reading will be more productive. The first

thing you should do in a pre-reading survey is read the introduction and review the table of

contents. Next, read section and chapter headings and text highlighted with bold print.

Throughout the process, be sure to focus on general information, not specifics.

The following is a bullet list of specific things you should look over and/or read when

performing a pre-reading survey of a textbook chapter.

• Chapter title and subtitles: Reading the chapter title and subtitles will provide you

overall topic of the chapter, and will provide your reading direction and focus.

• Focus questions at the beginning of each chapter: Many (not all) text books include

focus questions at beginning of each chapter. Reviewing these questions before reading

the text will help provide focus and indicate what to look for while reading the chapter.

• Chapter introductions and first paragraphs: The first paragraph of a chapter usually

provides an introduction to what the chapter will be about. Reading the first paragraph,

or introduction, will indicate what the material you're about to read is going to be about.

• Boldface subheadings: Many sections will begin with boldface subheadings. Reviewing

these subheadings before reading the chapter will provide you an idea of what major

topics to focus on as you read each chapter section.

• First sentence of each paragraph: The first sentence of a paragraph usually introduces

the central thought of the paragraph. It tells you what the paragraph is about. However,

in some texts, the first sentence is more of an attention getter. In this case, you'll need to

read the first and second sentence of each paragraph. This exercise alone will provide you

a very good idea of what the entire chapter is about and the major themes to look for as

you read.

• Visual aids: Look for any material that is presented in list form (numbered 1,2,3 or

lettered a,b,c, etc.). Bulleted list of information, pictures, diagrams, maps and pictures

can all help you identify the most important points of the chapter.

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• Last paragraph or chapter summary: The last paragraph or summary provides a

condensed explanation of what the chapter was about – including the most important take

aways.

• End-of-chapter material: Sometimes text books will provide study questions, or other

study materials, at the end of each chapter. If present, review these materials to get a

better idea of the important ideas and concepts to look for as you read.

Define your purpose

Many texts contain information and details that are unrelated to the most important

concepts and ideas. Identifying a purpose or objective when reading will keep you focused on

what's important. Defining your purpose ahead of time will also help you classify information

that is relevant to the main concepts, as well as that which is nonessential, so you can maximize

the time spent studying what's most important.

Read the text

Now that you've completed your pre-reading survey and identified a purpose, it's time to

actually sit down and read the text. If you have a difficult time concentrating when you read,

we recommend reading out loud. Many people comprehend material better if they read it out

loud – especially if you're an auditory learner.

Take notes or highlight important concepts

Writing something down is one of the most effective memory techniques. As you come

across key concepts, facts and ideas, use a highlighter, write them down on a piece of paper, or

make a note in the margin. This will help you remember what you've read and be able to quickly

access important sections for future reference.

Post-reading review

After reading a text, take time to identify what you've learned and important take aways.

This will help you internalize what you've learned and help you retain it for future reference.

Identifying what you've learned will also help you identify what you still do not fully

comprehend, so you can spend more time reviewing unclear concepts.

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Lesson 4: Improve your note taking

Effective note taking is one of the keys to succeeding in school. Students should devote

a considerable amount of time reviewing information discussed during classroom lectures. It is

very difficult to remember specific details–event major concepts–from classroom lectures

without good notes.

These note taking strategies are meant to get you take better notes:

• Make clear and accurate notes

Make sure to take legible and accurate notes since it is not uncommon to forget key details

discussed during class after it has ended. Frequently, students comprehend the teacher's

lecture and think they'll remember everything, so they neglect to jot down specific details

only to find later that they can't recall what it was they needed to remember. Students

who keep accurate notes can review them later to review key points, recall necessary

detail, solidify knowledge and study up on concepts they didn't fully comprehend during

the lecture. Additionally, since teachers frequently cover many topics during the course

of their lectures, effective notes enable students to concentrate on specific topics that are

most relevant.

• Come to class prepared

Students properly prepared for classes usually take better notes than those who come

unprepared. Proper preparation includes completing assigned reading prior to class and

reviewing notes from previous lectures. Students who review their notes from previous

lectures (1) will have a better context for learning new topics presented in the next lecture

and (2) can ask questions about confusing concepts they didn't quite understand from the

previous lecture.

• Compare your notes

To ensure your notes are as accurate and detailed as possible; compare them with the

notes of other students after class is over. This is useful because your colleagues will

frequently write down lecture details that you forgot or missed. This strategy will make

classroom notes more thorough and precise.

• Minimize distractions

Effective note takers avoid classroom distractions. This can include sitting in spots with

fewer distractions and not signing up for classes with friends that you might want to talk

with during lectures. Some students will even sit in spots where it is difficult to constantly

glance at the clock.

• Organize your notes

Notes organized by date, class, and subject make it easier to locate specific lecture details.

It is also a good idea to keep information from different dates and classes separated or to

begin each class with a new piece of paper.

• Use abbreviations and symbols

Since teachers usually cover a lot of information during each lecture, it can be hard to

write down everything important they say. This is why we recommend using symbols

and that you abbreviate long words and use short phrases in your notes when possible.

Many students use the following symbols and abbreviations while taking notes: & (and),

w/o (without), eg (for example), ie (that is). When utilizing abbreviations, create a key of

your most commonly used abbreviations, so you will not forget what they are.

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• Write clearly

The most copious notes will be of no benefit if you can't read them. This is why it is

important to use good penmanship when taking notes. It is also recommended that you

leave space in margins and near key concepts in your notepad, so you can add important

details relating to previous lecture topics that are addressed during future lectures.

• Review your notes

In order to retain information discussed during lectures, it is best to review notes

immediately after class. This will help you better understand the lecture, your notes, and

it will enable you to focus on what you just learned for long-term retention. You should

review your notes a second time just before your next lecture. This will help refresh in

your mind important topics and concepts, and prepare you for the next lecture. You

should continue to review your notes on a regular basis between your lectures and your

exams.

• Write down questions

No matter how intelligent a student is, from time to time they're bound get confused and

end up having questions unanswered by the lecture. For this reason, it is a good idea to

write down questions to ask after class, or during subsequent lectures. You can also

answer your own questions through a web search, a tutor, other student or by using

reference books–but only if you wrote down your questions in enough detail during the

lecture.

If you want to increase the effectiveness of your studying and performance on exams, it's

imperative to learn how to take good notes. Effective note taking is a key element of the formula

for success.

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Lesson 5: Improve your memory

"I'm just not good at taking tests."

"There is too much information for me to remember."

"Sometimes I just get overwhelmed and my mind goes blank."

These are phrases all too common among students when they struggle to remember

information. But the fact is, we all struggle to remember information and forget important

things. Retaining information is closely linked to academic success since exams are designed to

test what you've retained from classroom lectures and personal study. But being able to

remember what you've studied is just as critical when you enter the workforce after college.

Bet you've noticed how some things are easier for you to remember than other things. For

example, you may find it easy to remember how to play a complex video game but struggle to

remember multiplication tables. This describes you? Then join the club. It describes just about

everyone. What's important is that there are memory strategies that will help you remember

what you really need to remember, when you need to remember it. The strategies we'll introduce

to you below will teach you how to memorize and recall important information. These strategies

have worked for students everywhere, and they'll work for you too.

The following proven strategies will help you improve memory retention and ability to

recall important information:

• Make the information meaningful

Students often struggle to retain important information because it is unclear or confusing.

It's much more difficult to remember concepts when they're not completely understood.

In order to remember new information presented to you, in your mind, summarize the

information you've just learned in your own words. If you are unable to do this, it is a

strong sign that you do not fully comprehend the concept you're attempting to learn–and

consequently will have difficulty recalling it for future use.

• Organize the information

Organizing information into logical categories is one of the most effective ways of

improving recall and memory. For example, if you are trying to memorize vocabulary for

a foreign language class, classify words together that have similar meanings or that fall

under similar categories. This will enable you to associate words with certain categories

that provide context and meaning. Organized information is much, much easier to retain

than random information. Another good example of the power of organization as it relates

to memory is Human Anatomy. It can be very difficult to memorize the thousands of parts

that make up the human body. So how do students do it? Simple. They organize the parts

into systems. Once the parts of the body have been organized in to systems, based on

function or location, memorizing all the parts of the body becomes very achievable.

"Chunking" is another organization strategy for memorizing information. In fact, you

probably already use chunking memory strategies already and don't even realize it. When

you memorize a person's phone number, the combination to a lock, or your social security

number you use chunking. It's far easier to remember long number when you "chunk"

them into small groups of three or four numbers. Why? Because most people can only

remember about three or four bits of information at once. So how can you use chunking

to improve your memory? Chunk history by events or periods of time when events

occurred. Chunk foreign language vocabulary into functional groups like items in a

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house, car parts, or body parts. Chunk English vocabulary into parts of speech. When you

chunk, you simply group information into small groups of three to five times at a time.

• Visualization to improve memory

It's easier to remember a picture rather than details from a book or a lecture. Visualization

is one strategy that can be used to remember information that's been read in a text book

or spoken during a lecture. This strategy is especially useful when studying abstract or

confusing subjects. To apply this strategy, create images in your mind that relate to, or

have similarities to, the abstract concept. Visualizing information read or relayed to you

will imprint it in your mind, increasing the likelihood you'll remember it.

Visualization is particularly effective for memorizing systems, cycles and processes. For

example, let's say for upcoming science test you'll be required to memorize the water

cycle. So, let's get started. Visualize in your mind a cloud floating high in the sky. Picture

the cloud getting bigger and bigger and until it bursts. Now watch as rain pours from the

cloud and hits the ground. See the rain form into small streams, then larger rivers as it

flows toward lakes and eventually to the ocean. Visualize the sun shining down on the

ocean and evaporating the water and form into clouds which the wind then pushes

inland... Anyway, you get the idea, right? Visualization allows you to create a vivid,

meaningful and memorable story that allows you to recall information. You can also use

maps, charts, graphs, or pictures to help you visualize and remember important material.

• Active Studying

In order to remember or learn a concept, you must practice active studying. If you are

passive in your study habits, it will be very difficult to remember what you read or hear

during a lecture. One way to be an active studier is to teach the information you are

studying to classmates in a study group. You can also critically analyze material you're

studying by contrasting it with correlating details or coming up with questions about what

you've learned, or finding ways to apply what you've learned. By implementing active

study strategies into your personal study, you'll enhance your ability to retain confusing

or complicated concepts.

• Association

Association involves associating, or "connecting", a word or event with a place, feeling,

person, situation, or thing. Association is a very powerful memory strategy that allows

the brain to connect something it's already familiar with to something new that it's not

familiar with. By connecting the unfamiliar to the familiar, the brain more easily gets to

learn and remember the unfamiliar. Association is very effective for learning and

remembering vocabulary words. When you are given a new vocabulary word to

memorize, write it down, and then the definition next to it. Now write a person, place,

thing, event or movie that you're familiar with next to the word, or combine them in a

sentence to create a strong association. For example, "My uncle is an ardent democrat".

(Ardent meaning intensely devoted.)

• Frequent Reviewing

All students cram for tests at one time or another. Although many people cram right

before tests, it is not an effective long-term learning or memorization strategy. It is very

difficult to retain information long-term from one or two cramming sessions. The key to

memory retention is to frequently review notes and other study materials weeks or days

before tests. If possible, review notes immediately following lectures and jot down or

highlight information that will probably show up on a test. You should also adapt this

strategy after completing textbook reading assignments by reviewing information you

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highlight and chapter headings. Through repetitive review and study, you will eventually

begin to retain the information being learned.

• Storytelling

By integrating data, information and material into a vivid story that you can tell, you'll be

able to memorize and recall information in any subject. When developing a story for the

purpose of enhancing your memory of information, focus on the key learning points and

organize them (within the story) in a logical sequence. Why is storytelling such a

powerful memorization strategy? Because each event in the story triggers your memory

of the next event, so your ability to memorize information is as limitless as your ability

to create, remember and tell a story.

• Talking

Believe it or not, talking is a very powerful–and underutilized–strategy for improving

memory. How does it work? Just talk! Talk about what you've learned. Talk about the

information you need to remember. Sit down with your Mom, Dad, brother, sister or

friend and tell them what you've learned. Struggling to memorize the Krebs cycle for your

upcoming Biology test? Then sit down with someone and describe in detail how the Krebs

cycle works. Want to learn history? Then discuss debate and argue history with someone

else. Want to improve your Spanish? Then talk Spanish with someone who will listen–or

find a fluent Spanish speaker who will listen to you.

• Mnemonic devices

Many people use mnemonic devices to remember specific details from lectures and

reading. Mnemonic devices work by relating facts with short phrases, words that rhyme,

or anything else an individual is familiar with. For example, if an important definition

that will appear on a test rhymed with the last name of your favorite movie star, you could

use this mnemonic device to remember the word.

Another powerful mnemonic device for improving ability to remember important

information and details is the use of acronyms. An acronym is a word composed of the

first letters of a list of words. How does it work? Easy. You take the list of words that you

want to memorize and put them in an order so that the first letters of each word spell a

real or made-up word that is easy to remember. An example of a simple acronym is

MADD–Mothers against Drunk Driving.

One of the all-time most powerful mnemonic devices is music. Want to memorize

something and never forget it? Then put it to music, or your favorite song. Want to

memorize all the states in the nation? Put them to your favorite song. Want to learn all

the countries in the world and never forget them? Put them to your favorite song. Again,

if you can create a catchy song, with a tune you're already familiar with, using data or

information, you can memorize and remember anything? 30 years later I still know all

the cities in the state of Utah by heart after my 2nd grade teacher changed the lyrics of

"One little, two little, three little Indians" to "Beaver, Box Elder, Cache and Carbon..."

Believe me, it works!

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Lesson 6: Habits of highly effective students

The key to becoming an effective student is learning how to study smarter, not harder.

This becomes more and more evident as you advance in your education. An hour or two of

studying a day is usually sufficient to make it through high school with satisfactory grades, but

when college arrives, there aren't enough hours in the day to get all your studying in if you don't

know how to study smarter.

While some students are able to breeze through school with minimal effort, this is the

exception. The vast majority of successful students achieve their success by developing and

applying effective study habits.

The following are the top 10 study habits employed by highly successful students. So, if

you want to become a successful student, don't get discouraged, don't give up, just work to

develop each of the study habits below and you'll see your grades go up, your knowledge

increase, and your ability to learn and assimilate information improve.

1. Don't attempt to cram all your studying into one session.

Ever find yourself up late at night expending more energy trying to keep your eyelids

open than you are studying? If so, it's time for a change. Successful students typically space

their work out over shorter periods of time and rarely try to cram all of their studying into just

one or two sessions. If you want to become a successful student then you need to learn to be

consistent in your studies and to have regular, yet shorter, study periods.

2. Plan when you're going to study.

Successful students schedule specific times throughout the week when they are going to

study and then they stick with their schedule. Students who study sporadically and whimsically

typically do not perform as well as students who have a set study schedule. Even if you're all

caught up with your studies, creating a weekly routine, where you set aside a period of time a

few days a week, to review your courses will ensure you develop habits that will enable you to

succeed in your education long term.

3. Study at the same time.

Not only is it important that you plan when you're going to study, it's important you create

a consistent, daily study routine. When you study at the same time each day and each week,

your studying will become a regular part of your life. You'll be mentally and emotionally more

prepared for each study session and each study session will become more productive. If you

have to change your schedule from time to time due to unexpected events, that's okay, but get

back on your routine as soon as the event has passed.

4. Each study time should have a specific goal.

Simply studying without direction is not effective. You need to know exactly what you

need to accomplish during each study session. Before you start studying, set a study session

goal that supports your overall academic goal (i.e. memorize 30 vocabulary words in order to

ace the vocabulary section on an upcoming Spanish test.)

5. Never procrastinate your planned study session.

It's very easy, and common, to put off your study session because of lack of interest in

the subject, because you have other things you need to get done, or just because the

assignment is hard. Successful students DO NOT procrastinate studying. If you procrastinate

your study session, your studying will become much less effective and you may not get

everything accomplished that you need to. Procrastination also leads to rushing, and rushing is

the number one cause of errors.

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6. Start with the most difficult subject first.

As your most difficult assignment or subject will require the most effort and mental

energy, you should start with it first. Once you’ve completed the most difficult work, it will be

much easier to complete the rest of your work. Believe it or not, starting with the most difficult

subject will greatly improve the effectiveness of your study sessions, and your academic

performance.

7. Always review your notes before starting an assignment.

Obviously, before you can review your notes you must first have notes to review. Always

make sure to take good notes in class. Before you start each study session, and before you start

a particular assignment, review your notes thoroughly to make sure you know how to complete

the assignment correctly. Reviewing your notes before each study session will help you

remember important subject matter learned during the day, and make sure studying targeted and

effective.

8. Make sure you’re not distracted while you’re studying.

Everyone gets distracted by something. Maybe it’s the TV or your family. Or maybe it’s

too quiet. Some people actually study better with a little background noise. When you’re

distracted while you’re studying you (1) lose your train of thought and (2) you’re unable to

focus – both of which will lead to very ineffective studying. Before you start studying, find a

place where you won’t be disturbed or distracted.

9. Use study groups effectively.

Ever heard the phrase “two heads are better than one”? Well this can be especially true

when it comes to studying. Working in groups enables you to (1) get help from others when

you’re struggling to understand a concept, (2) complete assignments more quickly, and (3) teach

others whereby helping both the other students and yourself to internalize the subject matter.

However, study groups can become very ineffective if they’re not structured and if groups

members come unprepared. Effective students use study groups effectively.

10. Review your notes, schoolwork and other class materials over the weekend.

Successful students review what they’ve learned during the week over the weekend.

This way they’re well prepared to continue learning new concepts that build upon previous

coursework and knowledge acquired the previous week.

We're confident that if you'll develop the habits outlined above, you'll see a major

improvement in your academic success.

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Lesson 7: Time management skills

Most students start out each new semester of school with high expectations. They

envision themselves being successful in their studies and school work but they fail to put

together a realistic plan, or establish a routine, that will enable them to achieve academic

success. There are only so many hours in a day, days in a week, and weeks in a term. And if

you don't pay attention, the end of the semester will arrive before you know it – catching you

by surprise. To achieve academic success, you must carefully manage your study time on a

daily, weekly, and semester basis.

The following is a time management strategy for doing exactly that.

Step 1. Prepare a term calendar

At the start of each new term, before you get heavily involved in your studies or other activities,

prepare a calendar that covers the entire term. Your term calendar can look like a regular

monthly calendar, or it can employ a different format. Whichever format you choose, your term

calendar should outline the following:

• Assignments with their due dates

• Tests with their dates

• All school activities

• All out-of-school and extra-curricular activities

Step 2. Prepare a weekly schedule

Unlike your term calendar, which is planned out in it entirety at the beginning of each term,

your weekly schedule is prepared at beginning of each new week. Each Sunday sit down and

prepare your weekly schedule. Although you'll prepare your weekly schedule each Sunday, you

should update your schedule as the week progresses and new items arise. To prepare your

weekly schedule do the following:

• Write down on your calendar each class you have for each day of the week

• Take a look at your term calendar and write down on your weekly calendar items that

need to be completed, or are occurring that week (i.e. assignments, tests, events, etc.)

• Go back and review all your class notes and your schedule from the prior week to see if

there is anything you need to add to this week schedule that is carrying over.

• Add to your weekly schedule any out-of-school and extra-curricular activities you'll be

participating in during the upcoming week.

• Note down the day and time for each assignment, study session, work group or project

you'll be completing during the week. These may be occurring in the evening, after

school, or during school.

Step 3. Prepare a daily schedule

You'd think a term calendar and weekly schedule would be sufficient to effectively manage your

time, but they aren't. You also need to prepare a daily schedule. Each evening, prepare a daily

schedule for the next school day. Place a check mark next to each item to be completed as it is

completed. To prepare your daily schedule do the following:

• Jot down everything from your weekly schedule that you need to do for the coming day.

• Write down everything from your previous daily schedule that wasn't completed and

needs to be completed the next day.

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• Check your daily schedule for the current day to see if there are any other school activities

that you need to include for the following day.

• Include any other activities from your weekly schedule that need to be included in your

next day's schedule

You'll notice that one of the keys to effectively managing your study time is to start with

the big picture and then work down to the detail. Your term calendar provides direction and

instruction for accomplishing the big picture. Your weekly and daily schedules provide the

detail required to accomplishing everything in your term calendar, whereby enabling you to

accomplish your term goals one day and week at a time.

Other time managements skills

Once you've developed a term calendar, weekly schedule, and daily schedule, there are

several other strategies that will help you accomplish more and make the most effective use of

your time. These include:

• Prioritize your assignments: As you progress through your education, you'll find the

topics of study become more complex, the work load more demanding and the material

more challenging. By the time you arrive at college, there just isn't enough time in the

day to get everything done. Start the habit of beginning your studying with the most

difficult, or important, subject or task first. Tackling the hardest subjects first, while

you're still fresh and energized, will make the remainder of your studies much easier.

• Find a dedicated study space: Some students will spend the first 20 minutes of their

study time just looking for somewhere to study. A key to ongoing time management is to

find a dedicated study space free from distractions where you can concentrate. If you

want to change up your study space, that's fine, just make sure to find a study space that

works and stick with it.

• Create blocks of study time: Not only should you have a dedicated study space, you

should have dedicated study time–blocks of time where you focus on your studies. Blocks

around 40 to 50 minutes are ideal, but may be longer or shorter based on the subject and

your ability to focus. It's okay to take study breaks during your blocks for a snack, or just

to get up and walk around, but make sure to return to your studies.

• Schedule activities for after your school work: One of the most difficult, yet important,

element of effective time management is to put your school work first. It's easy to say

you'll get your school work done later, or just before you go to bed. It's just as easy to say

you'll do it tomorrow when bedtime arrives and you no longer have the disposition or

energy to get it done. Complete your school work as soon as possible. Putting off less

important activities until after you complete your school work will allow you stay on

track and focus on your "fun" activities without the pressure looming school work.

• Use helpful resources: The old adage, if at first you don't succeed, try, try, try again,

while useful for many of life's situations, isn't always the best philosophy when you're

strapped for time and can't figure out your chemistry homework. As you progress through

middle school, high school and then into college, it's wise to rely on the help, expertise

and knowledge of others to assist you with the learning process. Smart friends, tutors,

study groups, and even the Internet, are useful resources for tackling complex subjects

and making the most effective use of your time.

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• Join a study group: Study groups offer several advantages to students, least of which is

the ability to cover more material faster. Working in a study group makes it possible to

research and learn about various topics quickly. Each member is assigned a topic and then

provides a summary to the group.

• Get exercise. Eat right. Get plenty of sleep: Yeah, you've heard this before, but let us

say it again. Get exercise, eat right and get plenty of sleep. If you're not at your peak, you

won't be able to focus or concentrate, nor will you have the energy or stamina to get your

studies completed efficiently. Going to bed an hour early, can make all the difference the

next day in your ability to make the best use of your time.

• Be flexible: You can't plan for everything. Unforeseen obstacles are bound to pop up, so

plan accordingly and be flexible. Just want sure to get back on track as soon as possible

and maintain your monthly, weekly and daily schedule.

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Lesson 8: Test taking

a) Test anxiety

Experiencing test anxiety is natural. In fact, most people – even those who have prepared

extensively – experience some level of anxiety before and during tests. While a certain level of

test anxiety is beneficial (as it motivates students to adequately prepare), too much can be

detrimental if it prevents them from studying, preparing properly, or concentrating during a test.

The following strategies can help you control extreme test taking anxiety:

• Develop good study habits: One of the most effective ways to handle test taking anxiety

is through proper preparation. Besides preparing you for the questions on a test, studying

will also build your confidence. And as your confidence increases, your test anxiety will

decrease.

• Be prepared: If you're completely prepared for a test to the point of being familiar with

any question that could be asked, anxiety will dramatically decrease. There is little reason

to experience anxiety for a test you've prepared for. If you're studying a subject or concept

that is difficult for you to understand, start early in the semester working with your teacher

or a tutor to get the help you need.

• Don't cram: Cramming for an exam the night before is a major cause of test anxiety.

Students who take their time to regularly study for an exam throughout the term will

experience less anxiety than those who decide to study a day or even hours prior to one.

If you're studying a difficult subject (i.e. chemistry, biology, math, etc.) it's imperative

that you start studying early on in the semester, as you're likely to come across concepts,

topics, and subjects that require outside help. Cramming can leave you not only pressed

for time, but unable to get the help you in time.

• Get adequate exercise: Exercise relieves stress and increases mental function. It can also

increase energy. If you take time to take care of your body, you'll experience far less

anxiety all around.

• Get plenty of sleep: Not only is receiving adequate sleep necessary for good health, it's

also an effective way to decrease anxiety. This is why it's recommended to get plenty of

sleep the night prior to a test. We recommend that you get plenty of sleep the entire week

before a test. If you do not get enough sleep prior to a test, you will be fatigued, less able

to concentrate, unable to remember everything, and more anxious.

• Get plenty to eat: Never take a test on a hungry stomach. Not only do you need the

nutrients necessary for proper brain function and physical energy, taking a test on an

empty, grumbling, stomach will make it more difficult for you to concentrate on the test.

Some students neglect to eat prior to a test because they don't want to take time away

from last minute studying. You don't have to eat a four-course meal before every test, but

at least grab an apple or some other healthy snack.

• Stay positive: Do not allow yourself to get overly pessimistic. Remain positive and

concentrate on doing well on the test. If you dwell on negative thoughts, it will increase

your anxiety and make it more difficult to perform. If you think you're going to perform

poorly on a test, chances are you will. If you're confident in your ability, you're much

likely to be less anxious and perform better.

• Stay relaxed: Take a few minutes to relax before taking a test. If you're struggling to

relax, take deep breaths. Take a moment and clear your head. Focus on something

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completely unrelated to the test, or even school. Think about something fun you're

planning later during the week, or maybe a fun trip you'll be taking. Once you're calm, go

in and ace the test.

• Focus on the learning experience: Do not be too hard on yourself if you do not perform

up to your expectations on a test. Instead, learn from the experience, so you can make the

necessary changes for the future. Nothing is accomplished by getting all stressed out over

something that has already passed.

• Ask for help: If all else fails, ask for help. Sever test anxiety can be debilitating for

students. If your mind goes completely blank every time you sit down to take a test, or

you feel like you're going to pass out or throw up, you probably need to speak with your

teacher, or a guidance counselor. Don't be scared or ashamed to seek assistance. Test

anxiety can be a real psychological condition that can cause otherwise smart, hardworking

students to perform poorly academically. Don't let that be you.

b) Test preparation

The following strategies have helped many people improve test scores and prepare more

effectively for tests:

• It is best to begin preparing long before the day of a test. Make it a habit to complete

reading assignments and frequently review lecture notes.

• Make time for studying. Since work and other activities can occupy your time, be sure to

set time aside to adequately prepare for tests.

• Watch for clues the teacher might provide about possible test questions. It is also

advisable to participate at test review sessions and ask questions about unclear concepts.

Never be ashamed to ask questions.

• Ask your teacher about what subjects or topics you will be tested on during the exam.

• Show up to class early on test day, in case the teacher provides any additional tips or

instruction.

• A couple days prior to the test, review lecture notes, reading assignments, and other

materials that will prepare you for it.

• Getting plenty of rest and exercising regularly will enhance your ability to perform well

on a test. Eat a nutritious meal prior to taking a test to be alert and focused.

• It is unwise to stay up all night studying prior to a test. Get plenty of sleep the night before

a test. Although spending extra time preparing seems like it will improve your score, you

never want to show up to a test tired.

• Prepare an outline of the main topics and concepts that will be covered during an exam,

then use this sheet to study. This will help you memorize key facts and other information

you will be tested on.

• Arrive to class at least 5 minutes before the test is administered.

• Be sure to use the bathroom before the test begins. If you must visit the restroom during

the test, it can waste time, and in many cases, students are not permitted to leave a room

once a test begins. It can also be extremely uncomfortable and distract your concentration.

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c) Test taking

You must adapt test-taking strategies to the specific type of test you're taking. The

following strategies meant as general test taking guidelines will help you for taking tests.

1. Be prepared.

• Spend as many hours as necessary to understand the material that will be covered on the

test well enough to achieve a high score.

• Since teachers often slightly modify information on tests to determine if students

understand the information, spend time on honing test-taking skills.

2. Always arrive early and take a moment to relax.

• You'll increase your confidence if you take time to relax.

• You'll be able to narrow your focus for the upcoming test.

3. Listen attentively to last minute instructions given by the instructor.

• It is not uncommon for teachers to alter test details at the last minute.

• If you miss test instructions, test taking anxiety will increase.

4. Read the test directions very carefully and watch for details.

• It is not uncommon to have two correct answers on a multiple-choice question.

• Frequently, test instructions will notify students that they only need to complete two

questions, but there will be 5 options.

5. Plan how you will use the allotted time.

• Take time to estimate how must time you'll have for each question.

• Pace yourself so you can complete the test in the allotted timeframe.

• Complete the questions you know first to save time.

6. Maintain a positive attitude.

• Do not lose confidence or waste time if you encounter confusing or difficult questions.

Answer questions you know first.

• If you have no clue about the correct answer, make an educated guess if it will not count

against your score.

• Disregard patterns. It is probably coincidence if a string of multiple-choice answers you

know are correct are "a."

7. Rely on your first impressions.

• The first answer that pops in your mind is probably correct.

• It can be counterproductive to review answers and make changes.

8. Plan to finish early and have time for review.

• Go back and answer difficult questions after answering easy ones.

• If you are required to complete an essay, review it for spelling and grammatical errors.

• Check to make sure you have completed the entire test. It is not uncommon for questions

to be listed on the opposite side of a page.

9. Consider every test a practice session - analyze your performance.

• It takes time and practice to develop effective test taking skills.

• To determine whether your test taking strategies are working, take time to evaluate your

performance after each test.

• Be sure to take note of where you're struggling. Are you struggling with essays or

multiple-choice questions?

• Arrange to meet with teachers to discuss low test scores to determine what you can do to

improve. This is highly recommended if you struggle with essay questions.

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Lesson 9: Vocabulary Building

Being able to effectively communicate, both verbally and in writing, is a very important

skill to develop. Effective communicators are highly sought after by organizations and

companies. People are often judged by their vocabulary, whether negative or positive.

Additionally, a strong vocabulary is the single best predictor of academic success in school. For

these reasons, and many others, it's important to take every opportunity to improve your

vocabulary.

There are several strategies and concepts educators, teachers, parents and students can

employ for building vocabulary. However, below we're going to discover just a few of the

proven strategies and concepts we believe are at the core of effective and life-long vocabulary

building – for learners of any age.

Read. read. read.

Independent reading is the key!

In our opinion, the biggest factor influencing vocabulary is the sheer volume of reading

performed. Studies show that regular independent reading, and reading a rich variety of texts,

provides the most positive impact on vocabulary. Students, who develop a habit of reading at a

young age, develop large vocabularies and have a greater ability to understand written and

verbal communication than students who don't read regularly. It's just a fact; people with

extensive vocabularies actually read a lot.

Developing an extensive vocabulary requires reading publications covering various

subjects and texts, including magazines, text books, novels, etc. We recommend spending at

least 20 minutes a night reading. One night read a novel. The next a magazine. And when you

read, sometimes read aloud. Reading aloud from time to time provides the added benefit of

hearing the words you're reading.

Instead of consulting a dictionary every time you encounter an unfamiliar word while

reading, try to determine word meaning by evaluating the context of the sentence and

surrounding words. Searching for clues in surrounding text will not only help you decipher word

meanings; it will cement in your memory what a word means and improve your recall for future

recognition and use.

Make it personal through association

Relating words to your life will make them easier to remember and use again. The best

way to do this is to associate newly learned words with people you know, places you're familiar

with, or important events in your life. Many people rhyme new words they learn with words

they already know to improve retention. This is called "association". Associating new

vocabulary with something already stored in your brain makes it much easier for your brain to

recall the new word in future.

Make it fun

Building vocabulary is a very important aspect of life-long learning, personal fulfillment

and academic advancement, but let's be honest, it's not always the most enjoyable activity –

especially for younger children. If you want to make building vocabulary effective, it needs to

be fun.

Utilizing word games is an effective strategy for increasing vocabulary. Since games are

engaging and fun, children will usually devote more time studying vocabulary when it involves

a game. Word games are effective for helping anyone build their vocabulary, but can be

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especially effective with adolescents or small children who get with reading and other

vocabulary building exercises.

Repetition

One of the best ways to increase vocabulary is through repetition. Throughout the day,

repeat a word you're trying to learn to embed it within your memory. You can also write down

a word multiple times on a piece of paper to improve your memory. Writing a word down

provides the added benefit of seeing the word again and again.

Another repetition strategy frequently used to improve vocabulary is to create a sentence

using a word you're trying to learn and then repeating the entire sentence several times.

Repetition of a word, within a context that communicates its meaning, is a powerful strategy for

enhancing vocabulary.

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Lesson 10: Effective essay writing

As you progress through school, you'll be required to write essays. And the farther along

in school you get, the more complex and demanding the essays will become. It's important that

you learn early on how to write effective essays that communicate clearly and accomplish

specific objectives.

An essay is a written composition where you express a specific idea and then support it

with facts, statements, analysis and explanations. The basic format for an essay is known as the

five-paragraph essay, but an essay may have as many paragraphs as needed. A five-paragraph

essay contains five paragraphs. However, the essay itself consists of three sections: an

introduction, a body and a conclusion.

Below we'll explore the basics of writing an essay.

1 - Select a Topic

When you first start writing essays in school, it's not uncommon to have a topic assigned

to you. However, as you progress in grade level, you'll increasingly be given the opportunity to

choose the topic of your essays. When selecting a topic for your essay, you'll want to make sure

your topic supports the type of paper you're expected to write. If you're expected to produce a

paper that is a general overview, then a general topic will suffice. However, if you're expected

to write a specific analysis, then your topic should be fairly specific.

For example, let’s assume the objective of your essay is to write an overview. Then the

topic "RUSSIA" would be suitable. However, if the objective or your essay is to write a specific

analysis, then "RUSSIA" would be far too general a topic. You'll need to narrow down your

topic to something like "Russian Politics: Past, Present and Future" or "Racial Diversity in the

Former USSR".

If you're expected to choose your own topic, then the first step is to define the purpose of

your essay. Is your purpose to persuade? To explain how to accomplish something? Or to

educate about a person, place, thing or idea? The topic you choose needs to support the purpose

of your essay.

The purpose of your essay is defined by the type of paper you're writing. There are three

basic types of essay papers:

• Analytical: An analytical essay paper breaks down an idea or issue into its key

components. It evaluates the issue or idea by presenting analysis of the breakdown and/or

components to the reader.

• Expository: Also known as explanatory essays, expository essays provide explanations

of something.

• Argumentative: These types of essays, also known as persuasive essays, make a specific

claim about a topic and then provide evidence and arguments to support the claim. The

claim set forth in argumentative (persuasive) essays may be an opinion, an evaluation, an

interpretation, cause-effect statement or a policy proposal. The purpose of argumentative

essays is to convince or persuade the reader that a claim is valid.

Once you have defined the purpose of your essay, it's time to brainstorm. Don't choose

just one topic right of the bat. Take some time to consider, contrast and weight your options.

Get out a piece of paper and make a list of all the different topics that fit the purpose of your

essay. Once they're all down on paper, start by eliminating those topics that are difficult or not

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as relevant as others topics. Also, get rid of those topics that are too challenging or that you're

just not that interested in. Pretty soon you will have whittled your list down to just a few topics

and then you can make a final choice.

2 - Organize Your Ideas Using a Diagram or Outline

Some students get scared to start writing. They want to make sure they have all their

thoughts organized in their head before they put anything down on paper. Creating a diagram

or outline allows you to put pen to paper and start organizing your ideas. Don't worry or agonize

over organization at this point, just create a moderately organized format for your information.

Whether you use a diagram or outline doesn't really matter. Some people prefer and work

better with the flowing structure of a diagram. Others like the rigid and logical structure of an

outline. Don't fret, once you get started, you can always change formats if the format you chose

isn't working out for you.

Diagram

The following are useful steps for developing a diagram to organize ideas for your essay.

• Get started by drawing a circle in the middle of a paper just big enough to write in.

• Inside your circle, write your essay topic.

• Now draw three or four lines out from your circle.

• At the end of each of lines, draw another circle just slightly smaller than the circle in the

middle of the page.

• In each smaller circle, write a main idea about your topic, or point you want to make. If

this is persuasive (argumentative) essay, then write down your arguments. If the object

of the essay is to explain a process (expository), then write down a step in each circle. If

your essay is intended to be informative or explain (analytical), write the major categories

into which information can be divided.

• Now draw three more lines out from each circle containing a main idea.

• At the end of each of these lines, draw another circle.

• Finally, in each of these circles write down facts or information that help support the main

idea.

Outline

The following are useful steps for developing an outline to organize ideas for your essay.

• Take a page of paper and write your topic at the top.

• Now, down the left side of the page, under the topic, write Roman numerals I, II, and III,

sequentially.

• Next to each Roman numeral, write the main points, or ideas, about your essay topic. If

this is persuasive essay, write your arguments. If this is an essay to inform, write the

major categories into which information will be divided. If the purpose of your essay is

to explain a process, write down each step of the process.

• Next, under each Roman numeral, write A, B, and C down the left-hand side of the page.

• Finally, next to each letter, under each Roman numeral, write the information and/or facts

that support the main point or idea.

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3 - Develop a Thesis Statement

Once you have an idea for the basic structure of your essay, and what information you're

going to present in your essay, it's time to develop your thesis statement. A thesis statement

states or outlines what you intend to prove in your essay. A good thesis statement should be

clear, concise, specific, and takes a position.

The word "thesis" just sounds intimidating to most students, but a thesis is actually quite

simple. A thesis statement (1) tells the reader what the essay is about and (2) what points you'll

be making. If you've already selected an essay topic, and developed an outline or diagram, you

now can decide what points you want to communicate through your essay.

A thesis statement has two key components. The first component is the topic, and the

second is the point(s) of the essay.

- The following is an example of an expository (explanatory) thesis statement:

The life of a child raised in Pena Blanca is characterized by little playing, a lot of hard work

and extreme poverty.

- An example of an analytical thesis statement:

An analysis of the loan application process for citizens of third world countries reveals one

major obstacle: applicants must already have money in order to qualify for a loan.

- An example of an argumentative (persuasive) thesis statement:

Instead of sending tax money overseas to buoy struggling governments and economies, U.S.

residents should be offered tax incentives for donating to companies that provide micro loans

directly to the citizens of third world countries.

Once you're done developing a thesis statement that supports the type of essay your

writing and the purpose of the essay, you're ready to get started on your introduction.

Introduction

The introduction is the first paragraph of the essay. It introduces the reader to the idea

that the essay will address. It is also intended to capture the reader's attention and interest. The

first sentence of the introduction paragraph should be as captivating and interesting as possible.

The sentences that follow should clarify your opening statement. Conclude the introduction

paragraph with your thesis statement.

Body

The body of your essay is where you explain, describe or argue the topic you've chosen.

Each of the main ideas you included in your outline or diagram will become of the body

paragraphs. If you wrote down four main ideas in your outline or diagram, then you'll have four

body paragraphs.

Each paragraph will address one main idea that supports the thesis statement. The first

paragraph of the body should put forth your strongest argument to support your thesis. Start the

paragraph out by stating the supporting idea. Then follow up with additional sentences that

contain supporting information, facts, evidence or examples – as shown in your diagram or

outline. The concluding sentence should sum up what you've discussed in the paragraph.

The second body paragraph will follow the same format as the first body paragraph. This

paragraph should put forth your second strongest argument supporting your thesis statement.

Likewise, the third and fourth body paragraphs like the first and second, will contain your third

and fourth strongest arguments supporting your thesis statement. Again, the last sentence of

both the third and fourth paragraphs should sum up what you've discussed in each paragraph

and indicate to the reader that the paragraph contains the final supporting argument.

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Conclusion

The final paragraph of the essay provides the conclusion. This paragraph should restate

your thesis statement using slightly different wording than employed in your introduction. The

paragraph should summarize the arguments presented in the body of the essay. The last sentence

in the conclusion paragraph should communicate what your essay has come to an end. Your

concluding paragraph should communicate to the reader that you're confident that you've proven

the idea as set forth in your thesis statement.

Having the ability to write effective essays will become increasingly important as you progress

through high school and into college. If you'll internalize the format presented above, you'll

develop the ability to write clear and compelling essays.