One strategy to help you master the content of your readings is the SQ3R. To use this tool, you follow these steps:
In step 1, you should survey the reading assignment. You want to get an overall view of the reading: how it's organized. Look for an outline (if available), lesson or unit summary or introduction, or other similar areas.
When you question (step 2), you simply develop some questions about the readings. These questions should be formulated based on your survey (hint: these could be headings in your Cornell notes pages).
Step 3 is where you read in depth. Try to find the answers to the questions you formed in step 2. Take notes!
Reciting is step 4, and it simply means to restate those important ideas. Many people recommend that you actually do this aloud!
When you get to the 3rd "R", Review, in step 5, this isn't simply a quick glance over the material! You should return in a day or so and see how much you can still recite, or how well you can actually respond to the questions you developed in step 2.
Here is one very important hint: several researchers have found that the more quality time you spend in step 2 and 4, the more likely you will master the material!
You will often need to read a section more than once to master the content. After you have read and reviewed your notes, you should attempt to write a summary of the content. If you can write the information presented in your own words without looking at the material, then you probably have mastered the information. If you can't, then you probably want to re-read the material and review your notes.
Some of the information presented is in a "How-To" format, and they are designed to be used while you are working on the associated project. Even so, you still need to summarize the material to demonstrate your understanding.
For all classes, Mr. Walrath's reading summary policy applies. Visit this link to review it.
We will use our introductory lesson(s) as in-class practice for taking notes. Your notes will be turned in during class for feedback, and you will receive them back.