I can't remember ever being taught how to take notes, which is something that I used to struggle with. Now I can take clear and effective notes, but I think if I were taught how to, I would have done better in content area classes.
The way that I take notes is just by writing what the teacher says, rather paraphrasing what he/she says. I have tried taking notes using the split-page format, but I just don't like it. I end up using twice as much paper and still trying to write everything the teacher says. I have also used the outline or quadrant format for different classes. In my experience, it depends on the subject in using this format. I can see how it would be beneficial in a math class, but it could also be used in an English class while discussing the different parts of speech.
The way that I review/study my notes is either by rereading them and/or rewriting them. It's like the more I write the information, the better I retain the information. I have made index cards for certain subjects (mainly for important vocabulary or people), but I very rarely make/use them.
I liked how the text talked about teaching ELL's to note-take helps them understand and learn vocabulary. If you haven't noticed from my previous posts, I am a bit scared of having ELL's in my classroom. I'm not scared OF them, I'm just worried that having a language barrier between us will keep them from learning in my class. And as a teacher, that is my worst fear. So I can definitely say that I will teach my ELL's the importance of note-taking and the best way for them to take notes.
One question I have about teaching my students about note-taking: For ADHD students, is there a "preferred" way of note-taking that has been researched that works well? Also, what are some strategies that I could use to help my ADHD students to get focused on taking notes besides saying, "write this down" every five minutes?
Really good points, Amanda. Aside from notetaking, let me say a word about my experience with ELLs--I was just like you, scared of the barrier and how to address it. But here's what I learned. Nine times out of ten, they are so thirsty for learning and attention that they'll meet you beyond the halfway point, and it's so rewarding to get past language barriers in even the smallest of ways. It's like a little celebration moment every single day. Pronounce a word right and share a smile. Keep talking to ELLs, say their names, the learning will come along and you'll get some help. That's been my experience. Dr B
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