1. Taking Lecture Notes How to Record and Remember Classroom Discussions or Lectures

2. Taking Lecture Notes Keeping Your Notes Organized Write topic & Date at the top of each page Can also number each page Record you notes in the same place every time Three-ring binder or spiral notebook Follow the same format – every time! How can this help?

3. Taking Lecture Notes Listen carefully Especially when a new topic is introduced Listen for Clues Example: “I’m going to explain the three branches of the federal government.” You then listen for three subtopics What are some other clues?

4. Taking Reading Notes Note Taking Flow Chart Listen Think Write Analyze Text: Picking Out the Important Information Synthesize the Information: Construct Your Own Understanding

5. Taking Lecture Notes Write Notes in YOUR OWN WORDS!!!! You are more likely to remember your own words vs. another person’s words Don’t try to write everything down! Don’t try to put your notes into sentences Notes should be in short phrases

6. Taking Lecture Notes Write anything down that is new to you Don’t worry about spelling – Why? Use your best guess Correct the spelling later If you have a question – ask it ASAP! Why?

7. Taking Lecture Notes Use abbreviations Familiar/standard abbreviations (Ex: & = and) Which ones do you know? Invent your own secret code Be sure you’ll remember them Use them consistently Used for notes only – not on tests or formal assignments

8. Taking Lecture Notes Draw pictures or diagrams to help you remember (graphic organizers) Give examples What are the benefits of graphic organizers? Helps visualization Organizes ideas and facts Effective study tool Helps develop logical thinking process

9. Taking Lecture Notes Listen for Key Words First – Second, Last, Most Importantly Copy whatever the teacher writes on the board, overhead projector, or PowerPoint Pay attention to teacher’s tone and emphasis Make a list of questions to ask after the presentation