Chapter 9: Developing Memory, Taking Tests Key Concepts

The Three R’s: Record, Retain, Retrieve Much like a digital camera, your brain uses three processes to remember information:

Short Term/Working Memory: Record - RECORDING sensory impressions involves your short-term or Working Memory. - Working memory records things that have personal meaning to you. - Your working memory: is relatively short-term (about 2 minutes). has a limited capacity (about 7 pieces of information).

Long-Term Memory: Retain and Retrieve Ways to Retain and Retrieve – Make it… Stick - Regularly rehearsing and practicing Meaningful – Attach emotion to concepts Mnemonic – Using location, letters/spelling, or creating a story Manipulated – Marking up your notes or making a practice test Funny – Make it memorable by attaching humor.

Before the Test: Prepare Carefully, Part 1 1.Identify the days and times of all your exams for the whole term up front. 2.Find out exactly what the test will cover as early as possible. 3.Understand that specific types of preparation required for specific types of tests. 4.Begin serious reviewing several days before the test (the night before is too late).

Before the Test: Prepare Carefully, Part 2 5. Manage your energy so that you’re ready to focus and work quickly. 6.Don’t give in to a nonproductive, negative attitude. 7.Study with other students. 8. Don’t let open-book or take-home tests lull you into a false sense of security.

During the Test: Focus and Work Hard, Part 1 1.Jot down what you don’t want to forget right away. 2.Spend the first few minutes previewing the exam. 3.Start with what you know. 4.Weigh your answers. 5.Read directions thoroughly. 6.Read questions carefully.

During the Test: Focus and Work Hard, Part 2 7. Explain your answer to a confusing question in the margin of your test. 8. Review your answers and change your answers ONLY if you’re convinced you’re wrong. 9. Save time for review.