How to take and teach note taking

Taking effective notes in class is the key for the most successful students. Note taking is not simply to keep students busy during classes but provides students with extra ability to concentrate on what is being taught and helps to prompt memories and bring back information later.  “Taking notes aid comprehension and retention. Researchers have found that if important information is contained in notes, it has a 34% chance of being remembered. Information not found in notes only have 5% changes of being remembered” (Longman & Atkinson, 1999).

Many students understand the importance of taking notes, but simply don’t know how to do it. How can you help your child to learn note taking skills?

Here are a few tips …

• Take notes in your meetings.
• Take notes using the student tips below while having your child sit beside you.
• Watch documentaries with a notepad.
• Practice note taking skills with your child.
• Attend seminars and free events. (Check your local libraries, colleges, community centers, museums -all have great learning programs which are often free.)
• Doodle. Where? Anywhere! Doodling has been found to be helpful in recalling information.
• Share stories and experiences of how your notes have helped you -both in and out of school.

Here are some note taking skills to aid both you, as the parent and educator, as well as your student:

• Actively listen to important points.
• Create an effective place to take notes -use a 3 ring binder, 3×5 cards, spiral -Use what works best for you.
• Try different tools -pens, paper, etc.
• Date everything -including any handouts!
• Leave gaps on the page for easy reading and later editing.
• Use different colors of ink -for notes and thoughts.
• Box, underline, highlight.
• Define your own shorthand.
• Practice note taking skills.

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