MAKE THE BEST OF EVERY LESSON

To maximize every learning opportunity, there are a few things you can do. First, prepare by going over the unit in advance the day before the teacher explains new work. Try to think about reasons why the specific topic is part of the curriculum. Then get a quick overview of the entire section by reading the headings in the unit. Before reading it in detail, also take a few moments to ask yourself what you already know about the subject. Perhaps you have already heard about it in relation to another topic, seen something about it on television, or read about it in a book. Ask yourself where do you think one would be able to use this knowledge, for example in which professions?

By asking these types of questions, you help your brain make connections between ideas in the text and your own background knowledge. Begin to slowly read through the text. Be constantly aware of whether your predictions and expectations of the text are being met. When you come across fresh concepts in the learning material that conflict with what you already know, stop immediately. Make a note of it and read on. When you encounter an unfamiliar word, pause, attempt to determine its meaning from the surrounding text and make a note. The following day ask your teacher to explain any uncertainties.

Dr Ora Marx