Reading Specialist, Part 12
Question 1: Discuss the challenges of student note-taking.
Answer 1: Reading for certain information and then taking notes are perhaps the most challenging steps in the process of solving information problems. Students in grades 3-8 require many developmentally-appropriate chances to locate information before the techniques are mastered. Note-taking consists of identifying keywords and related words, skimming and scanning, and extracting needed information. These steps begin after students define and narrow the task, construct researchable questions, and find the right sources. After students build researchable questions from the information needed to finish a task or solve an information problem, the questions can be transferred to graphic organizers or data charts. This can allow them to focus on the key words. Skimming and scanning will help them make use of the text with less time and effort. Information may be extracted and recorded with different forms of note-taking, including citation, summary, quotation, and paraphrasing.
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Question 2: Provide a test-taking strategy.
Answer 2: A reason for test anxiety and poor performance on tests is often a lack of preparation. Children often know about a test in advance. Some teachers also tell parents when tests will be given. Knowing when the test is scheduled and what will be covered can help give the child a study schedule to prepare for the test. One schedule is for the student to study nightly for several nights before the test. Teachers may encourage parents to determine how long the child can be expected to concentrate at a given sitting. The parent should also be encouraged by the teacher to ask the child what material might be on the test and to go over questions at the end of chapters and sections. Maps, charts, and diagrams should receive special attention. A sample test can be developed from this information, which can even make studying fun.
Question 3: Discuss a before the test strategy that might be appropriate for intermediate school students.
Answer 3: Before a test students should: 1) Begin to study the material a few days before the test and take study breaks every 20-30 minutes. 2) Take time to do some kind of physical activity that will help reduce tension and stress. 3) Eat a good breakfast the morning of the test and get a good night's sleep the night before the test. 4) Skim the material and determine which parts are best understood and which ones are still difficult. 5) Read a sentence or two and reread what they don't understand. 6) Pick out main ideas or key terms and think up possible test questions by themselves. 7) Read aloud and study with a partner or parent. While reading, the students should listen to themselves. 8) Think about what important points the teacher talked about during class. 9) Remain motivated and positive.
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