Last Modified:  October 19, 2000  (J. Crimando).

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Your Toolbox for Science Classes

  Actually, these "tools" are "intellectual"  tools, not really hammers and wrenches & stuff.
  Just as you wouldn't want to show up to WoodWorking class holding knitting needles, you wouldn't want to come to science classes without the right tools.

  First, be sure that you're in the right class. Don't skip the prerequisites. Would ever consider taking calculus before passing algebra? If you did poorly in previous classes, the next higher level is NOT going to be easier.

  1. SELF-DISCIPLINE.
Admit it. Everyone has a little bit of a lazy side. We all look for the path of least resistance. For continuing success you need to be in the habit of setting high standards for yourself - and exceeding them.

  2. GOOD READING ABILITY.
You're going to be learning a whole new language and there's a lot of reading to go along with it.

  3. PUNCTUALITY.
Tardiness and absenteeism are devastating in science classes. Being present in class and on time should be ingrained in your habits and be as natural as breathing.

  4. POSITIVE ATTITUDE.
If you've always enjoyed learning and have a long-standing genuine interest in the subject then you'll naturally learn better. Do you remember being forced eat your veggies? If you hate it and resist, it's going to be a rough road.

  5. CLEAR & LOGICAL THINKING.
Science is logical. There are logical tendencies (rules, common themes etc.) in the vocabulary and organization of each subject. If you can mirror these tendencies in your thinking, you'll "absorb" and understand the subject easier.

  6. KNOWING HOW TO USE A TEXTBOOK.
This sounds simple - just open the cover and read it, right? Wrong. Use the text as a REFERENCE like a dictionary or encyclopedia. Know how to find information quickly using the index & glossary. For more depth, skim the summary to start then read deeply if needed. Don't read more than 5-6 sentences without stopping and mentally reviewing it. Every sentence is LOADED with information. Take it slowly.

  7. EFFICIENT TIME MANAGEMENT SKILLS.
Keep a semester calendar. Create both a daily and weekly list of activities and events. Stick to your schedule - but be flexible if needs change. Allow at least one and a half hours per day (six days/week) for regular studying.

  8. PROPER NOTE-TAKING SKILLS.
Download and review my lecture outlines before class. Bring them to class and add details. Follow an outline format. Use the notes to study until you don't need to look at them anymore. Prepare flashcards for memorizing terms. Yeah, it's rudimentary learning but it's a necessary first step towards comprehension.

  9. SMART TEST-TAKING SKILLS.
Be on time, calm and ready. Take a deep breath. Follow the test directions. Read each question carefuly. If it's multiple choice, try to narrow the choices down. Save the hard questions for later. Be sure to answer all questions. If it's essay, see these hints

  10. ACADEMIC FRAME OF MIND.
Hopefully you enjoy school and you've arranged your activities around it. This is more difficult if you're working full-time. Stress, relationships, illness, jobs and other crises may be unavoidable and shake you out of your "learning-centered" frame of mind. A clear, calm and focused mind should be your "game-face" for school.