Middle School: The Basics of Good Note-Taking

By Michele Blandino

It seems that there is a fairly dramatic change in the learning process that takes place during the middle school years. Up to this point, students are generally taught through repetition and drills and most, if not all, of what they learn is contained within the textbooks they use.

Unfortunately, things change dramatically once students reach sixth, seventh and eighth grade. At this level – the grades most commonly referred to as middle school – there is less “spoon-feeding” of material and more lecturing. And because teachers at this level often supplement the textbook material with other information, students have to learn to rely upon their note-taking abilities in order to succeed.

An Acquired Skill

Yet, because note-taking is one of those skills that is not specifically taught in the classroom, many students are at a loss as to how to efficiently and effectively take good notes. As a result, they fail to retain important material and facts which results in unsatisfactory test grades.

Fortunately, note-taking isn’t that difficult to learn. What many students don’t realize is that there is not a single “right” or “wrong” way to take notes. Of course, there will be times when a teacher will let the students know that what they are about to say is important; this is the student’s hint that it is time to start writing. But, there will be other information that may be equally as important that the instructor doesn’t point out. Being able to identify the salient points and make adequate notes is the first key to effective note-taking.

An Individual Skill

Each person has a method of note-taking that works for them – the key is to determine what that method is and stick with it. For example, some students develop their own type of shorthand to help them get their thoughts on paper as quickly as possible. The key is to develop a system and style that makes sense to you – remember, your notes will not have any value to you if you cannot understand them when it’s time to begin studying for an exam!

It’s also important to remember to not spend so much time writing that you don’t listen to what the teacher has to say. In fact, some education experts say that only 20% of what is said should be written down.

Take Time to Review

Finally, until you become comfortable with your note-taking style, you should review your notes immediately after class so that you can clarify points or fill in missing information while it is still fresh in your mind.