Math and Science Study strategies

1. Math and Science Study strategies Test prep

2. Prepare for the lesson • Before beginning a new concept, it is important to review old concepts • Math is like building blocks. First, you build a foundation and then you can build off of that • Always make sure to work in PENCIL so that you can erase! • Use a new sheet of paper for each concept and do not cram information on your note sheet! • Science: • Have skeleton notes printed out so that they can be filled in. • Check all answers with the teacher or a friend to make sure you have the correct answers

3. Vocabulary and processes • It is important to know the vocabulary but not memorize it for math. Be able to understand the concept and process. • What is the purpose of each step? • Why would this be the next step? • In science, it is important to know the vocabulary and be able to apply it. • Make flash cards with pictures • Be specific when answering questions • If you do not understand a concept, go for extra help. You need to build your foundation.

4. Homework • Do your homework as soon after class as possible. It is still fresh in your mind! • Begin by reviewing your lecture notes. • Try doing your homework with a classmate who has a strong understanding of the material • Check your first couple of answers to ensure you understand the process • Read each problem slowly and carefully • Summarize word problems. Underline what is important! • Ensure that all parts of questions are answered, not just the first part

5. Studying for tests • Write up a summary sheet of key formulas and definitions. • Attend any review sessions • Review all of your previous quizzes and rework the problems/short answer questions • Study for your test by working mixed sets of problems • Remember to check all of your results!

6. After the test • Rework any problems you missed/ look up correct answers • If you do not understand the question or process be sure to ask your teacher • Take notes of the missed process/concept so you can study it for the future • Make sure to place tests and quizzes in a separate section of your notebook so it can be easily located • Stay organized

7. Preparing for midterms and finals • Relax • Complete sample problems, but not too many. You do not want to get overwhelmed • Complete study guide and mark problems that you are confused on • Make sure to check all answers • Make sure you know how to properly type information into calculators

8. During the test • Breathe • During multiple choice look to eliminate options • If you do not know it, skip it and go back. • Do the ones you know first! • Don’t get frustrated. Look to recall information that you do know • Complete as much of the problem as you can • Use information from an answer you know to assist with one that you do not • It is important to fill in every answer! If you are unsure, take your best guess. • Show all work!!

9. Extra help • Ask your teacher or another teacher for assistance • Ask for a tutor provided by the school (NHS) • Complete practice problems • In textbook (remember all odd problems have answers in the back of the book to check your work!) • Supplemental worksheets • Online tutorials • Online worksheets

10. Resources Math: • http://www.math.com/homeworkhelp/Algebra.html • http://www.mathplanet.com/ • http://www.purplemath.com/modules/ • Look at online textbook for additional resources • http://www.classzone.com/cz/index.htm Science: • Teacher websites! • How to log on • http://www.homeworkspot.com/high/science/ • http://www.ebizmba.com/articles/science-websites