Take Notes! by Isabella

Take Notes! by Isabella - June 2025 Scholarship Essay

Have you ever walked into a classroom and heard the teacher say, “Class, take out your notebooks and write notes on the assigned reading from your textbook”? Many students immediately start copying the text word for word, believing that every single word is crucial. Other students resort to highlighting passages in their textbooks, which often results in a page that resembles a highlighter party, making it unclear about what information is important to study. I’ve experienced both of these methods during my high school years and have personally struggled to find the most effective note-taking strategy. Unfortunately, these tactics are actually a waste of time. This is why a note-taking class should be a required elective for middle schoolers, helping them establish a foundation of good note-taking skills that will benefit them as they progress through high school and college.
In elementary school, teachers focus on basic concepts that include class discussions and problem solving as students aren’t developmentally ready to understand the benefits of taking notes. Presenting curriculum in a more guided manner is the better approach as teachers aren’t expecting their students to read books independently and take notes on their own. Instead, teachers often provide direct support by explaining key ideas and may distribute pre-filled notes or summaries to aid understanding. This approach allows young learners to grasp fundamental information without the additional pressure of independent note-taking and lays the groundwork for more advanced academic skills in upper grades.
High school presents a significantly different learning environment compared to earlier educational stages; it is generally more fast-paced and offers increased freedom in course selection. Students can choose from a variety of classes that align with their career interests and allows exploration in fields such as business, technology, and the arts. While certain classes are mandatory for graduation - such as physical education which promotes physical well-being or fine arts which fosters creativity - many beneficial courses are optional, such as Advancement Via Individual Determination (AVID) which provides essential skills in organization, study techniques, and college readiness. AVID and similar courses greatly enhance students' academic and professional prospects, but their optional status means that not all students will take advantage of these valuable resources. Since many high school students prioritize their career paths, a mandatory note-taking class would detract from essential courses in their fields and would be introduced too late to make a significant impact.
While note-taking classes may be beneficial at various educational stages, middle school is arguably the most advantageous time to introduce them. This period offers a balance between the structured environment of elementary school (where students transition into more complex subjects) and the greater independence of high school (when students select their own classes and recognize the significance of their choices that impact their future). Middle schoolers gain more autonomy in their learning process and often have more motivation to put in the necessary effort to be successful. According to Edutopia, students who master the art of note-taking can break down complicated ideas into manageable chunks, enhancing their ability to synthesize and apply knowledge (Edutopia, 2020). Requiring a note-taking class equips them with essential skills that enhance their ability to soak up and retain information effectively. Students aim to improve their performance on homework and class assignments by learning how to take structured and effective notes that lead to better academic outcomes.
In conclusion, I strongly believe a note-taking class in middle school should be required. This will have a transformative effect on students' academic performance and will help them throughout high school. Research shows that effective note-taking is not only a vital skill for improving grades but also for enhancing long-term retention and comprehension of the material. By learning how to take organized and strategic notes early on, students develop a deeper understanding of the concepts taught in class rather than merely memorizing information. This important skill enables them to engage with complex subjects more confidently and effectively, ultimately setting them up for academic success throughout their education. Overall, teaching students how to take effective notes can serve as a bridge to greater academic success, enabling them to approach their studies with both confidence and competence.

Resources:
* Edutopia. (2020). The Power of Note-Taking. [https://www.edutopia.org](https://www.edutopia.org)