Extra Work, Extra A's by Salomon

Extra Work, Extra A's by Salomon - January 2014 Scholarship Essay

Many teachers have different methods on how to study for a test. Some can differ depending on the subject or on the assignment that has been given. I believe that students, like myself, get annoyed when teachers enforce a method on how we should study for their class. I have encountered this situation and argued that we should be allowed to study on our own personal methods. Although I understand that teachers than believe we do not study, he/she should receive our own ways of studying as a grade if she desires to do so even in replacement to what she had asked for. The greatest method that I have used and is very beneficial is note-taking during class.

The first time I began to take notes in class was in sixth grade. I originally began to do so in my English class and quickly observed that this was not only my highest grade in all subjects, but I had the highest grade in the class. Too increase my grades I began to use it in every class and they proved to be effective. The main reason for why I believe it works is because it keeps me on task along with being busy so I do not get distracted with other kids or conversations. As the teacher is talking, I am writing what he is saying in context to the topic or lesson that is to be taught that day. After that, once I go home I am able to review or practice what we learned and I am always 100 percent sure that I am reviewing the right material.

Before I began to use this method I would get confused with whether or not I had the right material to review. When I would make flashcards I would feel insecure with my definitions because many dictionaries offer more than one definition. Of course at the time, I was not introduced or so attentive to the idea of context clues. Flashcards would also lead me to be distracted because it was very boring for myself to be reading cards over and over again. Besides flashcards, reviewing an article or the textbook came very difficult to me. I did not find it the same as taking notes because teachers usually make short cuts and find formulas, for example in math class, that create a whole process of work into a tiny combination of variables.

Overall, taking notes during class and reviewing them at home is the most effective way to study for me. It has kept me at a high standard when it comes to my grades. You can never go wrong with this method because you know the teacher will never make you work harder or give you wrong answers. Their intention is to fulfill you with the easiest way for you to remember all the material that is given. I have and will continue to take notes and review at home even if the teacher does not require them because it is for a beneficial cause to which I hope can lead me to a strong-based future.