• lenny-learning-logoLenny Learning
  • Home
    Home
  • Lessons
    Lessons
  • Curriculum
    Curriculum
  • Surveys
    Surveys
  • Videos
    Videos
  • Support
    Support
  • Log In
lenny

Ace Your Exams: Effective Study Strategies

user image

Jennifer DiLillo

Tier 1
For Schools

Lesson Plan

Ace Your Exams: Effective Study Strategies

Learning and practicing study strategies

Students will learn and practice effective study strategies, including time management, note-taking, and active recall techniques. This lesson aims to reduce test anxiety and improve exam performance by equipping students with practical tools and techniques they can apply in their study routines.

Audience

Grades 9-12

Time

45 mins

Approach

Learning and practicing study strategies

Materials

Whiteboard and markers, Printed worksheet, Pen/Pencils, and Printed discussion guide

Step 1

Introduction

5 mins

Begin the lesson by asking students to share their current study habits. Discuss common challenges they face while preparing for exams. Briefly introduce the day's agenda: effective study strategies, including time management, note-taking, and active recall.

Step 2

Time Management Techniques

10 mins

Introduce the concept of time management. Discuss techniques such as the Pomodoro Technique, creating a study schedule, and setting specific goals. Instruct students to list their subjects and create a mock study schedule for a week on their worksheets.

Step 3

Effective Note-Taking with Examples

10 mins

Discuss different note-taking methods (e.g., Cornell Notes, Mind Mapping, Outlining) and provide specific examples on the whiteboard.

Cornell Notes: Draw a vertical line 2.5 inches from the left margin to create a narrow column. Use this to jot down keywords and questions. Record notes in the right column and write a summary at the bottom after the session.

Example: [A specific example related to a topic the students are studying]

Mind Mapping: Write the main topic in the center of the page. Draw branches to subtopics, using keywords and images. Show connections and relationships between subjects with lines and arrows.

Example: [A specific example related to a topic the students are studying]

Outlining: Use headings and subheadings for main ideas and supporting details. Arrange notes hierarchically with bullet points or numbers.

Example: [A specific example related to a topic the students are studying]

Have students practice by taking notes on a short passage provided in the worksheet.

Step 4

Active Recall Techniques

10 mins

Explain the importance of active recall for memory retention. Demonstrate techniques like self-quizzing and flashcards. Allow students to create a set of flashcards on a specific topic they are studying.

Step 5

Group Discussion

5 mins

Divide students into small groups to discuss the study strategies they find most effective. Encourage them to share personal tips and techniques. Utilize the discussion guide to prompt and facilitate.

Step 6

Summary and Q&A

5 mins

Summarize the key points discussed in the lesson. Open the floor for any questions and encourage students to reflect on which strategies they plan to implement in their study routines.

lenny

Discussion

Study Strategies Discussion

This discussion will help students to share and refine their study strategies.

What study strategies have worked best for you in the past?

Encourage students to share specific techniques and explain how they have helped.







What challenges do you face when preparing for exams?

Guide students to think about both internal (e.g., motivation) and external (e.g., time) challenges.







How can you incorporate the strategies learned today into your study routine?

Discuss practical steps students can take to implement new techniques.







lenny
lenny

Worksheet

Study Strategies Worksheet

This worksheet will guide students through practicing time management, note-taking, and active recall techniques.

List your subjects and create a study schedule for one week.

Consider using techniques like the Pomodoro Technique and setting specific goals.







Read the passage below and take notes using one of the note-taking methods discussed.

Try out Cornell Notes, Mind Mapping, or Outlining.







Create a set of flashcards for a specific topic you are studying. Write three questions and answers on the cards.

Think of key concepts or terms that are important for understanding the topic.







lenny
lenny