Reading the Assignment

1.     Briefly skim through the pages assigned for reading. Read the section headings and study the diagrams and pictures to get acquainted with the subject.

2.     Read the review questions at the end of the reading so that you will know what you are expected to learn from the reading.

3.     Read through a manageable section at a moderate pace. What are the main ideas? Repeat this until you finish the assigned pages.

4.     Now try to answer the review questions. If there is a question that you cannot answer, you need to go back and review the material.

Your Reading Notes

1.     Write your first and last name, period, and date in the top right-hand corner of the page.

2.     Write the Chapter/Section number and name in the top center of the page.

3.     Your Reading Notes must include the following:

a.      All key vocabulary terms and definitions.

b.     Concept maps, diagrams, symbols, pictures, or notes that describe key concepts in a way that makes the most sense to you.

c.      Write the review questions and your answers at the end of your reading notes. These questions are often show up on quizzes.

The Reading Quiz

1.     Reading quizzes are generally at the beginning of class and are designed to check whether you learned the key ideas from the reading.

2.     You may use your reading notes on the reading quiz.

3.     When you are done with the quiz, staple it to the front of your notes and turn it in.

4.     When there is a quiz, the quiz is worth 5 points and the notes are worth 5 points.

5.     When there is no quiz for the reading the notes are worth 10 points.

Taking Class Notes

1.     After a reading quiz, the class will review the topics and key terms covered in the assigned reading. In some cases, Mr. Adams will provide copies of the class notes and in other cases you will has to write your class notes.

2.     Store these class notes in your binder for safe keeping. No not turn them in!

The Science Journal

1.     You should think of the Science Journal as your own personal study guide for quizzes and tests. You may use your Science Journal on most quizzes, but not on "retakes" or Unit Exams.

2.     Start each chapter with a cover page with the name of the chapter and some drawings of some of the key ideas that you will learn or have learned. The cover pages will help you navigate through your science journal as it grows throughout the year.

3.     There are several ways to organize your study guide for each chapter. You can have your definitions all in one section or highlighted throughout your notes. You should organize it so that it makes sense to you.

4.     Use color to accent key terms. Use diagrams, tables, charts, concept maps wherever you can to illustrate or summarize key ideas.