Ms. Donaldson

Ms. DonaldsonSTUDY SKILLS LESSON

ASPIRE• A:

Approach/attitude/arrange– Approach your studies

with a positive attitude – Arrange your schedule

to eliminate distractions

ASPIRE• S: Select/survey/scan

– Select a reasonable chunk of material to study

– Survey the headings, graphics, pre- and post questions to get an overview

– Scan the text for keywords and vocabulary: mark what you don’t understand

ASPIRE• P: Piece together the

parts:– Put aside your books and

notes – Piece together what

you've studied, either alone, with a study pal or group:summarize what you understand.

ASPIRE• I: Investigate/inquire/inspect:

– Investigate alternative sources of information you can refer to:other text books, websites, experts, tutors, etc.

– Inquire from support professionals (academic support, librarians, tutors, teachers, experts,) and other resources for assistance

– Inspect what you did not understand.

ASPIRE• R: Reexamine/reflect/relay

Reexamine the content | Reflect on the material | Relay understanding– Reexamine:

What questions are there yet to ask? Is there something I am missing?

– Reflect: How can I apply this to my project? Is there a new application for it?

– Relay: Can I explain this to my fellow students? Will they understand it better if I do?

TEST TIPS• Arrive early for

tests.List what you need beforehand to avoid panic.Good preparation prepares you for the task at hand.

ASPIRE• E:

Evaluate/examine/explore: – Evaluate your

grades on tests and tasks: look for a pattern

– Examine your progress: toward achieving your goals

– Explore options: with a teacher, support professional, tutor, parent if you are not satisfied.

TEST TIPS• Be comfortable but alert.

Choose a comfortable location with space enough that you needDon't slouch; maintain good posture.

TEST TIPS• Stay relaxed and confident.

Keep a good attitude and remind yourself that you are going to do your best.If you find yourself panicking, take a few deep breathsDon't talk to other students right before: stress can be contagious.

TEST TIPS• Read directions

carefully!and avoid careless errors.

TEST TIPS• If there is time,

quickly look through the test for an overview.Scan for keywords. If permitted, jot any notes that come to mind.

TEST TIPS• Answer questions in

a strategic order:Easy questions first to build confidence.Then those with the most point value.On objective tests, eliminate obvious incorrect answers.

TEST TIPS• Review! if you have

time.Resist the urge to leave when you complete the exam--check if you have answered all the questions, not made any errors or mis-marked any answers.

TEST TIPS• Change

answers to questions if you misread the question!You may also find information in the test that will correct a previous answer.

TEST TIPS• STUDY WITHOUT

DISTRACTTIONS• IDENTIFY FACTS THAT YOU

CAN IDENTIFY WITH TO HELP YOU REMEMBER

• STUDY SMALL AMOUNTS OF INFORMATION AT A TIME

TEST TIPS• DON’T WAIT UNTIL THE

LAST MINUTE• GET PLENTY OF SLEEP THE

NIGHT BEFORE THE TEST• ALWAYS EAT AND USE THE

RESTROOM BEFORE THE TEST

• BRING A JACKET