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Tuesday, September 7, 2010

Study Habits: What works for you?

As you guys write another essay for me (I know, I know), I'm sitting behind my computer grading Summer Reading Projects in an effort to get ahead of the 260 essays I need to grade, and my mind wanders.  I need a break I decide.

I bet you all wonder, "What's a break for Mrs. Powers?"  Honestly, most days, it's a few Scrabble moves. Alas, the district blocks all access to games, and my iPhone doesn't have reception in the blackhole of my classroom, so Scrabble is out.  Instead, I open up my link for The New York Times. Interestingly enough, I find an article about study habits.  As I read it, I find that some of the research actually sort of applies to the situation I'm in right now.

Read this excerpt:
Varying the type of material studied in a single sitting — alternating, for example, among vocabulary, reading and speaking in a new language — seems to leave a deeper impression on the brain than does concentrating on just one skill at a time. Musicians have known this for years, and their practice sessions often include a mix of scales, musical pieces and rhythmic work. Many athletes, too, routinely mix their workouts with strength, speed and skill drills. 
OK, I know I'm not studying, but I am concentrating.  When I'm grading your papers, I want to give as much consideration and time to each of you. You deserve that.  My assumption is that you all worked equally  hard on the assignment, and you would want me to put equal effort into grading it. However, sometimes my mind wanders, and my level of attention is not as great as when I started, so I take a break.  I think it benefits you and me to do that once in a while.  Now, this research on studying says the same thing really.  Sometimes our brains need alternatives to stay stimulated, and when we do that, we actually retain more.

Read the entire article here:  Forget What You Know About Good Study Habits

How do you study? Did this article make you think about changing the way you study? Does it go against or for the environment your parents have established for you?

Directions for commenting to this post:
In your required comment to this blog, please begin with a sentence or sentences copied and pasted from the article, Forget What You Know About Good Study Habits,  which made you think about your study habits. Be sure to place quotation marks around the sentence or sentences. It can be something you agree with, disagree with, or just find interesting. Use that sentence as a starting point for your comment.

128 comments:

  1. This comment has been removed by the author.

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  2. Period 6 Ryan G.

    Mrs. Powers, I agree with what this article mentions. You cannot focus on one thing for too long. If you do, you get too bored and just don't even concentrate. Breaking up he studying allows your brain to concentrate on separate things. That way, you don't have to take in too much information in one sitting.

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  3. "For instance, instead of sticking to one study location, simply alternating the room where a person studies improves retention. So does studying distinct but related skills or concepts in one sitting, rather than focusing intensely on a single thing. " This particular section in the article provides information that i find very interesting and i will try approaching new study strategies using this method of studying.

    Tyler Anne Giglio Period 3

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  4. This comment has been removed by the author.

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  5. Courtney E. LA-3
    "Yet there are effective approaches to learning, at least for those who are motivated. In recent years, cognitive scientists have shown that a few simple techniques can reliably improve what matters most: how much a student learns from studying."
    I definitely agree with the idea that you need to take breaks and change up the studying. In fact, this is how I have studied before and it was a lot less stressful, and I actually learned something. I got creative with it. I would sometimes do my homework/studying at a desk in my room, but when I got tired of that, i used my bed, then the living room and any other cool way to make it interesting. Also, it is absolutely IMPOSSIBLE for me to have to do all of my homework and studying at once. It's just too much! When i take breaks, I feel a lot better.

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  6. I usually study at my desk and only take small breaks when I really can't even look at my homework anymore. After reading this article, I think I will try doing my work in different locations and switching off what I'm working on so that I can be more focused on what I'm trying to do. I actually liked this article a lot and enjoyed the study tips. :)

    Lauren White
    Period 2

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  7. "Varying the type of material studied in a single sitting — alternating, for example, among vocabulary, reading and speaking in a new language — seems to leave a deeper impression on the brain than does concentrating on just one skill at a time." I always thought that when you focus on more than one thing that it would be harder to remember, but I guess not. The scientists are doing a good job trying to find better ways to study since many students find studying dull. However, maybe that is because that's just not the way to study for them. If scientists find different ways to study then us students should try them out to see if it a way suits us. Also, they are right to not just study for a long time, but to take breaks since most people would get bored and not concentrate on the studying but they would probably get distracted.

    Maggie Meng
    Period 6

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  8. "Does Junior’s learning style match the new teacher’s approach? Or the school’s philosophy? Maybe the child isn’t “a good fit” for the school." By saying this, the article is saying that parents try to blame others for their kid's failure. Now I know that sometimes this quote reigns true, but for the most part children can adapt to the style of a teacher. In this article I felt that some people could use some help with their study habits. Kids, and parents, both need to learn that if you work hard and do what your teacher wants, you will ultimately fit in with any school related situation.
    Kevin Scott Period 5

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  9. "For instance, instead of sticking to one study location, simply alternating the room where a person studies improves retention. So does studying distinct but related skills or concepts in one sitting, rather than focusing intensely on a single thing." I think this is a good idea. I'll try and see if it works. This article is very interesting. Thanks for sharing it!

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  10. "Yet there are effective approaches to learning, at least for those who are motivated. The findings can help anyone, from a fourth grader doing long division to a retiree taking on a new language." At our age, we tends to get distracted when we study, because studying isn't the most exciting things. Yet, if we are motivated, then we will pay more attention to what we are reviewing, and it will be more effective. In addition, studying isn't that different for different age groups.

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  11. "The findings can help anyone, from a fourth grader doing long division to a retiree taking on a new language. But they directly contradict much of the common wisdom about good study habits, and they have not caught on." Good study habits have helped me survive middle school. I have many entertaining things in my room, from a slinky to my book, but after a while one tends to be able to ignore those entertaining objects and understand what's important. I do believe that many people haven't exactly grasped the idea of good study habit, even if they may be doing it without noticing.
    Ines Acosta, pd. 5

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  12. "Yet there are effective approaches to learning, at least for those who are motivated. The findings can help anyone, from a fourth grader doing long division to a retiree taking on a new language."

    For many middle schoolers, whenever a teacher writes "Study!" or "Read Chapter 4-2" as homework, they think it is optional. Really, who wants to have to do work, when it's probably not going to ever be used? An F on a test is a small price to pay for fun! Wrong. Studying and homework are very important. Teachers at any time can say, "Ok, take out a sheet of paper, now we're going to have a pop quiz on last night's reading." And what happens if you didn't read last night? Then you fail the pop quiz! Studying (and homework) at times seem very boring, but it is a must if you want to get straight "A"s in school. I thought these tips were very helpful and I definitely want to try them out!

    -Mira Merchant, p. 3

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  13. Since I am usually left brained, I use simple tactics to study like reading through the information every night before I go to bed. This helps my brain really absorb the information really easily. But at times I am right brain, because often I like to record my voice reading over all the info needed to know, and play it over and over again. Occasionally, I will make easy songs to remember with the facts I need to study, and this is a fun activity that usually works for me.
    After reading this article ,though,I am interested in trying new methods for studying. For instance: "instead of sticking to one study location, simply alternating the room where a person studies improves retention. So does studying distinct but related skills or concepts in one sitting, rather than focusing intensely on a single thing." Those approaches to studying are very amusing because I originally thought that studying one concept at a time was easier.I think I will try it for my next test! My parents always told me just to study and review the material. So with the advice given in the article I think my parents would probably agree with those strategies.
    Lastly, Mrs powers I totally agree that taking breaks is vital. When I come home from school I find it hard to go straight to starting my homework. I watch TV or use the internet and this helps clear my head for a fresh start when i begin my homework.

    -Alyssa McDoom
    Period 2

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  14. Austin Cline P.6
    I study very differently than this article says to do so. I study by studying a section of what I'm supposed to every day, and on the last day, I review all of it. After reading this article, I am going to study everything at once eac night, and see if I can get better test scores. If I do not, I am going to go back to my original way of studying. The reason I study the way I do, is because that is the way my dad has taught me to study.

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  15. "“We have known these principles for some time, and it’s intriguing that schools don’t pick them up, or that people don’t learn them by trial and error,” said Robert A. Bjork, a psychologist at the University of California, Los Angeles. “Instead, we walk around with all sorts of unexamined beliefs about what works that are mistaken.”"
    I was shocked to learn that people had known of these study habits previously and never thought to use or share them. I know that when I have a test to study for, my parents are always yelling at me to go into my bedroom with the textbook and my notes and get going. However, now I have a reason to say no....and possibly make studying fun and different. While before it was "sit in your room, no talking, and re-read everything. Then when you're done, go on to the the next subject." Now studying can have an entertaining aspect in it, with a different place to choose to study in, and swapping out subject for subject whenever I get bored. This is a very interesting article, and I plan on sharing it with my family.

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  16. "For instance, many study skills courses insist that students find a specific place, a study room or a quiet corner of the library, to take their work. The research finds just the opposite."

    I have always studied in a quiet room. I guess that now according to this study, I will definetly try to study in a different area. I study differently than what is stated here, so after reading this, I will change my habits of studying.


    meredith sheldon
    period 3

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  17. "Cognitive scientists do not deny that honest-to-goodness cramming can lead to a better grade on a given exam. But hurriedly jam-packing a brain is akin to speed-packing a cheap suitcase, as most students quickly learn — it holds its new load for a while, then most everything falls out."
    I find this paragraph really interesting because I sometimes find myself cramming for a last minute test. This article really opened my eyes and Im going to try studying for 30 minutes each day instead of 4 hours the night before.

    Samantha G period 4

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  18. "Yet there are effective approaches to learning, at least for those who are motivated. In recent years, cognitive scientists have shown that a few simple techniques can reliably improve what matters most: how much a student learns from studying." I feel these couple sentences can relate to any subject. In sports if a player is not motivated to get better and spend time after practice to get better he will not suceed, and how much a student learns from studying is like, how much the time after practice pays off.

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  19. "Does Junior’s learning style match the new teacher’s approach?" This sentence makes me think about what I need to do to make myself understand things, because sometimes I don't understand the teacher's way of explaining it.

    Christal Hector period 3

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  20. 'For instance, instead of sticking to one study location, simply alternating the room where a person studies improves retention.' I disagree with this statement because I don't think that the room affects retention. I think what affects retention is the amount of content you are studying and what the content of what you are studying is about. Also if a student is interested in a specific topic they will remember more about it.

    Luis A - 5

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  21. I learned a lot of good study techniques from reading this article. I thought that the technique about changing the room you are studying in to keep yourself focused is a really good idea. I never knew that. I was also surprised to find out that psychologists don't know what makes students learn and that studying in a quiet room doesn't mean that you will study better. I am going to try some of the ideas for studying to see if they will help me have better study habits.

    Lindsey Jacobs
    Period 6

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  22. "A day later, the researchers gave all of the students a test on the material, presenting new problems of the same type. The children who had studied mixed sets did twice as well as the others, outscoring them 77 percent to 38 percent. The researchers have found the same in experiments involving adults and younger children." This group of sentences from the article made me think about how the fourth graders who studied in multiple environments scored 39 more points on average than students who studied in the same environment for all of their study sessions. This provides some proof that distractions, such as, television, music, and computers, might not actually be distractions. However, I think that some noises are distracting (blenders, pots and pans crashing together, lawnmowers, etc.).

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  23. "Forcing the brain to make multiple associations with the same material may, in effect, give that information more neural scaffolding." - article. This article really made me think about how essential it is to take breaks. For instance; if i sit down to read information out of a textbook my eyes start to tear and hurt, therefore its really important to take a break once in a while during studying. This also made me realize that I need to find different study habits otherwise the old ones would get boring and cause me not to want to study. This is bad because studying time would be shortened and my grade would be lowered.
    This article was very influential.

    Emily Friefeld LA8-6

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  24. "Cognitive scientists do not deny that honest-to-goodness cramming can lead to a better grade on a given exam. But hurriedly jam-packing a brain is akin to speed-packing a cheap suitcase, as most students quickly learn — it holds its new load for a while, then most everything falls out." In the artical scientists say that if you only study the night before a test you will forget everything that you have learned. I don't think that this is true. I like to study right befor a test and I find that even after a few weeks I still rember the material. Also the artical says that its better to study a little each day agin i do not agree with that statement. For me if I am studying way before a test when it come time to take the test I will have forgotten everything that I studyed.
    Josephine Hardin p.5

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  25. "For instance, instead of sticking to one study location, simply alternating the room where a person studies improves retention."
    I found this very interesting because usually when I study, I just stay in one room. But, sometimes I have switched rooms, and when I think about it, it did make me memorize things more easily and stay focused. I will definitely do this all the time from now on. This article will definitely help me improve my study habits.

    Noa Saint-Marc
    Period 5

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  26. "For instance, instead of sticking to one study location, simply alternating the room where a person studies improves retention."

    I found this quite surprising, as I never even thought that the place had an influence on the studies except if it was distracting. As for me, I usually study things in only one place and I don't think studying in multiple places would make me learn more. Though, I have noticed that studying with a break in between or different days for the same amount of time is more effective.

    Francisco R. Period 3

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  27. "The brain makes subtle associations between what it is studying and the background sensations it has at the time, the authors say, regardless of whether those perceptions are conscious. It colors the terms of the Versailles Treaty with the wasted fluorescent glow of the dorm study room, say; or the elements of the Marshall Plan with the jade-curtain shade of the willow tree in the backyard. Forcing the brain to make multiple associations with the same material may, in effect, give that information more neural scaffolding. "

    I never realized that the brain takes into account what your surroundings are when you study. I tend to just study and look over the material in my room. As a result, my brain is probably used to my room's surroundings. Now I know that if I study, and then go to another room and study, I will have to remember the information twice and relate it to different things. So, more neural pathways will be made and I will be able to remember things faster. I have to give this technique a try.

    Lawrence X. Period 3

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  28. "Varying the type of material studied in a single sitting — alternating, for example, among vocabulary, reading and speaking in a new language — seems to leave a deeper impression on the brain than does concentrating on just one skill at a time."
    I found the entire article to be very interesting, but especially this sentence. That's because before reading it, I thought exactly the opposite of what this says. I used to think it was best to focus on one subject at a time before taking breaks, but now I won't do that. I also will move around when I'm studying, because I usually stay in the same location. I'll admit that by doing that, I would sometimes get bored and have trouble focusing more on the material.
    I also have noticed that studying for a test only the night before can be very helpful because the information is fresh inside your head, but it gets lost after a little while.
    This article made me realize how many useful study habits there are, but most people teach you to do the opposite.

    Jen Schonberger
    period 3

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  29. "When the neural suitcase is packed carefully and gradually, it holds its contents for far, far longer. An hour of study tonight, an hour on the weekend, another session a week from now: such so-called spacing improves later recall, without requiring students to put in more overall study effort or pay more attention, dozens of studies have found."
    This caught my attention. I've always thought that studying the night before a big test makes me remember the information better the next day. I thought that since the studying takes place so close to when I'll be taking the test, I'll remember more. Now I know that the better decision is to start studying in advance instead of the night before the test.
    Gabi S.F. Period 5

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  30. "For instance, instead of sticking to one study location, simply alternating the room where a person studies improves retention. So does studying distinct but related skills or concepts in one sitting, rather than focusing intensely on a single thing."

    This is pretty much the exact opposite of what I do. I usually sit at my desk and study the same topic. I never even thought about studying in another room or studying more than one subject at a time.

    Jake Truske Period 4

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  31. “None of which is to suggest that these techniques — alternating study environments, mixing content, spacing study sessions, self-testing or all the above — will turn a grade-A slacker into a grade-A student. Motivation matters. So do impressing friends, making the hockey team and finding the nerve to text the cute student in social studies.

    ‘In lab experiments, you’re able to control for all factors except the one you’re studying,’ said Dr. Willingham. ‘Not true in the classroom, in real life. All of these things are interacting at the same time.’”

    I chose that text from the article because it says that the study habits mentioned aren’t always going to transform a student. I also appreciated that they mentioned that a students’ brains probably acted differently in the lab experiment than they do in the classroom. During school, students are focusing on things other than studying for the upcoming test, and sometimes it’s difficult to plan a study schedule that includes different environments and spacing study sessions. However, this form of studying may work better for some students rather than pulling an “all-nighter” and cramming the information. I have tried both ways and I’m actually more comfortable with studying the night before, but I’ve noticed that alternating between the subjects I’m studying does help.

    Andrea De Abreu
    P.4

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  32. Period 6 Ryan G.

    Hi Mrs. Powers, my previous post was not quoted, so here it goes.

    "However, sometimes my mind wanders, and my level of attention is not as great as when I started, so I take a break. I think it benefits you and me to do that once in a while. Now, this research on studying says the same thing really. Sometimes our brains need alternatives to stay stimulated, and when we do that, we actually retain more."

    I agree with what this article, and especially this quote mentions. You cannot focus on one thing for too long. If you do, you get too bored and just don't even concentrate. Breaking up he studying allows your brain to concentrate on separate things. That way, you don't have to take in too much information in one sitting.

    ReplyDelete
  33. "But individual learning is another matter, and psychologists have discovered that some of the most hallowed advice on study habits is flat wrong. For instance, many study skills courses insist that students find a specific place, a study room or a quiet corner of the library, to take their work. The research finds just the opposite."

    I'm surprised that schools haven't seen this already when they look at test or quiz grades. Since I have ADHD, when I study, I always move from room to room to study because I really can't sit still. Then my parents tell me to sit down because I'm making them nauseous (what!?). Now, after reading this article, I can quote it to my parents, they'll stop bothering me, and hopefully I'll get better test scores.

    -Alex Israel
    per. 6

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  34. I agree with most of this article but the line, 'For instance, instead of sticking to one study location, simply alternating the room where a person studies improves retention,' doesn't make sense to me because i don't think that studying in a different room will really make a difference.
    I agree with the rest of the article, for a long time i have been using the technique if switching subjects or tacking breaks after a long time of one thing.

    -aina rivas
    p.2

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  35. "For instance, instead of sticking to one study location, simply alternating the room where a person studies improves retention." I totally agree with this sentence. Whenever I am studying for a test, I never stay in just one place. I always move around to different locations. If I just stay in one place, I get bored of the topic and can't think. It's a strange phenomenon, how switching locations can improve how much you learn, but it definitely works for me.

    Kayla Moodie
    Period 3

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  36. "None of which is to suggest that these techniques — alternating study environments, mixing content, spacing study sessions, self-testing or all the above — will turn a grade-A slacker into a grade-A student. Motivation matters. So do impressing friends, making the hockey team and finding the nerve to text the cute student in social studies." I completely agree with this statement. Motivation is the key to tests and many other goals in life. For example, if you want to get into AllState for band, then you have to practice your seven major scales, and you have to want it. You have to be willing to drive yourself to any means possible to reach this goal. I also agree with this statment, "Musicians have known this for years, and their practice sessions often include a mix of scales, musical pieces and rhythmic work. Many athletes, too, routinely mix their workouts with strength, speed and skill drills." I am a musician and my whole family is made of musicians too, and everyone in my family tells me to practice my music in different rooms to get the feel o them. Also, for events and auditions, I practice everyday for one hour for months. This makes it so by the date of the audition, there's no way I can fail. Actually, this is how I studied already. Usually, I'll study science and then work on math. After math, I'll go back to science and see how much I remember, and it's very effective. I completely agree with this article.

    Elizabeth Schwartz Period 6

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  37. I agree with the article. Sometimes sitting in one place, focusing on one things is difficult and torturous. I know that when I am doing homework it is nearly impossible for me to work on the same exact thing for more than three hours. Or just working on homework, not moving around, for three hours is extremely difficult for me. I need to get up and move around. Take my mind off of homework and focus on something else for five to ten minutes. That way when I return to homework, my brain has had some time to rest and I have the power to sit back down and focus for a while. In addition, I feel that your motivation plays the most important role while studying. Someone who wants a good grade, likes to learn, and understands the topic will study more and much harder which can include taking short breaks. However, the person who just wants to get by and who hates reading, will maybe skim through a paper and goof around while studying. Obviously, there will be a tremendous difference between the results. Although I agree with the article's study habits, I also believe that everyone is different. What works for one person may not work for someone else. Even though this article works for me, that doesn't me it has to work for everyone else.
    Rachel Newman LA3

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  38. Hi Mrs. Powers. After reading the article, the quote that surprised me most stated,"For instance, instead of sticking to one study location, simply alternating the room where a person studies improves retention." Since I was young, I usually studied in my own room, and stayed there until I finished studying. I still do that, considering my little sisters usually distract me if I am not in my own room. Usually, it worked well for me, but after reading this article, I am considering a new method of studying, which is changing the room I study in and changing the topics I study. My mother always tells me to take a break while studying, but my nature usually made me finish what I started. But, now I see that instead of taking a break, switching around the subjects one studys probably helps keep the mind awake and fresh. I am very glad to have read this article, because now I have a new method of studying that will probably benefit me. But, the article also teaches that no matter what one does to study, motivation is the only way one will succeed. So, now I know, no matter what, I must always be motivated.

    Marianne A. Period 2

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  39. After reading this article, I am definitely going to try out some new studying techniques. However, some techniques do not work for everyone. For instance, the technique where the person changes rooms would probably not work for me because I would get too distracted. Knowing me, instead of looking at my notes or textbook, I would be looking around the room at all of the cool stuff. Thus, extending the amount of time I am spending not studying. I think that by seeing how something works or what to do makes it so much easier for me to learn. However, some people think that reading in a textbook is so much better. Lastly, the fact that the scientists are trying to change the connotation of the word test might let students de-stress. I know that when I hear the word test I get nervous and study a lot and sometimes it's extremely easy, but other times its very hard.

    Marina Rubio Period 6

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  40. Studying one subject too long can get extremely boring. A student can begin day dreaming and not perform to there full potential. This article taught a lot of study habits. Most students need a break from their daily routine and rest.


    Chad Daniels-Rosenberg period 5

    ReplyDelete
  41. "For instance, instead of sticking to one study location, simly alternating the room where a person studies improves retention." This sentence made me think about how bored and how much I try to find an excuse to stand up and get out of the room. I usually sit in my room at my desk with my book and study, but sometimes I just cannot concentrate. I had never thought about just taking my study materials to another room. I had always thought that I need the quietest room and no distractions. This made me realize that I just need a little change to my studying habits.
    Another sentence from the article that made me think about my study habits is "Varying the type of material you study in a single sitting- alternating, for example, among vocabulary, reading, and speaking in a new language- seems to leave a deeper impression on the brain than does concentration on one skill at a time." This mad eme realize that this could also be another reason why I cannot focus when attempting to study. I get bored studying material about that same topic. If I mix up the subjects that I am studying, I am testing myself to see if I have remembered the information even after studying a different subject. If I haven't then i may need to go over it a few more times.
    This article made me really think about my study habits and on ways that I can improve them.

    Taylor Bakalar Period 4

    ReplyDelete
  42. "Forcing the brain to make multiple associations with the same material may, in effect, give that information more neural scaffolding."
    A student may get bored studying for just one subject for a long time, and stop paying attention. I dislike having to study a lot on just one thing because it's a lot to remember, and most of the time it's not very effective.
    I actually play two instruments, and practicing one thing for an hour can be very frustrating. It's better to practice a bit of each so you don't get tired. It is also very important for your brain to take breaks so you can concentrate more.

    Kerstin Y. Period 6

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  43. When I study, I get extremely bored if I just study for a long time without taking small breaks in between. It is better to take small breaks so you don't get too bored and lose concentration and end up day dreaming. This article teaches very helpful study habits and techniques.
    Kylie H. Period 2

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  44. I agree with the article and I study where I go to the key points of where I need to study and think of something funny or memorable that is similar in spelling or sound that helps me remember the key point. Staring at one thing thinking "I gotta remember this!!!!!" doesn't help me study at all.

    --Brett Bailey Period 6

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  45. "But individual learning is another matter, and psychologists have discovered that some of the most hallowed advice on study habits is flat wrong. For instance, many study skills courses insist that students find a specific place, a study room or a quiet corner of the library, to take their work. The research finds just the opposite. In one classic 1978 experiment, psychologists found that college students who studied a list of 40 vocabulary words in two different rooms — one windowless and cluttered, the other modern, with a view on a courtyard — did far better on a test than students who studied the words twice, in the same room. Later studies have confirmed the finding, for a variety of topics." I have always studied in a quiet room isolated from other people because teachers and parents have said it will do the best for me. But i guess not, now I'm going to try it out, studying in a cluttered noisy room.
    Michael Gillman Period 2

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  46. "For instance, instead of sticking to one study location, simply alternating the room where a person studies improves retention. So does studying distinct but related skills or concepts in one sitting, rather than focusing intensely on a single thing."

    When I study usually stay at the desk in the computer room, after reading this article on the different ways of studying, I will now try to read my history or finish my math homework in a different place. Studying is important so I'm going to do what the experts say and try not to focus on one single thing, in order to do well on test and quizzes.
    -Allison Blake
    Period 3

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  47. Hi everyone,
    All comments posted today through Monday (due date) will have to be approved by me before they appear. Just post once. I will publish.
    Thanks,
    Mrs. Powers

    ReplyDelete
  48. "...Does Junior’s learning style match the new teacher’s approach?" This hit me the most out of all the other choices. I agree with this question, maybe its because the topic of teaching styles is a very important topic to me. I'm probably the only person in my family that likes math and science above all other subjects. When I tell this information to other adults, they simply say its because I am "wired like a grid" which all of audden makes sence because I tend to learn more from reading and taking notes. And back to what You wrote in he post, I'm a musician as well as an athlete so shifting of concentration is second nature to me.

    ReplyDelete
  49. (forgot to put name and stuff first time)"...Does Junior’s learning style match the new teacher’s approach?" I agree with this question because the topic is very important. I have been told many times that I am "wired like a grid" which makes sense because I learn well from reading and taking notes. I am a musician as well as an athelete so besides having a very tight schedule, shifting focus is of second nature to me.
    -Robert Arnott P.5

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  50. "Cognitive scientists do not deny that honest-to-goodness cramming can lead to a better grade on a given exam. But hurriedly jam-packing a brain is akin to speed-packing a cheap suitcase, as most students quickly learn — it holds its new load for a while, then most everything falls out.
    'With many students, it’s not like they can’t remember the material' when they move to a more advanced class, said Henry L. Roediger III, a psychologist at Washington University in St. Louis. 'It’s like they’ve never seen it before.'"

    This is often my problem with studying. It is very rare that I find the time to study before a test, and as a result I'm forced to rely on last minute cramming. I do get respectable grades on my tests, but I have a hard time remembering the concepts I have learned, especially when I'm not particularly interested in the subject. It is extremely unnerving to have no recollection of a lesson you already learned. However, this piece of advice is not new to me; subsequently, it was the other information that I found surprising. For example, I would have never thought that changing where you study could help you retain information.

    Lauren Goboff
    Period 3

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  51. "For instance, instead of sticking to one study location, simply alternating the room where a person studies improves retention." I found this article to be very intriguing because of the study habits it suggests. I never thought of moving around to different areas of my house while i am studying. Currently when i study i go into my room and sit at my desk. Before school started i set my desk up so i have a designated spot to do my schoolwork. I have all of my school supplies ready so i can study easily. But, after reading this article i think i will try moving spots while i am studying. I will try studying on my couch, on the kitchen table and maybe even outside. This article goes against what my parents have set up for me because they thought that i should study in the same quiet spot where i won't be disturbed. If i showed my parents this article they might be willing to let me move around while i am studying.
    -Adam Gold
    Period6

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  52. I have to agree with what this article says. Sometimes, I find myself forgetting things that I knew I studied. It is so very annoying, and now that I have read the article, I see what those guys are saying. If someone truly wants to get a good test grade, then they have to work for it, but that doesn't mean studying has to be boring. Like they said, studying in different places, and at different times really does help the brain remember things better.

    Henry Perillo Period 2

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  53. "The brain makes subtle associations between what it is studying and the background sensations it has at the time, the authors say, regardless of whether those perceptions are conscious."

    When I sit down to study, I might go outside in my backyard, in my dining room, or anywhere else I find it easy to concentrate. I look over the material and I try to associate it with my surroundings and what is going on near me. The article states that "varying the type of material studied seems to leave a deeper impression on the brain than does concentrating on just one skill at a time." I try to do that when I am preparing for a test. For example, I look over a few sections of math, and do some of the problems, and then I might move on to science or whatever other subject I have to study for. I go back and forth, and this seems to help.Concentrating on only one subject or area gets extremely boring, and students lose their focus and concentration. The articles mentions different study habits that can help us with this problem.

    Andrea Kastner Period 4

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  54. Hi Mrs. Powers,
    I agree with this article. I think that students need plenty of time to study and work hard in school. If they work in the appropriate working area, they are bound to do better in school. I always do my homework in my room with the door closed so there are no disturbances. But sometimes, I get distracted by music or my laptop on my desk which could steer me off task. Students need a good environment to work with no distractions. This will help them understand the topic better. Sometimes, all they need is something to keep their brain focused. Sometimes, music keeps them concentrated on their activity. Sometimes, eating can keep them on task. Whatever it takes to do well, they should learn the right study strategies and put them to good use.
    Sara Pedersen Period 4

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  55. "Take the notion that children have specific learning styles, that some are “visual learners” and others are auditory; some are “left-brain” students, others “right-brain.” In a recent review of the relevant research, published in the journal Psychological Science in the Public Interest, a team of psychologists found almost zero support for such ideas." I found this very surprising because I always considered myself a visual learner. Last year, we learned about these learning styles and to find that they are not true is very stunning. This finding will also help in my study habits, as I usually use visuals, but now, I will strive to attempt both audio and visual styles now.

    Nicki Capella P5

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  56. "For instance, instead of sticking to one study location, simply alternating the room where a person studies improves retention. So does studying distinct but related skills or concepts in one sitting, rather than focusing intensely on a single thing."
    When I study, I get extremely bored if I just study for a long time without taking small breaks in between. It is better to take small breaks so you don't get too bored and lose concentration and end up day dreaming. Also, it is better to move around when you study so you don't get too uninterested and stop focusing. This article teaches very helpful study habits and techniques.
    Kylie H. Period 2

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  57. "Varying the type of material studied in a single sitting — alternating, for example, among vocabulary, reading and speaking in a new language — seems to leave a deeper impression on the brain than does concentrating on just one skill at a time." This tactic usually helps me grasp ideas. This helps me cover more topics at once, without overstressing myself. It also saves time, because instead of just continuing on one subject, telling yourself to switch makes you cover more classes and more information in less time.
    Derek N. Period 3

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  58. "For instance, instead of sticking to one study location, simply alternating the room where a person studies improves retention. So does studying distinct but related skills or concepts in one sitting, rather than focusing intensely on a single thing."

    My parents would think it would be bizarre to keep changing study rooms, and stupid to do multiple subjects at once. Secretly, however, I like to do some subjects together when the topics are interrelated. For example, last year I would do Geography questions on Germany with Language Arts' Holocaust project. However, changing the study rooms frequently is a bit useless to me as changing the location of the computer, having to get supplies from my "main" study room, all that, is not worth the mix-up.

    -LA Period 4, Rodolfo H.
    J.F.Y.I.- There's a scrabble app for the iPhone. It costs three dollars, and you don't need Internet to play.

    ReplyDelete
  59. “For instance, instead of sticking to one study location, simply alternating the room where a person studies improves retention. So does studying distinct but related skills or concepts in one sitting, rather than focusing intensely on a single thing.”I find this article really interesting, because my parents have always encouraged me to study in a quiet room, and to focus on only one thing at a time.This article makes me think about changing the way I study, because I have always focused intensely on a single thing and studied in a quiet room. I will definitely try some of this study habits.
    Melanie Meza P.6

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  60. "Forcing the brain to make multiple associations with the same material may, in effect, give that information more neural scaffolding." "Varying the type of material studied in a single sitting — alternating, for example, among vocabulary, reading and speaking in a new language — seems to leave a deeper impression on the brain than does concentrating on just one skill at a time." I personally never study more than five minutes if at all in any subject. When I do study I naturally follow these things without even knowing they are beneficial. The article stated that people in band alternate their playing styles and learn it faster. Band never really taught me that. I naturally alternate topics because as soon as I get bored on a subject or topic, I either change the topic/subject or I'm done. My brain just can't take nor want to take in more info than it should. I could be doing something more enjoyable instead. I also never study in the same room more than once a week. I just find the one spot that for a random reason appeals to me that day, and then I begin doing my homework, moving around every twenty minutes. I wonder though why music and entertainment were not in the article. Bribery never worked for me because I over study and bomb the test. Listening (ONLY listening) to music or some of my favorite shows tends to get to me to study more effectively than without. The thought of something positive in the background gives studying a slightly less gloomy feel. This does NOT mean I can study a lot. I study 5-10 minutes max if at all on a subject unless it's something important, like what soon will be Shakespeare. My studying habits are different and they help me learn the best for me. I can't even list all my weird habits because it would fill up too much room on this page. So in the long run studying is somewhat important and we all have our different habits to achieve our knowledge standards.

    Jake U Period 6

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  61. "Forcing the brain to make multiple associations with the same material may, in effect, give that information more neural scaffolding." "Varying the type of material studied in a single sitting — alternating, for example, among vocabulary, reading and speaking in a new language — seems to leave a deeper impression on the brain than does concentrating on just one skill at a time." I personally never study more than five minutes if at all in any subject. When I do study I naturally follow them without even knowing they were beneficial. The article stated that people in band alternate their playing styles and learn it faster. Band never taught me really taught that. I naturally alternate topics because as soon as I get bored on a subject or topic, I either change the topic/subject or I'm done. My brain just can't take nor want to take in more info than it should. I could be doing something more enjoyable instead. I also never study in the same room more than once a week. I just find the one spot that for a random reason appeals to me that day, and then I begin doing my homework, moving around every twenty minutes. I wonder though why music and entertainment were not in the article. Bribery never worked for me because I over study and bomb the test. Listening (ONLY listening) to music or some of my favorite shows tends to get to me to study more effectively than without. The thought of something positive in the background gives studying a slightly less gloomy approach. This does NOT mean I can study a lot. I study 5-10 minutes max if at all on a subject unless it's something important, like what soon will be Shakespeare. My studying habits are different and they help me learn the best for me. I can't even list all my weird habits because it would fill up too much room on this page. So in the long run studying is somewhat important and we all have our different habits to achieve our knowledge standards.

    Jake U Period 6

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  62. "In recent years, cognitive scientists have shown that a few simple techniques can reliably improve what matters most: how much a student learns from studying." This quote made me think about the way I study. I study on my desk and read over the material carefully, but Sometimes it can really get frusterating and boring. I would also focus on one thing such as the subject of the test but this passage explains that it is better to go over the topic and related skills because that will help acheive a great grade on a test. This article supports my environment because I study in a quiet place. Sometimes there will be noises but that can be easily fixed. This article shows that good study habits lead to good grades and it also talks about the environment which anyone should study in. Taking breaks and focusing on other topics can also make studying a lot less boring. All in all, this article really made me think about my studying habits and now I know how these habits can be dramatically improved.

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  63. "Varying the type of material studied in a single sitting — alternating, for example, among vocabulary, reading and speaking in a new language — seems to leave a deeper impression on the brain than does concentrating on just one skill at a time." I completely agree with this statement! In fact, I never noticed how sub-consciously I actually do that when I'm memorizing lines for drama. I also just realized that my instructors for theatre actually go over different scenes at different times, this actually has helped in memorizing the lines quicker. I am so glad that this popped up so I can use this new method for studying for school rather than just the arts.

    Adrianna C LA-4

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  64. “When students see a list of problems, all of the same kind, they know the strategy to use before they even read the problem,” said Dr. Rohrer. “That’s like riding a bike with training wheels.” With mixed practice, he added, “each problem is different from the last one, which means kids must learn how to choose the appropriate procedure — just like they had to do on the test.” This paragraph shows that people need to study in diiferent ways. If you practice in different ways, they have experiance for the test. There are random questions for the test and there are random questions when they study. Mixed practice is usually how I study and I think it is the best way of studying. I agree with the other study habits but I believe this one is the best.

    Jason Canter
    Period 3

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  65. I agree with this article! Most of the time when students study the same topic for a long time they tend to drift away, not getting the entire idea of that certain subject. I found it extremely interesting that studying in a room where it is not dead quiet, or at least close to it, actually raises the student's test scores. I believe that study habits are tremendously important and students need to know how to study in order to be successful in the classroom. I really enjoyed this article!

    Justin Mitchel-P.6

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  66. "Cognitive scientists do not deny that honest-to-goodness cramming can lead to a better grade on a given exam. But hurriedly jam-packing a brain is akin to speed-packing a cheap suitcase, as most students quickly learn — it holds its new load for a while, then most everything falls out." These two sentences perfectly define what at least 80% of kids do to study. Personally, I don't find studying to be necessary (spelt it right!) if I do all my homework and classwork and participate in class discussions. I always hear kids complaining that they didn't understand the material for a test, and that's why they didn't do as well as they hoped. Coincidentally enough, these are the same students that don't ask questions in class, don't share their opinions in classroom discussions, and don't volunteer to give their answers out loud. Now, I'm confused. If you don't understand the material being presented, shouldn't you ask the teacher to further explain it in a way that you do understand? Doesn't that seem like the logical thing to do? Also, I've realized that if I take part in a stimulating conversation, I'm much more likely to remember what was said when I see the questions on a test, than when I just passively listen to what is being said in class.
    Okay, now I'm willing to admit that I'm a big enough of a loser that not only did I read the article, but I also read every blog posted before mine. I noticed that a surprising amount of kids said the same thing, "I liked the article. It was interesting. I didn't know some of the stuff that was on there. I'm going to try some of the tips." LIES. I know of only a handful of students that will actually apply what they learned from this article to their study habits. Most will -unsurprisingly- forget the whole thing as soon as they submit their blog post. I did notice that Zach up there had the right idea. He said that motivation is essential if an athlete wishes to succeed in his or her field, and the same goes for students. In other words, a student has to really want to get better, not just wish that they could. Also, it's a lot easier for said student to retain information in he or she can find a way to like what they are learning and apply it to their daily life. For example, I don't think that I've forgotten any of the math concepts that I've ever had to learn. On the other hand, I wouldn't for the life of me be able to tell you what material we covered in 6th grade Ancient History. (Uhhhhhh... something about some important guys that did important stuff and are now dead.) That is because I LIKE math, whereas history is not really fascinating from my perspective. My point of view is that to really do well in school, you have to embrace it (Corny, I know.) and really try to make the most of it. Because if you start to enjoy learning, you're more likely to remember what you learned.
    Sorry for that long and very opinionated post. :P

    As always,
    Caterina G. Period 2

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  67. "For instance, instead of sticking to one study location, simply alternating the room where a person studies improves retention. So does studying distinct but related skills or concepts in one sitting, rather than focusing intensely on a single thing."

    When I read this article, I was a bit surprised on the tips and information it gave. According to the article, I should be studying distinct but related skills or concepts in order to improve retention. As a student, I have noticed that usually toward the end of studying a subject or reading a section, my eyes begin to linger on what is being read. I always thought that sticking to one subject, helped you finish faster and memorize or learn the information quicker. On the other hand, I also thought that studying distinct but similar subjects would make me confuse the information when I take the test on a subject. Yet, my assumption might not be correct. I would have never thought that alternating rooms would help improve retention. Even though this article has valuable information, I have been practicing many tips given, for a while. I have never found a quite room helpful; I usually need noise to be able to concentrate. Also, short breaks from time to time, have been essential to my study sessions.
    ~Monica Hanon P.4

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  68. "Take the notion that children have specific learning styles, that some are “visual learners” and others are auditory; some are “left-brain” students, others “right-brain.” In a recent review of the relevant research, published in the journal Psychological Science in the Public Interest, a team of psychologists found almost zero support for such ideas."

    I found these couple of sentences very interesting, mostly because growing up many of my teachers had in fact tried to explain how I was either right brain, or left brain, audio learner, or visual learner. To know that it was false information is astonishing.
    I usually study in any room that is not my own because if I do study in my room, I find myself more vulnerable of becoming distracted.

    Isabelle B.
    LA-p6

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  69. "Varying the type of material studied in a single sitting — alternating, for example, among vocabulary, reading and speaking in a new language — seems to leave a deeper impression on the brain than does concentrating on just one skill at a time."

    i tend too study the same type of information and only use one location when i study. I did not know that alternating the area or skill that I study will help lead to better results on assignments and assessments.

    Will Fein
    Period 5

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  70. "Cognitive scientists do not deny that honest-to-goodness cramming can lead to a better grade on a given exam. But hurriedly jam-packing a brain is akin to speed-packing a cheap suitcase, as most students quickly learn — it holds its new load for a while, then most everything falls out."
    My teachers always warned against all-nighters, and admittably I wasn't too keen to heed their advice (perhaps my grades reflet that). Though usually I passed a test the next day with flying colors, long-term (say, a final) the material resurfaced and completely escaped me.
    I think overall testscores would skyrocket if more time was dedicated to reviewing materials in class. Maybe if students would minimize persiflage (wink, wink), more information would be retained and less study time at home would be required.
    "Take the notion that children have specific learning styles, that some are 'visual learners' and others are auditory; some are 'left-brain' students, others 'right-brain.' In a recent review of the relevant research, published in the journal Psychological Science in the Public Interest, a team of psychologists found almost zero support for such ideas."
    Learning styles...a myth? Last year, a teacher made her students to identify learning syles to classify the pupils into a specific study habit. Personally, I thought it was effective, yet with this new research I wonder if I could have had superior progress academically had I expanded my study habits.
    Lisa B. Per. 4

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  71. Camille D. P.5

    These statements from the article made me think about my study habits: “For instance, instead of sticking to one study location, simply alternating the room where a person studies improves retention…Varying the type of material studied in a single sitting — alternating, for example, among vocabulary, reading and speaking in a new language — seems to leave a deeper impression on the brain than does concentrating on just one skill at a time.” I find these sentences interesting.
    When I study, I always do it in the same place, usually in my bedroom. Except for when there’s a noise that’s distracting than I’ll move to another room. I also usually just read or sometimes speak about whatever I’m studying with a study partner. This article made me rethink about my way of studying. Although I usually do well on tests and quizzes, I would like to try out these study tricks to see if I will do better. These new ways of studying do not really go for or against the environment my parents set up for me. My parents usually want me to just study hard in a nice, quiet area where I could concentrate, but they also like to test me on the material by speaking about it to make sure I get it.

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  72. @ Rodolfo - -LA Period 4, Rodolfo H.
    J.F.Y.I.- There's a scrabble app for the iPhone. It costs three dollars, and you don't need Internet to play.

    I totally appreciate the heads up, but of course, I have the Scrabble app for the iPhone! Problem is I do not like playing the computer. I like to play actual people, so I need the Internet connection to get to the games with my friends via FB.

    ReplyDelete
  73. @Cat - One of the most insightful and honest comments. I tend to agree that most will forget about the article the minute they hit "Post Comment."

    I wish the ideas would stick with you guys.
    I hope that you actually read the entire article.

    I posted the article because I thought it was interesting, but I also want you all to get used to reading at a higher level like the articles published in the NY Times. I feel like this will also help guide you all to being educated individuals.

    Thanks, Cat, for the great comment. (There are other comments which were wonderful, too, but Cat's struck me as one that was brutally honest. Brave.)

    ReplyDelete
  74. Period 6 Jake DePalo
    "Varying the type of material studied in a single sitting — alternating, for example, among vocabulary, reading and speaking in a new language — seems to leave a deeper impression on the brain than does concentrating on just one skill at a time." This statement is true. Kids can't just sit down and work on the same thing for a long amount of time. If I do that I get bored or I start fidgeting around with my pecil or pen. That is why it is hard for some kids to do a timed essay without breaks.

    ReplyDelete
  75. "For instance, many study skills courses insist that students find a specific place, a study room or a quiet corner of the library, to take their work. The research finds just the opposite."

    For me, I always study in a quiet room. I never thought that I could focus in a loud room. But after reading this article, I think I am going to try to study in a louder room to see if I would be able to focus or not. Also, what I found interesting was that when changing rooms to study, it can help you remember the topic better. I always get bored when just studying in my room the whole night, I think I will try to move around and see if this helps me remember the topic better.

    Emily Knapik. LA-5

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  76. "For instance, instead of sticking to one study location, simply alternating the room where a person studies improves retention. So does studying distinct but related skills or concepts in one sitting, rather than focusing intensely on a single thing", I found this really interesting, I usually study and do homework in my room, but Ill try and do work in the living romm or kitchen and see if it works out.

    P4 Andres B

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  77. Justin Krumper- P. 4

    "For instance, instead of sticking to one study location, simply alternating the room where a person studies improves retention. So does studying distinct but related skills or concepts in one sitting, rather than focusing intensely on a single thing." That really had an impact on me. I didn't no that studying in different places could really change things. My mom would always tell me to sit in a quiet room and study. I never knew that it wasn't the right way. I will definitely consider trying this way, next time. Even though I do well on tests, I usually don't remember the information that long. I guess I am studying in the wrong type of environment.

    ReplyDelete
  78. "Take the notion that children have specific learning styles, that some are “visual learners”
    I am definitely a visual learner because pictures help me understand concepts much better. In textbook, pictures and captions definitely enhance my learning. Additionally breaks and a quiet study place are essential to an efficient study session.
    Max Brenner
    P.6

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  79. "For instance, instead of sticking to one study location, simply alternating the room where a person studies improves retention." I think that this specific strategy is very interesting because I would have never thought that location affected the amount of information a person retained while studying. I for one study in the same area all the time, maybe if I switch it up my grades will improve. The article in general made me rethink my study habits. "Varying the type of material studied in a single sitting — alternating, for example, among vocabulary, reading and speaking in a new language — seems to leave a deeper impression on the brain than does concentrating on just one skill at a time." I was also intrigued by this idea. This article disagrees with the way i go about learning, my study process usually consists of concentrating on a single idea until i know it, which the author argues. Overall, I believe that this article was very helpful and interesting.
    ~Morgan Siskind, LA period 5

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  80. "Varying the type of material studied in a single sitting — alternating, for example, among vocabulary, reading and speaking in a new language — seems to leave a deeper impression on the brain than does concentrating on just one skill at a time."

    Whenever I start to do homework I start off by picking a spot to do my work. I usually get bored and tired of the spot and move to my patio, dining room, my dad's office, or my room. I always thought this was a bad study habit, but after reading this article I was informed that this action will lead to better results.
    Yumi R. Per. 2

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  81. ¨Cognitive scientists do not deny that honest-to-goodness cramming can lead to a better grade on a given exam. But hurriedly jam-packing a brain is akin to speed-packing a cheap suitcase, as most students quickly learn — it holds its new load for a while, then most everything falls out.¨
    I am one of those lucky few students who have a remarkable memory, i almost never study for a test, but i always seem to get an A. When i do study though, i cram all the information into my brain in two or three nights, but i seem to get the same grade as if when i don't study. I think my good grades partly because i pay attention in class. The main reason though for my good grades, is the fact that i am almost always curious about what is being learned. This curiosity is what gets me motivated to learn, what allows me to not study. I am an active student in the classroom and i always pay attention to what is going on. I find the study tips in the article interesting, and maybe i will try them once.

    Federico Trigo
    Period 2

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  82. "For instance, many study skills courses insist that students find a specific place, a study room or a quiet corner of the library, to take their work." This sentence from this article is what my parents tell me to do, but in fact, I think that it is the complete opposite for me. I find it harder to study or do homework in a an area that is completely quite. I usually study in an a room where there is noise and it usually helps me concentrate better (my parents could never understand why.) When I study I also find myself preparing for the test , the day before. I have been doing this for a long time and it works for me. "Cognitive scientists do not deny that honest-to-goodness cramming can lead to a better grade on a given exam. But hurriedly jam-packing a brain is akin to speed-packing a cheap suitcase, as most students quickly learn — it holds its new load for a while, then most everything falls out." This sentence portrays the exact way that I study. Even though, in the long run, I usually forget half of the information that I studied, a couple weeks later, I still find this habit helpful because the information is fresh in my head the day of the test. "An hour of study tonight, an hour on the weekend, another session a week from now: such so-called spacing improves later recall, without requiring students to put in more overall study effort or pay more attention, dozens of studies have found." I have been trying to get into the habit of doing this, but it just doesn't work out. I will give this technique another shot and see if my grades improve.

    Haydee F. Period 4

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  83. "Children have many learning styles, some are “visual learners” and others are auditory; some are “left-brain” students, others “right-brain.”" I am a visual learner and tend to learn better when I have a diagram or picture to look at. To study I use repetition and reviving the topic from the book of notes. This article did not make me think about changing my study habits because my study habits work well for me. This article does go against the enviornment that me parents have set but I don't think that they will change their ways.
    Danielle M. Period 3

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  84. "For instance, instead of sticking to one study location, simply alternating the room where a person studies improves retention. So does studying distinct but related skills or concepts in one sitting, rather than focusing intensely on a single thing." This is very interesting because I often go into different rooms when I study because I get distracted if I am in one room too long and also can't concentrate if I do 3 hours strait of work. Also, this article shows that if you leave a project up to the last minute, you won't do that well because you don't have time to take breaks or switch rooms like the article said.

    Meredith K. Period 2

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  85. LA 3, Lauren B.
    This article was very interesting. I was surprised, however, when I read,"For instance, instead of sticking to one study location, simply alternating the room where a person studies improves retention. So does studying distinct but related skills or concepts in one sitting, rather than focusing intensely on a single thing." Although I do agree that alternating different study schedules, I was puzzled to learn that studying many different things at once is more effective than studying one topic at a time. I have a terrible memory, so when I'm studying for a test, I feel that I work better only focusing on one topic. This is why I agree with the statement,"Cognitive scientists do not deny that honest-to-goodness cramming can lead to a better grade on a given exam. But hurriedly jam-packing a brain is akin to speed-packing a cheap suitcase, as most students quickly learn — it holds its new load for a while, then most everything falls out." After I study for a test or quiz, I become involved with other schoolwork, and when it comes time for a mid-term or a final, I find that I do need to re-learn the material. Perhaps if I did study multiple topics thuroughly at once, I would remember the information in the future.
    Also, the sentences,"That’s one reason cognitive scientists see testing itself — or practice tests and quizzes — as a powerful tool of learning, rather than merely assessment. The process of retrieving an idea is not like pulling a book from a shelf; it seems to fundamentally alter the way the information is subsequently stored, making it far more accessible in the future," explain why students have so much homework every day. The extra work helps reinforce the material that we learned in class earlier that day. This is also why, in the beginning of every school year, we almost always review the material from previous years.
    Well, that's about it. Thanks!
    -Lauren :)

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  86. "Varying the type of material studied in a single sitting — alternating, for example, among vocabulary, reading and speaking in a new language — seems to leave a deeper impression on the brain than does concentrating on just one skill at a time." I think that this sentence makes a lot of sense. From personal experience, I've noticed that if I try to focus on one topic for more than about an hour and a half, I find myself not concentrated and thinking about other things. Alternating subjects while studying is somehting i plan to try in the future.

    Alison H. period 3

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  87. "The more mental sweat it takes to dig it out, the more securely it will be subsequently anchored." Personally, I've never been the kind of person who likes to sit down and spends hours and hours preparing myself for tests, studying for me has always been reading the chapter we're having an assessment on that day right before school. Lately, however, I've noticed that making power notes on the section beforehand coupled with the review to refresh my memory actually help me remember more about the subject, as the material's processed multiple times with some breaks in between them. My studying methods do indeed,actually go along the lines of what is mentioned in the articles, so I'm most likely sticking to what's been working so far. My parents have always been loose on my studying as long as I get good grades, so it doesn't go against what I've been taught at all.

    ~Patricia Shiwa - Period 4

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  88. Hi Mrs. Powers,

    "Cognitive scientists do not deny that honest-to-goodness cramming can lead to a better grade on a given exam. But hurriedly jam-packing a brain is akin to speed-packing a cheap suitcase, as most students quickly learn — it holds its new load for a while, then most everything falls out."

    I enjoyed reading this article and found it very interesting. I admit, sometimes I would find myself studying for a long amount of time the day before the test. This article has helped me realized that I should study about 30-45 minutes every day instead. If I study 30-45 minutes a day, if the material is brought up again later in the year, I will memorize more of the material.

    Taylor W- Period 5

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  89. Nicole F. P. 3

    I definitely agree with the article when it mentions that studying many different subjects, all of which relate to each other, will be more effective with learning. I believe that this is because when a student is studying or trying to learn by looking at the same thing, it begins to get boring. After a while, they might begin to lose interest and their mind might drift and, eventually, they will not learn anything.
    Like the rest of a person's muscles, the brain must be exercised effectively and efficiently where it becomes stronger. To build muscles when exercising, doing different, short, and fast routines will help to build muscles better. The same can be applied to the brain; by studying different things which can be applied to each other, the brain will get stronger and retain information more effectively.
    'Take the notion that children have specific learning styles, that some are “visual learners” and others are auditory; some are “left-brain” students, others “right-brain.”' I agree that to make learning more effective in schools, teachers must notice how each student learns. Without knowing this, there will always be a couple of visual learners that will not be able to follow because the teacher is teaching by writing on a board or there are a few who learn by writing with a teacher who does hands-on work.
    In the article, it mentions various examples of how different studies show how students learn better by combining certain lessons together and comparing them. I agree for the most part about this kind of learning style, but I do not agree that changing rooms to study in will help. If a television is in one room and there is no television in the other, a TV might serve as a distraction while studying whereas a room without a TV will be easier to focus in.
    I believe for the most part that the article is addressing concerns about learning very well and going about it the right way. The experiments that have been done to prove this show very good support for this argument and I agree with it mostly.

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  90. LA Period 5 Isaiah KM

    "For instance, instead of sticking to one study location, simply alternating the room where a person studies improves retention."

    I find that I can relate to this statement because whenever I am studying for a big test from my notes or text book, I find myself walking to different rooms like every so often. I find it helpful to not stay in my room for three hours, instead go downstairs sit on the couch or go to the living room table and study there. I generally procrastinate as far as studying for tests, but I find it easier to remember the information that way. Some might say that this studying habit will lead to forgeting the important info later, but to me the important facts I learn and study usually stay in my brain unless it is a really boring topic that i want to forget.

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  91. "Yet there are effective approaches to learning, at least for those who are motivated. In recent years, cognitive scientists have shown that a few simple techniques can reliably improve what matters most: how much a student learns from studying." There are many ways to learn when studying. I personally review one section/part of a chapter a day and then I review the entire chapter for 2-3 days if time permits.
    Zacahry Pestcoe Period 2

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  92. "None of which is to suggest that these techniques — alternating study environments, mixing content, spacing study sessions, self-testing or all the above — will turn a grade-A slacker into a grade-A student.

    When I read this article i was astounded on how many more ways i could've studied and worked to have improved my overall grades. These were some extraordinary study habits i didn't even realize existed! Also, I'll be sure to use them. I usually just tried to memorize chapters of science and history and constantly solved the same types math problems as my studies but now I know that wasn't the most efficient way to study. I'll definitely think of alternating my work environment by working in my bed room, living room, library, friend's house, backyard, and even at the kitchen table. I'll without a doubt, mix content and absolutely space put my work times. Furthermore, after doing all the strategies explained i'll also self test myself to see if i understand the subjects and content in which i am studying. Also, the environment my parents set up for me did not go against what the article said. Me study and work are (My Room) is quiet and the desk I work on is very neat and large. The room has a window with a view of my backyard. Now i wonder how much superb my grades will turn out following these study tips.

    Sincerely, Pd.4 Richard S

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  93. "Varying the type of material studied in a single sitting — alternating, for example, among vocabulary, reading and speaking in a new language — seems to leave a deeper impression on the brain than does concentrating on just one skill at a time."

    When i study i usually take each separate material and take a certain amount of time on it all in one session allowing me to get all the information i need. I thought that the teqnuqie where you change the room your studying in can effect the material you remember. I personally dont think that it goes against the environment my parents have created for me because my environment is very calm and respectful of each others surroundings.

    ReplyDelete
  94. Amanda Bahamonde
    Period 3
    "Take the notion that children have specific learning styles, that some are “visual learners” and others are auditory; some are “left-brain” students, others “right-brain.”

    This quote made me think about my study habits because I don't always ace every test, in fact, i don't think anybody here does. I usually study the same ways, reading the chapter, or reviewing my notes, which seems easy enough, but may not actually be enough. Sometimes I cannot absorb the knowledge by reading, and I have to keep re-reading the same sentence over again just to understand the meaning. I can't focus. I guess what the writer was trying to say was that you need to find a study habit that fits your way of learning, and helps you understand quicker.

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  95. “Testing has such bad connotation; people think of standardized testing or teaching to the test,” Dr. Roediger said. “Maybe we need to call it something else, but this is one of the most powerful learning tools we have.”

    This particular quote reminds me of my "test phobia"... I actually do make the inference (quite often) that if schools didn't label tests "tests", students would most likely score higher. I do not, however, agree with the part about tests being "the most powerful learning tool". I actually think the whole learning process, including studying and participating, is far more important. Tests are a way to see if you absorbed anything in the previous time spent learning and reviewing. So by the time you are actually taking the test, if you didn't learn well, that is the end of that story. That's just my opinion on that subject.

    I did enjoy this article, I found it quite interesting. Now, my study routine will be: twenty minutes in my room, fifteen minutes in the family room, ten minutes in the backyard, and the rest of the time wherever i find room :).
    - Isabel Hofmann, Pd. 4

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  96. "For instance, instead of sticking to one study location, simply alternating the room where a person studies improves retention. So does studying distinct but related skills or concepts in one sitting, rather than focusing intensely on a single thing."
    After reading this article, I was surprised of the information given. For instance, I thought that I was a visual learner because that was a way I memorized things faster. This article states that there is no physical evidence that any of these things exist. Another thing is that I personally stick to studying on one location in my house to study. One thing I didn't know was that studying different skills can help you concentrate more on the certain subject. I will certainly take these tips into consideration when I am studying for a quiz or exam.

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  97. Tatiana O.
    Period 3

    "Clear a quiet work space. Stick to a homework schedule." Working in a quiet work space always helps me concentrate and I agree that sticking to a homework schedule is a good thing to do. I do that all the time I start from doing math to ending with science. Depending on what i am studying I study in different ways. If its spelling I memorize and if it's a test on a chapter I reread the chapter over and over again. I get a quiet place to work in and that there is nobody around to distract me. The article made me think of studying in a quiet and not so quiet place and see how it works out because according to scientist people who study in two different places get a better grade than a person that studies in one spot. This doesn't really go against or for the environment my parents have established for me. My parents like me to be focused and be alone and not be distracted, usually in my bedroom but sometimes in the library is good too.

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  98. "When the neural suitcase is packed carefully and gradually, it holds its contents for far, far longer. An hour of study tonight, an hour on the weekend, another session a week from now: such so-called spacing improves later recall, without requiring students to put in more overall study effort or pay more attention, dozens of studies have found." OK, I admit it, I do cram for tests and quizzes. In elementary, I never really had to study for anything so I just got used to it. Most of the time, I do cram, but this year I have decided to start fresh and try to do the complete opposite. I agree with Cat and the article, that if you participate in class enough, ask questions, and also study a bit every night, come test day, you will be much more prepared! I usually try to study in a quiet area, but with two brothers and distractions everywhere, its almost impossible. Since I have had to study, my parents have always recommended a quiet place, away from chaos. I'm guessing because thats what they grew up with. However, I bet if I showed them this article, they would be quite astonished. I like to take breaks between assignments, as not to overwhelm myself. I normally try to do homework in the order of my classes, to try to have some organization. I also move from study area, as mentioned in the article. The article pretty much reinforced my goal for this year, and that by cramming, next time you see the material, it is as unseen.
    Diana Sanchez L.A. 4

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  99. "For instance, instead of sticking to one study location, simply alternating the room where a person studies improves retention," claimed Benedict Carey. Huh! This whole article filled my mind with such useful information that at one point I was copying and pasting stuff into word to use as notes. I can honestly say all of this was breaking news in my head. These simple things may help me and improve my skills in the near future.

    Thank You,
    David R. Pd. 6

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  100. "For instance, many study skills courses insist that students find a specific place, a study room or a quiet corner of the library, to take their work. The research finds just the opposite."

    I never knew that studying in a quiet place wasn't the best thing to do for studying. This article was very interesting. Guess I have to find a new way to study!

    Cody Sklar Pr.2

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  101. "Yet there are effective approaches to learning, at least for those who are motivated. In recent years, cognitive scientists have shown that a few simple techniques can reliably improve what matters most: how much a student learns from studying." I personally study and do my homework in the same place everyday after school. So, I have honestly never tried any of these techniques. Soccer is an immense part of my life and as an athlete I try my best in practice. Usually they mix up the focus of skills in practice and that helps because I am pracicing various skills at once, but when we don't I tend to lose my motivation. That also happens to me many times when I am doing homework. In classes like Math I tend to forget or not understand how to do things if they are not explained in a way that will make it simple for me. In Cat's post I say what she said about paying more attention in class. I have tried to do it more closely and I have definitely understood things better. I really found it curious and cool that bthe brain tends to commonly receive informaton better around different backgrounds each time and this would obviously benefit a ton of people. I found this a great article and I actually agree with the content of it.

    Juan Fortich Period 4

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  102. “The contrast between the enormous popularity of the learning-styles approach within education and the lack of credible evidence for its utility is, in our opinion, striking and disturbing.”I find it very funny that parents and teachers have told us this mythical "correct" way to study and it turns out that there is no such thing. "Cognitive scientists do not deny that honest-to-goodness cramming can lead to a better grade on a given exam." This sentence explains my study habit. The night before a big test a take that big textbook in my hands and i just read it. Talk about boring. I both disagree and agree with this sentence. Even though this is my study habit sometimes it doesn't work out for me. Sometimes it does. "But hurriedly jam-packing a brain is akin to speed-packing a cheap suitcase, as most students quickly learn — it holds its new load for a while, then most everything falls out." I completely disagree. Even though it doesn't come to me during a test it finally registers in my head after a couple of days so i do remember most of last year's school year. I will probablly not apply these study habits to my schedule because as much as i would like to i don't have the will power to do so. I am trying to study early and hopefully I will get rid of my horrid craming habit. By the way, awesome comment Cat it was very insightful. I do agree along with Mrs. Powers that most of the students will forget every word of the article and they will turn their complete attention to football and the VMA's.

    Stephanie Mahadeo Period 3

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  103. "For instance, instead of sticking to one study location, simply alternating the room where a person studies improves retention. So does studying distinct but related skills or concepts in one sitting, rather than focusing intensely on a single thing." I find these two statements very interesting. When I study, I will usually study just in my room and focus on one topic and I thought this would let me focus a lot easier. This made me rethink about my study habits, I think that if I tried studying in different places and studying different things in one sitting, it could help me get better grades on tests.

    Heaven Roache, Period 2

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  104. Juana D. LA-6

    "None of which is to suggest that these techniques — alternating study environments, mixing content, spacing study sessions, self-testing or all the above — will turn a grade-A slacker into a grade-A student. Motivation matters. So do impressing friends, making the hockey team and finding the nerve to text the cute student in social studies." I agree with this because many students think that just by looking at a piece of paper and reading it a bunch of times, it will make it stay in their head. That is not true, in order to do good its better for them to take their time while studying and even try to start a few days before instead of cramming insanely the night before. They have to try hard, not just sit on the couch and pretend to study. That is only fooling themselves and wasting their time. Many students don't really care about school the way that they should, they don't study or do homework or pay attention in class. They just walk around and cause trouble because they think that they are so cool. What they really forget is that school is the key to a good future. Most students in middle school think that "oh yeah, when high school starts I'll settle down and be more responsible." But changing and becoming more responsible starts with actions and takes time, meaning that it is a daily effort and if they have to study a bit more each night instead of talking to friends than they should. It's all about the future, and somehow we as students forget about that. Since we are in gifted, people expect us to be nerds and geeks but most of us are normal. The only things we do that set us apart from he rest is that we study our butts off and never give up. Even if it means staying up til 12 a.m. studying just to ensure that we will get our "A." It's all about changing our habits and trying new study techniques.

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  105. "For instance, instead of sticking to one study location, simply alternating the room where a person studies improves retention. So does studying distinct but related skills or concepts in one sitting, rather than focusing intensely on a single thing."

    I was shocked to see this because when i study, I usually study in the same place most of the time. I usually do this so I don't get distracted by other things.Also, when I study, I usually focus on one thing instead of multiple things, for example, I usually study what is in the textbook because that is what the test is made of most of the time. Overall, this article was very informative because I wouldn't have thought of these tips mysself. I was also a little surprised at the tips they gave to study, because sometimes i do the opposite.

    Michelle M. Pd. 4

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  106. “For instance, instead of sticking to one study location, simply alternating the room where a person studies improves retention…Varying the type of material studied in a single sitting — alternating, for example, among vocabulary, reading and speaking in a new language — seems to leave a deeper impression on the brain than does concentrating on just one skill at a time.”
    After reading this article, I was sort of confused. This is because they said that it is better for every student to move to different places while doing homework because that will get them better grades. I think this all depend on the student. For example, in science, a student might study by only reading the chapter and get a good grade. Another might take notes while reading the chapter and get a good grade. Every student has their own way of studying and getting good grades.

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  107. "Varying the type of material studied in a single sitting — alternating, for example, among vocabulary, reading and speaking in a new language — seems to leave a deeper impression on the brain than does concentrating on just one skill at a time. Musicians have known this for years, and their practice sessions often include a mix of scales, musical pieces and rhythmic work. Many athletes, too, routinely mix their workouts with strength, speed and skill drills."
    I found this interesting how you learn better by switching what your doing and how that stimulates the brain.
    Sam L P.5

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  108. There are a few comments which only have a first name or no name at all. Remember, please include your LA PERIOD, first name, and initial of last name, so I know who you are!

    ReplyDelete
  109. "Yet there are effective approaches to learning, at least for those who are motivated. In recent years, cognitive scientists have shown that a few simple techniques can reliably improve what matters most: how much a student learns from studying."

    I agree with this statement. There are many study habits that teachers promote to their students. Most of the time those study techniques won't be the best for the students' mind. Also it's true that if the study habit is working, the only way to answer that question is if the student is really learning. If the student is just reading but not comprehending then that would mean the study technique isn't doing so well.

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  110. "Take the notion that children have specific learning styles, that some are “visual learners” and others are auditory; some are “left-brain” students, others “right-brain.”" I agree with this sentence because this is very trues, for some students the only way to study is a list of facts and text books, and for other students they can only mlearn with pictures, models, and examples. These are all great study habits to learn and to use for the rest of my life. I with to start incorporating these study habits in my everyday school studys.

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  111. "Varying the type of material studied in a single sitting — alternating, for example, among vocabulary, reading and speaking in a new language — seems to leave a deeper impression on the brain than does concentrating on just one skill at a time." This statement reminded me of how I like to focus on one particular subject at a specific time. I don't agree with this statement because sometimes, studying more than one subject, which may be using different parts of the brain, will overwhelm and stress the student tremendously. I find that studying just one subject at a time will assist the student in getting better grades on test, quizzes, and so on.

    5, Lindsey S.

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  112. "For instance, instead of sticking to one study location, simply alternating the room where a person studies improves retention."
    I thought this was very interesting. I actually want to go study something random now, just to see if it works. (I know Caterina wrote that people who are saying that are lying, but I actually want to, just to test it -.- ) All these years, my mom has been telling me to go back to the dining room to go study. Now, I can prove to her that she's wrong, and then I can go study in my room or something. Thank you for posting this article, Mrs. Powers, because I found it very interesting and at times, surprising. (And Cat, I'm not lying when I say that either -_- )

    Michael B. Period 2

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  113. "The findings can help anyone, from a fourth grader doing long division to a retiree taking on a new language."

    I agree with the topic a good study habit is good for all ages or for what you are doing. With out a good study space there is no way that anyone can get anything done. Its been proven by Scientists at Harvard that students studing while listening to music acualy get worse grades on the test or quiz. Just as important as the place is the study habit everyone studies differently and everyone just has to find their way of studing so they can retain information and other facts.

    Evan Harber P5

    PS sory I forgot to press submit it did not send it to you.

    ReplyDelete
  114. Comments for this post were due on Monday, September 13th. Any comment posted after this time will be considered for a late grade.

    ReplyDelete
  115. "An hour of study tonight, an hour on the weekend, another session a week from now: such so-called spacing improves later recall, without requiring students to put in more overall study effort or pay more attention, dozens of studies have found."
    This is exactly what I do, most of the time not even on purpose. I'll remeber that I have a test in a week and then start to study for ten minutes, then I do my homework for another subject. I actually tend to just do homework and classwork, the way I see it, I've already learned the material, why go over it more than I need to. There will always be things that I just plain don't understand, and I'm okay with that. I've also learned that not sweating about a test seems to help, stressing just makes me cram, and that's definitely not the way to go. A little studying goes a long way.

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  116. "For instance, instead of sticking to one study location, simply alternating the room where a person studies improves retention. So does studying distinct but related skills or concepts in one sitting, rather than focusing intensely on a single thing."

    I found this article very interesting. I think it's funny that even the location you study in affects how much information you absorb. I'll be sure to move around as much as possible when I'm studying.

    Julia T. Period 2

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  117. Hi Ms. Powers,

    I thought that this article was pretty interesting, because I can't count the times that I've studied one subject for thirty minutes, and then I just stop absorbing it and start re-reading the same line over and over again, my mind kind of just going 'Huh?' So, I think it's a good suggestion, to switch things up frequently. I'm better when its something I'm interested in, but things like math and, although its so important, grammar just bore me out of my mind, no offense to either subject. there are loads of study techniques, but I think this one clicks with me the most, so I'm definitely going to try it soon.

    Eve M.
    Period 2

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  118. "When students studied the same material twice, in back-to-back sessions, they did very well on a test given immediately afterward, then began to forget the material." I agree with this statement. I have found that if I study for a long peiod of time before a test, I have an easier time remembering the information while taking the test. If I study a few days before the test, I have a harder time remembering some of the information. I thought this article was very interesting and I enjoyed reading it.

    Amanda Sadowski Period 3

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  119. "In recent years, cognitive scientists have shown that a few simple techniques can reliably improve what matters most: how much a student learns from studying." This quote made me think about the way I study. I study on my desk and read over the material carefully, but Sometimes it can really get frusterating and boring. I would also focus on one thing such as the subject of the test but this passage explains that it is better to go over the topic and related skills because that will help acheive a great grade on a test. This article supports my environment because I study in a quiet place. Sometimes there will be noises but that can be easily fixed. This article shows that good study habits lead to good grades and it also talks about the environment which anyone should study in. Taking breaks and focusing on other topics can also make studying a lot less boring. All in all, this article really made me think about my studying habits and now I know how these habits can be dramatically improved.

    Joshua C.
    Period 4

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  120. Take the notion that children have specific learning styles, that some are “visual learners” and others are auditory; some are “left-brain” students, others “right-brain". This to me is only one reason why i have a little bit of trouble studying for certain things. Science and History for me are simple. My big problem is math because of all the formulas. I am an auditory learner and if i put things like the formulas into a song or something then that will be so much easier. I suppose I should do that.

    Lee L Period 5

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  121. "Take the notion that children have specific learning styles, that some are “visual learners” and others are auditory; some are “left-brain” students, others “right-brain.”" I found that I could really relate to this sentence from the article. I have noticed that I am a visual learner and if a teacher is only an auditory teacher I usually have troubles grasping subjects. This article made me think about where and how I study. Studying is hard for me to concentrate on and I get really bored or easily distracted if I am cramming one subject in my head all night. The article suggests studying in different environments or switching subjects so not to get bored; I think I'm going to try this next time I have a test.
    Kalie M. P. 2

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  122. I feel that moving from place to place while studying may improve my grade. But, every person is different. Just as it says in the article, Everyone has their own learning style. Moving around from place to place may not be effective for my sister, cousin, or any one else. Personally, you should only use the method that suits you best.
    - Gabbi Solovay period 5

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  123. The article was very interesting and changed the way I study for school. Normally I sit at my desk reading the textbook chapter until I memorize it, or by studying notes from my desk. I did not realize that alternating positions and topics of study can help myself and others to study more efficiently and purposefully.
    Christian Brandt Period 2

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  124. Period 5 Daniel G

    I agree with most of the other comments, you can not just sit down in one place and study one thing for the whole time. You MUST split up the subjects that are being studied and spend maybe 45 min on one subject then another and so on. However, everybody has different study habits that they have, so it may differ from student to student.

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  125. "Cognitive scientists do not deny that honest-to-goodness cramming can lead to a better grade on a given exam. But hurriedly jam-packing a brain is akin to speed-packing a cheap suitcase, as most students quickly learn — it holds its new load for a while, then most everything falls out." I feel that this quote is very common in middle school, if not on my team. I have many friends who will wait till the last minute to study. By that time, you are trying to learn it before the test, not review or refresh before the test. I am one of these students. After reading this paragraph, I feel a greater resistance against that, and will now not wait until the last minute to study for the test. My teachers have previously told me this, and this article made me realize that this is the real world, and bad grades can come if you do not study every night. Thank you for sharing this article with us, and I hope many more of these kinds of articles come our way.

    Taylor Fellman P. 3

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  126. "For instance, instead of sticking to one study location, simply alternating the room where a person studies improves retention." This dose not work for me, unless it is absolutely quiet. I sit and study, and take breaks every 30 minutes. I can not be in complete silence unless I go to the library, or I am in my room. I think that maybe varying from room to room might help. Unfortunately, it goes against my environment. With a brother, sister, and two VERY loud parents, it is very hard to find nice, quiet place to study. I can tune them out, but it takes a little work and distracts me. Maybe I can vary library and my room.

    Camilo Bacca
    Period 3

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Always remember to use proper writing conventions when posting a comment on this blog! Please include your LA PERIOD, first name, and initial of last name, so I know who you are!