My favourite method
The Cornell note-taking system is wonderfully simple and prepares students for sixth form and university studies through active learning.
There is a main lined section for notes either taken in class, at a lecture, from a book or a YouTube video and three blank spaces around the edge for the title, revision questions (added in later) and a summary (again, added in later as part of revision).
A notebook for each subject is a fantastic way to be organised for revision and exams. By writing side prompts or questions, students can test themselves on the main content as well as highlight key facts, and writing a summary of the information works as a review and a concise way to retain the core information.
They can also be used for taking notes during tutoring sessions, and as a way of re-organising class notes to ensure readiness for exam season. For visual learners, diagrams and pictures can also be added in the blank sections.
I use them when studying a text to create a ‘go-to’, organised place for notes.
As I love them so much, I have published my own notebook that I use and you can order it on Amazon here. Alternatively, just use a plain notepad and add your own ‘Cornell’ lines.
