Junior Journey: Specific Study Tips for Science

In high school, you move throughout your day from science to math to history class. Because you have several subjects in one day, it's important to see they are all treated differently. Studying for science is different than studying for history or English. So, you might not have a full toolbox of study tips for science classes.

Science requires practice to help you learn. In fact, we retain 80% of what we practice and participate in. Science offers the opportunity to participate as you learn. How can you study to get higher grades in science? Use the following tips:

Read: Read the assigned material before class so that instruction solidifies the concepts you are learning.

Bring the right materials: Come prepared with the text and other materials such as a calculator, protractor, elements table, or other helpful charts.

How to work during class

Listen carefully: Instruction helps you to understand the concepts better because there is a visual, auditory, and tactile element (note taking or lab work). Use several learning styles to help absorb and process the information more effectively.

Take organized notes: There are great ways to take notes including mapping, charting, and the Cornell method. These more active methods of note taking help memory and comprehension.

Pay attention to due dates and assignment details: Being organized is an important part of doing well in school. Turn in assignments on time and do them correctly to get better grades.

Ask questions for clarification: Ask productive questions so that you make connections between ideas. Your teacher is a resource of information who you can benefit from.

How to study

Review and rewrite or summarize your notes: Writing things down. Summarizing and reconceptualizing helps to memorize important material.

Spend time on the practice problems: Work the problems until you can understand how the formulas work and when to use them.

How to prepare for exams

Review your notes: Your notes should contain all the essential information you need for exams. Some teachers base exams on lecture, others on the textbook, or lab assignments. Make sure to prepare for the type of exam your teacher gives.

Practice the problems: Most sciences have a practical side so practicing the formulas or writing out the connections between ideas is part of the learning process.

Look over past exams to see what you can improve: Past exams often reveal where you had difficulties. Figure out the correct answers and what you can do to get more right answers.

Everyone is different so get to know how you learn best. Practice these methods until you can use them easily. Once you have your study tips ready for science, you'll be able to focus on enjoying the material. Be sure to access your resources such as parents, teachers, and fellow classmates to clarify your understanding.  Empowerly is always here to help!