Tips to make your interactive learning log work for you
Use these tips to help you make the most of this notebook as a study and learning tool.
• Use color: Color-coding key phrases and terms is one way to make sure that they stick in your mind. For example, if there are unfamiliar terms/phrases you come across in your reading or viewing of videos, you might write them down in red ink. If there are questions you have about something you’ve seen/read, highlight them in yellow so that when you come to class the next day, you can remember to ask about them.
• Don’t tear any pages out: You want to keep the entire notebook intact. Ideally, this notebook will be your study guide for in-class tests as well as the AP exam in May. We will do some sort of interactive activity in your notebook nearly every day.
• Create pockets: for items such as flash cards or handouts that do not fit easily into the notebook: Sometimes I will have you make flashcards or give you a handout that does not readily fit into the notebook. Use a half-sheet of paper or a 5x8 index card and some tape to create a pocket for these things to fit into.
• Write down questions you have about things you do not understand: Do this, and highlight them in a certain color so that you can ask about them in class the next period!
• KEEP THINGS IN ORDER. Don’t put things from one unit in another unit’s section.
• Tab off sections by unit of study: This will help you keep your materials organized in a way that makes sense. I have an example of a BILL like this for you to look at.
• Keep it neat and organized!: If your BILL isn’t neat and organized, you will find it difficult to use this notebook as a study tool.
We will use our BILL on a daily basis so be sure to bring it to class each period.
Adapted from Tips to make your interactive learning log work for you by Lee Ferguson, Allen HS