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Includes a space at the top to write the Essential Question, a large column on the right for the notes themselves, a slimmer column to the left of the notes space for questions, and a place for a summary at the end.
The format facilitates the phases of the focused note-taking process by designating space for note- taking, connecting, and summarizing. The notes column may be lined or unlined and can be used with many note-taking styles.
STEPS:
INTRODUCE THE CORNELL NOTE-TAKING SYSTEM: Begin by explaining to students that the Cornell Note-taking System divides notes into three sections: a cue column on the left, a note-taking area on the right, and a summary section at the bottom. Discuss how it encourages active learning and better retention.
DEMONSTRATE THE LAYOUT: Show students the layout of the Cornell format by drawing it on the board or displaying it on a slide, labeling the cue column, note-taking area, and summary section.
MODEL HOW TO TAKE NOTES USING CORNELL FORMAT: Use a sample topic to demonstrate how to take notes in the Cornell format, explaining how to focus on key points and leave space in the cue column for later questions or terms.
HAVE STUDENTS PRACTICE DURING CLASS: After your demonstration, give students a short lecture or reading assignment and ask them to take notes using the Cornell system while you circulate to provide support and guidance.
GUIDE STUDENTS IN REVIEWING AND REFLECTING: After the class or lecture, instruct students to review their notes, add key questions or concepts to the cue column, and write a brief summary at the bottom of their notes to reinforce their learning.
DISCUSS THE BENEFITS OF THE CORNELL SYSTEM: Explain to students how using the Cornell format promotes active engagement with the material, helps with self-testing, and builds long-term retention of information.
PROVIDE PRACTICE AND FEEDBACK: Encourage students to continue using the Cornell Note-taking method throughout the course, review their notes regularly, and provide feedback to help them refine their note-taking skills.
ENCOURAGE CONSISTENT USE: Set the expectation that students should use the Cornell system consistently in all classes, reminding them of its benefits and checking that they are adhering to the format.
REVIEW AND REINFORCE: At the end of the semester or unit, review the Cornell method’s effectiveness in helping students understand and retain the material, and encourage them to keep using it as an active study tool in the future.
AVID'S 10 STEP OF THE CORNELL WAY:
Cornell Notes STUDENT EXAMPLES
5TH GRADE
8th GRADE
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