In this lesson, students will learn the note-taking techniques of the Cornell method; note-making involves shortening long, complex data to simple lines for faster revision.
1. Note Taking Methods Cornell Method Mind Maps Outlines
2. Cornell Method of Note Taking  On each page of notes, draw a vertical line 1.5” from the left edge of the paper. In the left hand column, write key words, clues and sample questions.  In the right hand column, write out processes, concepts, definitions…
3. Mind Map Note Taking  Similar to traditional outline form—but you use visual links to communicate effectively with both halves of your brain.  Visual patterns provide a framework for recall.  Encourages deductive reasoning—moves information from general to specific
4. Mind Map Procedures  Turn your paper around and use the landscape format  Determine the main concept of the lecture.  Place the main concept in the middle of the paper and circle it.  Record concepts that relate to the main concept on lines that radiate from the central concept.
5. Mind Mapping Developed by Dennis H. Congos, (2000).
6. Mind Map Procedures  Use key words only.  Aim for one word.  Key words are usually nouns and verbs that convey the information  Use shorthand or abbreviations, or symbols  Use color to organize your mind map  Add images and symbols
7. Mind Map Procedures  Mind maps serve as great review tools  Help in recreation of the information  Help in recall  Move information into long term memory
8. Outline Form of Note Taking  Illustrates major points and supporting ideas  Main advantage – helps occupy your attention  Note taking becomes more than recording ideas  Information is organized for future review
9. Paragraph Form of Note Taking  Use when writing information that is too difficult to outline  Limit the use of complete sentences…reserve them for precise definitions and important details  Leave spaces when the lecture moves to another point  During your review, put notes into an outline
10. Note Taking Techniques  Use key words Use terminology appropriate to the disciple I.e. technical terms, numbers, equations, words of degree (more, least, faster) Key words trigger your memory, making them powerful review tools A few key words can from a chain from which you can recall an entire lecture
11. Note Taking Techniques  Use pictures and diagrams Make visual relationships Copy all diagrams from the board Create your own diagrams
12. Note Taking Techniques  Copy material from board and overhead Record all formulas, diagrams, and problems Copy dates, names, places, numbers, facts If it is on the board, put it in your notes! Use a symbol to denotes it’s importance, if it appears on the board, it can appear on an exam
13. Note Taking Techniques  Use a three ring binder Pages can easily be removed for later review Allows you to insert additional notes later Insert text or out-of-class notes in correct order Easy to make additions, deletions, revisions, and corrections
14. Note Taking Techniques  Keep your own thoughts separate Avoid making editorial comments within your lecture notes This avoids confusion later as to what was said by the instruction and what your input was Clearly label your comments as your own
15. Note Taking Techniques  Label, number, date, all notes Use standard abbreviations Be consistent with your abbreviations May be helpful to have a symbol key Avoid vague/ambiguous abbreviations