Reading & Writing for Understanding in Biology

Understanding the Syllabus

Reading for Understanding 1. Preview– skim the content, look at headings, pictures, and identify the “big idea” 2. Organize – set up an outline for what you are going to read & take notes on. – Some topics lend themselves better to linear or more free-flowing organization patterns. – Plan how you want to color-code your notes if that helps you – Plan where/how you will write your questions for later

3. Read Thoughtfully – Take notes by hand for many reasons: – It has been shown to help you remember the information more – It reduces distractions! – Biology includes a lot of pictures/diagrams/drawings that you must be able to draw by hand for IB – Practice your handwriting & build hand muscle strength for your IB exams!

2-columned approach Consider using the 2-columned approach for “note taking” and “note making.” – Note taking might be in the words of the text or teacher. – Note making is putting personal meanings & association with what you are learning. Link ideas to past things you’ve learned, or questions the ideas raise, or even summarize in a more simple form.

4. Review- Go back through your reading notes + class notes/labs/activities and synthesize what you’ve learned into ONE set of notes. (re-write or type) – Remember to review at these time intervals for best retention: The SAME day The NEXT day 1 week later 1 month later

memory retention over time

Writing in Science Writing is crucial to demonstrate what you have learned. The writing process also helps you learn. Doing practice writing prompts and… – checking with mark schemes will help you see if you are getting the CONTENT right. – having a non-HL bio friend or parent re-read will help you see if you’re getting the CLARITY/STRUCTURE right.