Make Learning Fun! Form a STUDY GROUP Studying with others in a small group can be very helpful and fun when you are trying to learn information, prepare for class discussions, prepare for tests and when you need help to clarify concepts.

STUDY GROUPS TWO HEADS ARE BETTER THAN ONE Group study enables you to Think out loud Discuss/Argue/ Expand your understanding of concepts Share ideas Solve problems Compare answers and thought processes Become better organized Study groups allow you to find people with whom you have more in common. It’s also a good way to make new friends.

THE BENEFITS OF A STUDY GROUP A Study Group can motivate you when you feel unmotivated. Your group members can be your source of encouragement. You may be reluctant to ask a question in class but you can do it more comfortably in a study group. Study group members working together can solve previously unsolvable problems.

THE BENEFITS OF A STUDY GROUP cont’ A study group helps you to stay committed to study because the rest of the group depends on your participation. Study group members listen and discuss concepts and information which in turn helps you to understand details much better. Be Aware of your own importance! Don’t ignore the fact that you also bring your special strengths and talents to the group. This helps everyone in the group.

THE BENEFITS OF A STUDY GROUP- cont’ You can compare class notes with those of the study group to ensure that you are correctly identifying the concepts and not missing important information. When you explain/clarify or teach concepts to other group members, that helps to reinforce the information for you. Studying can sometimes be boring. Interacting with your peers in a purposeful way can make studying stimulating and enjoyable.

How to Form a STUDY GROUP When selecting a study-mate ask: Is this person motivated to do well? Is this person dependable? Can I work with this person? Is this person tolerant of others’ ideas? Do I like how this person shows interest in the class ? You can learn more about yourself and the way you study best by your participation in a study group.

How to Form a STUDY GROUP cont’ Hold Study group sessions in a place that is comfortable and free of distractions. You will need enough space to spread out you books and papers. You could use an empty classroom, the library or one of the study group members home, with permission. Study Groups should meet for no more than two to three hours at a time. Plan one short and one longer break within this time. Plan to meet once or twice a week If possible, plan to try to meet on the same day/s at the same time/s.

How to conduct a STUDY GROUP 1 Outline your goals and objectives and clarify the group roles. State what you want to achieve at the beginning of each session. E.g. review and refine notes define vocabulary develop fact-based questions develop application develop essay questions Answer set questions Teach /Tutor each other Reflect on your achievements at the end of the sessions.

How to conduct a STUDY GROUP 2 Be prepared for each session so that your group can make the most of your time together. Have your readings done and your notes reviewed. List the topics that you want to review, the vocabulary you don’t understand and any new knowledge that you know will help your studymates. List the names and contact numbers for all your study group members.

How to conduct a STUDY GROUP 3 Stay focused and on topic. Assign a member to the role of taskmaster . This person’s job is to set an agenda, to keep everyone on topic and to schedule appropriate breaks. If there are any additional tasks this person is responsible for assigning them. Outlining a basic agenda for your study sessions is effective for staying focused and for time management.

Characteristics of a SUCCESSFUL STUDY GROUP Once started, a study group should possess the following characteristics: Group members are prompt and come prepared to work. Group members feel free to ask questions and constructively criticize. Each group member contributes to the discussion with questions, answers, ideas, problems and solutions. A study mate can be someone you can help. Look for classmates with great attitudes towards school.

Characteristics of a SUCCESSFUL STUDY GROUP Group members show respect for each other by actively listening to each other without interrupting. At the end of each session the group can recall the benefits of the session. Reward yourselves with a planned treat at the end of each session.

Avoid these STUDY GROUP Pitfalls A study group can be a very positive learning experience. There are, however, pitfalls to be avoided. Do not let the study group get distracted from its agenda. 2. Do not let the group become a social group. 3. Do not let members come continually unprepared or unready to contribute. 4. Don’t let the session become a negative forum for complaining about teachers or courses. 5. Do not let any group member dominate the group with disrespect, distraction or disregard for other’s input. Do not allow cell phone use during study sessions.

THE TIME IS NOW!! CGriffin Literacy Coordinator -TO FORM YOUR STUDY GROUP Look around for those persons who you feel would be an asset to you and your study group. Plan to invite them to form the group with you. When the new term begins on January 4 you will have a head-start in readiness for 1st Semester Exams that begin the week of January 18, 2010.