1. Rachel Kreymborg Science Learning Advisor Student Learning Services

2. What subjects are included in the sciences?

3. What can make science a more difficult subject for some people?

4. The study of sciences is similar to that of other subjects because... There is a distinct language – a “jargon” All areas of study have their own jargon Can you think of any examples?

5. However, the study of science does differ from that of some other subjects because... There is a logical progression or hierarchy of information within each subject It is necessary to learn the basics or foundation of each subject before moving on to more detailed information

6. As an example, think about what you know about blood – if you had to explain blood to an alien where would you start?

7. The study of sciences differs from that of some other subjects because... Science subjects have a large and growing body of facts You need to find out which facts you need to know for the level at which you are studying each year

8. Science lectures are usually “content dense” This means they have a lot of information – a large number of facts Your job when you study is to work out the best way to deal with all these facts Learning everything is not possible It is essential you work out what you need to learn for your current course

9. What can you do to help yourself study science subjects? Being ORGANISED helps Familiarise yourself with your timetable and assessment schedule – use a wall planner or diary Know what you will be learning each week and when and how you will be tested on it

10. What can you do to help yourself study science subjects? Attend all the lectures and be on time Prepare beforehand – make sure you have a copy of the lecture handout or powerpoint if it is available If the tutor expects you to do pre-reading or exercises before class, make time to do this

11. What can you do to help yourself study science subjects? Concentrate on what the tutor is saying during the lecture – they are very experienced and this is your chance to get a really good verbal explanation of the topic Try to follow the lecture on the handout, highlighting points that the tutor stresses and making extra notes to aid your understanding

12. What can you do to help yourself study science subjects? Attend all the laboratory classes and do the practical work yourself Get the recommended textbook and start using it as soon as possible If your course is supported with extra activities and revision exercises on Moodle or the web, use them

13. What can you do to help yourself study science subjects? Find the time to study regularly from the beginning of each semester As a guideline, a 2 hour science lecture should be accompanied by a minimum of 2 hours of effective review/self-directed study in the same week This study ensures you understand what was presented and have clear notes that you will be able to learn later

14. What can you do to help yourself study science subjects? Work on learning the language of science from the very beginning At first this language may seem very foreign and confusing to you e.g. Rachel has rhinitis due hypersensitivity to feline allergens

15. When you study... If your tutor has provided learning outcomes, use them as a checklist for your learning, but remember they are a brief guide only Some facts will need to be memorised (known as rote learning) – these will usually be meanings of new words (definitions), symbols, some abbreviations and maybe formulae or equations – take care with spelling and be accurate with symbols

16. When you study... Use your textbook – read the text to fill in gaps in your understanding – if necessary, make extra notes Avoid any topics that were not mentioned in the lecture The coloured diagrams are much easier to understand – you will find it helpful to add colour to your handouts as well

17. When you study... Look for summaries in your text –these may be bullet points, tables, flow charts or diagrams Better still, prepare your own summaries Convert diagrams into a simple form that you can understand and, if necessary, memorise If you have to do calculations, get plenty of practice e.g. drug calculations

18. Where possible, try to relate the science you are learning to your body Ask yourself: where is this taking place in my body? Why? -what’s the point of this? When does it happen? How does it happen?

19. Use memory aids Relate new info. to things you already know about e.g. the cell is like a factory Organise the information e.g. headings, mind maps Review regularly – e.g. 24 hours, 1 week, 2 weeks, the week before the test Use memory tools (mnemonics) e.g. “Never ever be late mate” Use a variety of learning strategies e.g. draw coloured pictures, discuss, watch YouTube

20. Seek help if you need it Go to any tutorials that are offered Join a study group with fellow class members (Rachel can organise a room for your group) Ask your tutors to clarify areas of confusion (but only after you have studied the topic) Attend SLS workshops if they are offered for your course