Homework Helper: Study Skills

Experts say that studying in a group can be more effective than studying alone. Students say it can be more fun, too! Here are a few tips for organizing a study group.

• It often works best to have just three to five people in a study group. That way, each person gets the time to talk and make sure she understands the material.
  
  
• Schedule a few study sessions. Whether studying alone or in a group, a few short sessions are much more useful than one long "cram" session.
  
  
• Having one person act as the leader can help a group to run smoothly. The main goal of the leader is to keep everyone focused on studying so that things don't become too social.
  
  
• Be prepared! A study group is a place to share your understanding of a subject. The other people in the group aren't there to teach you facts you should already know. The more you can offer the group, the more you'll get out of it.

Sticking to an agenda is important. Here's one plan for organizing your group time.

1. First, compare your notes and review old homework. If there is something you have had trouble understanding, write down your questions about it before meeting with your study group.
   
   
2. Next, drill each other on facts you need to memorize. For example, What are the four stages of a butterfly's life cycle? You might want to give each other practice quizzes.
   
   
3. Lastly, take the time to discuss "why" questions. For example, Why do monarch butterflies migrate?

   One way to handle "Why" questions is to make a list of the important ones you will want to review. Then divide the questions among the group. At your next meeting, have each person present a lesson about her questions.