Objective
By the end of this lesson, the student will be able to effectively use the Cornell note-taking method to organize their thoughts on English language grammar, develop strong topic sentences, and construct well-structured introduction and conclusion paragraphs. The student will also learn how to highlight and annotate important information to enhance their writing, reading, listening, and speaking skills.
Materials and Prep
- Paper for note-taking
- Pencil or pen
- Highlighter
- Access to a reading passage or example essay
- Quiet space for focused work
Before the lesson, ensure that the student is familiar with the basic concepts of essay writing and has a reading passage ready for analysis.
Activities
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Introduction to Cornell Notes:
Introduce the Cornell note-taking method by explaining its structure: a narrow left column for keywords and questions, a larger right column for notes, and a summary section at the bottom. Have the student practice creating a Cornell notes template on their paper.
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Reading and Note-Taking:
Provide the student with a short reading passage. As they read, encourage them to take notes in the right column of their Cornell notes. Remind them to highlight key points and annotate margins with their thoughts or questions.
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Crafting Topic Sentences:
After reading, guide the student in identifying the main ideas. Have them write topic sentences for each paragraph they plan to write, using their notes as a reference. Discuss the importance of topic sentences in guiding the reader.
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Writing Introductions and Conclusions:
Teach the student how to write effective introductions and conclusions. Have them draft an introduction that hooks the reader and a conclusion that summarizes their main points. Encourage them to use their Cornell notes to support their writing.
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Peer Review and Feedback:
If possible, conduct a peer review session where the student shares their work with a family member or friend. They can provide feedback based on the clarity of the topic sentences and the effectiveness of the introduction and conclusion.
Talking Points
- "The Cornell note-taking method helps organize your thoughts and makes studying easier."
- "Always start with a clear topic sentence; it sets the stage for your reader."
- "An engaging introduction draws your reader in, while a strong conclusion leaves a lasting impression."
- "Highlighting and annotating important information helps reinforce your understanding and retention."
- "Peer feedback is valuable; it helps you see your work from another perspective."