Preparing for a biology class and preparing for any other humanity course is entirely different. As such, you cannot employ the same study strategy you used for an English or history class for biology. The fundamentals are different, hence, different approaches are required. We have lined up some study guides to use when preparing for a biology class. Out of the lots, you can choose the guidelines that fit your situation and can best work for you.
Preparation before class
In preparing for the next day’s class, the best you can do is to read through the topic to be treated. However, how you do it really matters. Here is what to do:
- Sometimes, you may lack the motivation to read long on a topic. The topic may seem not interested enough or your mood at the time wouldn’t permit long reading. Thankfully, most biology course books come with pictures and other illustrations to best explain the topic. Take a view at the pictures accompanying the topic and absorb the concepts behind them. If a picture appears more than once in a chapter, it may be very important, so take note of them when you are doing homework.
- You don’t need to memorize everything you read word-by-word. Pay attention to the main points as you read and note them down. Doing this will limit how much stuff you have to absorb.
- It is obvious that you may come across new words and terms as you read on a topic. Have a list of all such words, and check for their meaning. If you encounter any difficulty, make sure to ask your teacher to explain them during class hours. In most cases, your teacher may also have a list of the same terms and will explain them in class.
- Aside from reading your biology course books, you can read further online or other offline materials. Some lecturers prepare online notes, they share with students, make sure you read them before class while tackling your biology assignment.
What to do during class
As you’ve already read extensively, you become abreast with the topic and on top of issues. However, don’t take words out of your lecturer’s mouth by being all-knowing. Listen carefully to whatever is being taught and take notes when needed. When you are falling short and not able to cope with the speed of the lecturer, just jot down the important points. If you missed out on something, ask for clarification. After class, you can take time to prepare your own notes or copy from a friend.
Also, when taking notes, you don’t need to write everything the teacher says. Normally, some will be just an illustration from him/her to create a better understanding. Instead, write down only the important part of the lecture.
Laboratory sessions
If you are treating an experimental topic, the chances of going to the lab for practical is high. Always take precautions when in the lab and don’t touch chemicals unless you are told to do so.
During a lab session, make sure you understand the details of the project and what you are expected to do. Just like preparing for class, you should prepare adequately before going to the lab. It is best to always work with colleagues to achieve maximum results.
After Class
As already stated, you need to prepare your notes after class from points picked from your lecturer. While doing biology homework, you are able to review whatever was taught in class for better understanding.
In case you didn’t understand anything during lectures, take time to read widely on it. Make use of the biology library and other resources at your disposal. Also, you can seek further explanation from a coursemate with deeper knowledge on the topic.
Preparing for exams
When preparing for a test, don’t follow the masses. Some students prefer to study long hours prior to exams. You shouldn’t follow this norm. Instead, discover a time frame that learning and absorption of knowledge becomes easier for you. As you learn, ask yourself questions likely to appear and answer them accordingly. Create questions from each of the topics you’ve discussed in class and it is highly possible to meet some of these questions in your exams.