During counseling session or teacher conference, if the student is struggling with note taking and is not prepared for class, quizzes, and tests, I suggest handing the Test Notes document to the student and requesting detailed notes be taken during class. Show the student how to add key points on the left and draw a simple symbol or picture on the right to coincide with each important note.

I suggest helping the student to organize notes by period/subject as well and reiterating the importance of studying after school. One method I used was to show students a three-ring binder with color-coded folders (one folder per subject). I then modeled how to place notes in the appropriate folder allowing for efficiency in studying, finding documents, and turning work in on time.