How can I get myself to concentrate and comprehend in class?

Question

One thing I've noticed is that I really have a hard time comprehending concepts and what is being taught in class. I struggle a lot of the time because I don't understand the material. And even worse, sometimes when I think I understand the material very well and get back test results, I find out that I really did not know the material as well as I thought I did. What can I do in class to help me concentrate and understand what is being taught better?

Answer 1

Well, my answer might not be the best but I'm giving same way. When in class, if you are not sure of a the topic or material, just ask the teacher and make sure that when leaving you understand. When you go home, do a little revision of what was taught that day, and probably you can do some studying under music.

Answer 2

Remember, your brain is like a sponge. You can only absorb so much at once. The best thing to do is to make yourself RELAX. Most problems like this have to do with trying to think too much and concentrate way too hard so it seems like nothing ever sinks in your brain.
Use the 80/20 rule which states that you'll use 80% of your resources to focus on the 20% that is most important. Cut through the useless stuff in class and figure which is absolutely most important and study in short, energetic and clear-headed bursts, give yourself a rest a go over it all in your head and then go back and review. Study whatever didn't stick the first time around and repeat. Sometimes you remember more by just skimming over stuff rather than trying force it all in word for word.

Answer 3

That's frustrating. I teach grade 9 science and what you are describing is quite common. I have students (top, average and low) who come by after school for a "10 minute clairification" every once in a while and a few are regulars. It's a pretty informal extra-help session. The one-on-one or small group seems to help and I respect that they are taking responsibility and giving up their time to come in for help. That being said, I have to give up extra time too, so if you do go this route, don't screw around in class and then go ask for help. You have nothing to lose but a bit of your time.

Answer 4

The most important thing is to take notes. You can sit near a chalkboard if it's being written down or somewhere near the teacher to make sure you hear and understand. Keep the notes together and review them regulary. If you wrote them really fast during the lesson, if some are not quite neat and organised, rewrite them. Graphic organisers work really well for taking notes.

Answer 5

First take notes on paper, really good ones. Then when you get home Take a notebook for that subject and rewrite the notes on another piece of paper and then again in the notebook. After writing the information down three times you should remember it. Plus you are visually seeing it three times and it's getting into your head and brain three times. The notebook should be kept neat and orderly. Use this for all subjects that takes concentration and memory.

Answer 6

My answer would vary somewhat depending on your age. IF possible, sit near where the teacher lectures (usually the front of the room). Make sure you ask questions about anything you are not sure about in the homework, or classwork. Ask your teacher for a study guide, they are often in textbooks if your teacher doesn't have one. Good teachers should give them. Practice using the study guide. IF you think extra time would help you on a test, ask for it. You might have to come after school to do it.

Answer 7

i know this is prescribed to EVERYONE for minor reasons but ritalin is a drug hat can help you concentrate if you have add or add or adhd