SMARTWAY CLASSES

"A.S.P.I.R.E." A Study System

Text of the A.S.P.I.R.E. exercise:

A: Approach/attitude/arrange

·         Approach your studies with a positive attitude

·         Arrange your schedule to eliminate distractions

S: Select/survey/scan

·         Select a reasonable chunk of material to study

·         Survey the headings, graphics, pre- and post questions to get an overview

·         Scan the text for keywords and vocabulary: mark what you don’t understand

P: Piece together the parts:

·         Put aside your books and notes

·         Piece together what you've studied,either alone, with a study pal or group:
summarize what you understand.

I: Investigate/inquire/inspect:

·         Investigate alternative sources of information you can refer to:
other text books, websites, experts, tutors, etc.

·         Inquire from support professionals (academic support, librarians, tutors, teachers, experts,) and other resources for assistance

·         Inspect what you did not understand.

R: Reexamine/reflect/relay
Reexamine the content | Reflect on the material | Relay understanding

·         Reexamine:
What questions are there yet to ask? Is there something I am missing?

·         Reflect:
How can I apply this to my project? Is there a new application for it?

·         Relay:
Can I explain this to my fellow students? Will they understand it better if I do?

E: Evaluate/examine/explore:

·         Evaluate your grades on tests and tasks: look for a pattern

·         Examine your progress: toward achieving your goals

·         Explore options: with a teacher, support professional, tutor, parent if you are not satisfied.