Planning
Have the students plan for a test atleast a week in advance and prepare them for it.
Rachel,
If you can segment the content into mini-units where you present a key concept, give application and then move to the next concept you will be able to keep the students engaged at a higher level. You might want to prepare and give students guided notes where you provide an outline of the lessons with the key concepts listed and highlighted. When the students go over the material as you present it they can write in the supporting information for each concept. This will reduce the busy work but keep them on target.
Gary
I understand the concept that ones brain can only comprehend a certain amount of information in a short period of time. I utilized the above idea of preparring for an upcoming exam one week prior when I was in school. What are some suggestions when teaching a course that covers at least a chapter per class meeting with an exam each week. I struggle with finding a balance in giving assignments and having quizes when we are covering so much material at a fast pace. I want assignments and quizes to premote learning, however I sometimes feel just the opposite occurs.
Student need to understand that your brain can only recieve so much information at one time. The longer you study material over time the more you understand.
