Mr. Hyman's Virtual Media Center

During the New York State ELA Test, students will encounter a listening piece.  During the listening piece, students are encouraged to take detailed notes, as the passage will not appear on their test - students can only refer to their notes in order to answer the questions (2 short responses and 1 long response in an essay form).

Grades 3-6 listen to a story (usually a folktale or fable) and take notes the second time that it is read to them.  During the first read, they just sit back and listen to the story.  6th graders are allowed to take notes during both reads...usually because the story in sixth grade is a bit longer and more involved. 

Nevertheless, taking notes and understanding them is an important life skill.

About the Recording

During technology, Mr. Hyman reads a listening piece to all classes in grades 3-6 to help them prepare for the listening section of the ELA test.  Along with a SMART Board lesson on 'How To Take Good Notes', students hear the listening piece and then try to answer questions based on their notes.  Rabbit And Tiger is an example of one of the listening pieces that is read.

How To Take Good Notes: 

• Listen carefully and write down key words and phrases only.
• Create a list (shopping list)
• Jot down the character(s) and their traits.
• Use symbols.
• Use abbreviations.
• Use the 5 W's
• Highlight the setting.
• Note the character's problem that he encounters and the solution.
• Draw or sketch a picture.
• Use a Story Map (or any graphic organizer that you find helpful) to plug in important information.
• Note as many details as you can.
• NEVER TRY TO WRITE DOWN ANYTHING WORD-FOR-WORD...IT JUST WASTES TIME AND YOU'LL MISS A LOT OF THE STORY!

Visit Links Learning Audio Stories for more read-a-louds to help you practice taking good notes.