IB Bio Study and Testing Strategies

Study Strategies

Re-write notes in colors
Make flashcards with all scientific words
Create a concept map with vocabulary words
Create your own multiple-choice questions
Make a list of topics- for each topics write a paragraph description of it
Draw out diagrams and pictures for each topic
Explain the PowerPoints out loud/to someone else
Use quizlet, or research practice IB questions for a topic
Create summary pages for each topic that includes pictures and diagrams as well as words
Make note of any diagrams/anatomy/pictures you need to know
Practice analyzing data from workbook pages

Test Strategies

Multiple Choice:

-Read carefullythink about what each word means in an answer before selecting it as the answer choice

-Answer EASY questions FIRST

-Eliminate answer choices

-Annotate questions as you read them

-Try to answer the question in your head before selecting the right answer from options

-Be able to explain to yourself why every other answer choice is WRONG

Short-Answer:

-Answer easy questions first!

-Read question carefully and summarize in your head what it is asking

-Write in SCIENTIFIC DETAIL- use as many vocabulary words from class as your can

-Underline your key detailsmake sure you have underline as many details as the question is worth

-Write AS MUCH as you can in AS MUCH detail as possible

-Re-read your answer to make sure it make sense

Test Corrections Procedure:

For multiple-choice questions, write the question number, the answer you put, and the correct answer. Explain why the answer your chose was wrong, and the correct answer is write
DO NOT say the answer is write because that’s what the notes say- explain scientifically why the answer in correct
For short-answer responses, re-write the entire response. Underline portions of your new answer that you did not include in the first response.
Write a paragraph reflection of how you studied (or didn’t) and ways you want to improve your study skills for future assessments.