Academic Success: All In The Cards?
Sure they’re always talking about getting a shiny new laptop, but reality is that one of the most important academic tools your kids can have is the humble, low-tech index card. You remember them. Well, they serve as many uses today as they did when you were in school. Maybe even a few more. Try these:
• Learn fractions by creating a memory game. Cut 10 index cards and draw shapes divided into halves, thirds or fourths on one side. On 10 other cards, write the corresponding fractions. Arrange all 20 cards facedown and look for the fractions and shapes that match.
• Organize research papers by writing one fact or idea per index card and arranging the cards in a logical order before drafting the paper. Bibliographies are also easily created by keeping track of sources on index cards.
• Cut cards in half and create flash cards for learning math problems, vocabulary words, formulas, equations, geometric shapes, concepts, foreign language words and phrases, and almost anything else!
• When they’re preparing for a big test, index cards can be a secret weapon. They should put important information on a set of cards so that they can take advantage of study time whenever and wherever it might pop up. Encourage them to review their cards frequently so that the material is always fresh.
• If they think they know an answer, but can’t put it into words, they don’t know it well enough.
• Have them test themselves someplace private so that they can recite answers aloud.
• Studying with a friend from class is another great idea. They can use each other to make sure they are explaining concepts and information accurately.
• Run an index card underneath a line of type while reading to stay focused. It can also be used as a straight edge in a pinch.
• Keep index cards on hand for quickly jotting down ideas, phone messages, tasks and homework assignments.
Who knows, you may even rediscover a few uses for index cards in your own daily routine.
Five Star® Advance® 3" x 5" Index Card Sheets
Five Star® Advance® 3" x 5" Index Card Pocket
Real Simple 3" x 5' Index Card Wheel