Quick Writes – Taking Notes

Ask a group of fourth graders to “take notes” and you’re likely to get one of two responses – blank looks or anxious glances from kids trying to copy down every last word from a book in order to “capture” what they’re taking notes about. Note-taking is a kind of shorthand that requires critical thinking around main ideas. What’s the best way to write as little as possible in order to call to mind big ideas, as well as key details? It’s definitely a skill that needs to be taught. Check out these Daily Quick Writes on note-taking that provide some helpful strategies for kids!