Valuable Tools for Learning: The Post-it Note – Part I

The Post-it note is a simple piece of paper with an adhesive strip on one side, designed primarily to be stuck to an object or surface and easily removed when deemed necessary. Most often, these multi-purpose, inexpensive, and simple-to-use tools are used for day-to-day reminders. However, this modest resource is just as effective as the most trailblazing technology. Sticky notes can have a high impact on learning and retaining information. The reason is because these small-sized notes make the process of learning more visible for both students and teachers.

Due to the size of these notes, they, in a way, force students to be more selective, to synthesize their thoughts, and to use succinct language in writing their observations and analyses. There is simply not as much space on a sticky note as there are on pages of written notes.

Even with its onslaught of creative coloring and size options, the basic post-it note still functions as an effective tool for teaching and learning. It can be used as an effective literary strategy when studying vocabulary. When reading and identifying words in context, students can write down key vocabulary that are specific to the subject. As students encounter important subject specific words, they can jot these on their sticky notes, gradually recording and building up a collection of the key vocabulary. Further, these notes can be grouped into larger themes or topics encountered throughout the text.

Post-its are also great as a useful tool for brainstorming activities. Sticky notes can be organized in a way to systematize and categorize students’ collective ideas. Since they can be easily moved around, teachers and students can arrange, rearrange, and group post-it ideas based on what they have previously learned, or new ideas that can be prioritized based on importance or relevance.

Don’t dismiss the value in the little sticky post-it note! Stay tuned for additional ways you can encourage your child to use sticky post-it notes to enhance their learning in next week’s blog post.

Stop by the Mill Creek Academy office to pick up a pack of post-it notes for your child today! First come, first serve while supplies last – we have plenty of post-it notes to share!