Study Group Plan: Test-taking, End of the Semester, & VACATION!

Materials

Articles

• 50 Ways for College Students to Maximize Summer Break  
• The Psychology of Summer Vacations 

Videos

• What Time Is It (From “High School Musical 2”) 
• The Go-Go’s – Vacation (Official Music Video) 
• Standup Comedy: There’s pressure to enjoy summer
• Nicole’s Summer Playlist (pack with me)
• Wearable Fashion Trends 2022 | Spring Summer 

Vocabulary

• Plagiarism – the act of using someone else’s work or ideas without giving them proper credit Example: He was accused of plagiarism after submitting an essay that contained copied content.
• Indulge – to give in to a desire or pleasure, often excessively Example: She decided to indulge in a spa day to relax and de-stress.
• Hone – to improve or perfect a skill or ability through practice Example: He spent hours each day practicing to hone his basketball skills.
• Stipend – a fixed amount of money paid on a regular basis as salary or allowance Example: The research intern received a stipend for her work in the lab.
• Hands-on – involving active participation and practical experience rather than just theory Example: The engineering course offered students a hands-on learning experience through lab work and projects.
• Cultivate – to nurture and encourage the growth or development of something Example: He spent years cultivating his garden to create a beautiful outdoor space.
• Landmarks – prominent or significant features or events that mark a point in time or place Example: The Eiffel Tower is a famous landmark in Paris that draws millions of visitors each year.
• Maximize – to make the most of something, often by increasing its efficiency or effectiveness Example: The company’s goal was to maximize profits while minimizing expenses.
• Flex – to be adaptable or flexible in one’s approach or methods Example: The manager had to flex her leadership style to suit different team members.
• Initiative – the ability to take action and start something without being prompted or directed by others Example: She showed initiative by coming up with a new marketing campaign for the company.
• Mentor – an experienced and trusted advisor who provides guidance and support to someone less experienced Example: The young entrepreneur sought out a mentor to help her navigate the business world.
• Picturesque – visually attractive, especially in a quaint or charming way Example: The small village was nestled in a picturesque valley surrounded by rolling hills.

Discussion Questions

Test Taking Discussion Questions

1. Are you a ‘good’ test taker?  Do you usually stay calm or get stressed?
   Do you perform well or underperform?
2. How would you describe your test prep style? slow and steady or last-minute cramming?
3. What have been your most memorable test-taking experiences?  Good, Bad, Funny, Tragic, etc.
4. What do you remember about your 수능 or other entrance exam experiences?
5. Did you (or do you still) have any test-taking traditions?  (e.g. special pre-test meal, lucky socks)
6. How important are grades to you (and your family)? Why?
7. How do you feel about grade quota systems? (e.g. 30% A’s, 40% B’s,  30% C’s )
   How would you change it? What do you think is the best (fairest) way to grade students?
8. What kinds of cheating did you see in high school and university? 
9. If you saw a friend cheating on an exam, what would you do?
10. Have you ever been tempted to cheat? How so?  What happened?

End of the Semester

1. How was your semester? (academics, social life, health, romance,  finances)
2. Which classes were your favorite or least favorite?
3. What were the best and worst parts of this class?
4. How are you feeling about finals? Which will be easiest/most difficult?
5. What will you do after your final final?  Any celebrations planned?
6. What else is on your mind these days?

Vacation Questions

1. What are your plans for summer vacation? What are you most looking forward to this summer?
2. What is on your ‘Should Do’ and your ‘Want to Do’ summer lists?
3. What is your ‘best case scenario’ for summer vacation? What’s the best thing that could happen?
4. What specific goals do you have for vacation – financial, academic, social, fitness, other?
5. Do you have any domestic or international travel plans?
6. How do you feel about hot weather?
7. What is your favorite piece of summer clothing? Have you bought anything new?
8. What was the hottest experience of your life?
9. What are your plans for next semester?
10. How are you feeling about Covid these days? Is there anything you won’t do because of Covid concerns?

 

Image Credits:  Image by F1 Digitals from Pixabay

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