Taking Notes. As in any other college course, you will need to keep up with your reading and the associated activities. It is generally accepted that active forms of learning are more effective than passive forms. For example: merely reading your book (even if you use a highlighter) is a passive approach to studying. It is more effective if, as you read, you take notes on your reading—just as you would take notes on a lecture in class. 

Introductory thoughts. Just before the objectives are stated for each lesson I challenge you to think or react to a situation or a question. Take time to seriously examine these issues. You will connect your own thoughts to the lesson and learn what is presented in the lesson more effectively.  

Rough drafts. Finally, when you are assigned to write a rough draft for my feedback, put your best effort into the message. Keep in mind that it may take several drafts before you are satisfied that a draft is appropriate to send to me. Then, when you get my editorial comments, you will have less to rewrite when you submit your final assignment.