Art comes in many mediums and has been studied for centuries.
Pay attention and take good notes first in any Art Appreciation class. Find out what your instructor quizzes on, ask questions and be specific. Pay close attention to dates, places and eras. By finding out exactly what might be asked of you, your notes will be easier to take and it will be easier to study for tests. Don't let the wealth of information in this class overwhelm you. The trick to succeeding is in the planning and organization of that information.
Instructions
Notes
1. Taking good notes in any class is the first key to success.
Take accurate notes in class, as they will be your reference guide. Include important information such as names, dates, and places, as well as a few distinguishing characteristics of each piece of artwork to help you to remember it more clearly.
2. Index cards can be a great studying tool.
Use the blank index cards to make study cards. Put the title of a piece of artwork from your notes on the side of the card without lines.
3. Note cards can organize information for easier review.
On the other side of the index card, write the artist's name, the year and/or time period, and its medium. Also write down a few facts you recorded in your notes to help you remember what makes it unique.
4. Don't spend time digging through books, use your own notes.
Memorize the note cards and the information you have about each work of art. Quiz yourself by trying to recall the information on the back of the card while looking only at the title side. Recall the facts out loud to yourself, then flip the card over to double check your answers.
5. Studying in groups can be a positive learning tool.
Go to any optional review study sessions your instructor has available, as these tend to cover the information that will most likely be on the exam. Make sure to double check your notes for correct information. Your note cards can be useful for study groups as well.
