LEARN WITH VICKY
World Scholar's Cup Resources and Tips
At Vicky's Study Site, test your WSC knowledge and learn to prepare for future rounds!
A QUICK INTRODUCTION
HOW TO TAKE NOTES
Boost your efficiency by 5x by mastering the art of note-taking
Organize your notes in a structured format that suits your learning style. You can use bullet points, headings, or mind maps to make it easier to read.
Engage with the material. Avoid copying information, and instead, write it down in your own words. Summarize key points, and jot down any questions or thoughts that arise while studying. This active approach helps you better understand the material and improve retention.
Highlight key information. Whether you're taking notes by hand or using a Google Doc, it's vital to emphasize important information. This can be by highlighting or underlining key terms, dates, names, and main ideas so that you can quickly identify important points later on.
Include examples and visuals. Whenever a new or challenging concept is first seen, examples are the best way to easily make sense of them. Research other instances where it may be applicable and gain a wider understanding of what you're learning. Visual representations enhance understanding and aid in recall during revision. You can draw diagrams, graphs, or use symbols to represent concepts.
Review, review, review. Consolidate your notes so that only the most crucial information is kept and simple to read. After each study session, spend some time revisiting and summarizing the material covered. This will reinforce your understanding and identify any gaps in your knowledge.
ACTIVITIES
DEBATING
Your guide to becoming a top debater
Research and preparation: Before the competition, make sure to research the topic areas that are likely to come up. Read widely, take notes, and practice formulating arguments and counterarguments. Look for evidence and statistics to back up your points.
Structure your arguments: When presenting your arguments, make sure to structure them clearly and logically. Start with a strong opening statement, followed by supporting evidence, and finish with a clear conclusion that ties everything together. Use signposting language to indicate when you are moving between different points.
Be persuasive: Debating is all about persuading your audience to see things your way. Use powerful language, rhetorical devices, and examples to make your arguments as convincing as possible. Listen carefully to the other team's arguments and try to address their points directly.
Stay calm under pressure: Debating can be stressful, especially when you are under time pressure and facing tough opposition. Stay calm, breathe deeply, and focus on the task at hand.
Practice, practice, practice: The best way to improve your debating skills is to practice as much as possible. Participate in mock debates, watch videos of top debaters in action, and get feedback from coaches and mentors. The more you practice, the more confident and skilled you will become.
SCHOLAR'S BOWL AND CHALLENGE
Scholar's Bowl:
Be familiar with the subject areas: The scholar's bowl covers a wide range of subjects, including history, science, literature, art, and current events. Make sure you have a general understanding of each subject area and are familiar with the major facts and concepts within them.
Practice answering questions quickly: The scholar's bowl is a fast-paced event, with teams racing to answer questions before their opponents. Practice your speed and accuracy by doing practice quizzes or playing trivia kahoots with your team.
Work together as a team: The scholar's bowl is a team event, and it's essential that everyone works together to answer questions. Be prepared to share your knowledge and collaborate with your teammates to solve difficult questions.
Scholar's Challenge:
Read widely: The Scholar's Challenge often covers a broad range of topics, so reading widely can help you build your knowledge and prepare for unexpected questions. Read books, news articles, and other materials on a variety of subjects to expand your knowledge.
Focus on understanding, not memorization: it's important to have a firm grasp of the material rather than to memorize isolated facts.
Pay attention to detail: The scholar's challenge often involves close reading and attention to detail. Read instructions carefully, and double-check your work to avoid simple mistakes.
Time management is key: The scholar's challenge is timed, and it's important to use your time effectively. Don't spend too much time on one question, and make sure to answer as many questions as possible within the allotted time.
COLLABORATIVE WRITING
Tips and Tricks
1- Write A Creative Piece.
Don't you think the judges will get bored and tired of reading traditional essays? Always go the extra mile when writing and create an intriguing story line. Your writing will be noticed. Plus, it's already the 21st century and judging by the writing topics, new, fresh ideas are the way to go.
2- Use Your Time Wisely
You may think that you've got loads of time but don't take it for granted. Plan out beforehand how to spend your time efficiently to maximize your writing. Something else you should never do is rush. You won't do your best if you hurry too much since your best ideas come out last.
3- Choose A Topic You're Passionate About
The best way to let your mind flow with ideas is to write about something you are very enthusiastic about. Let the topic speak to you and make sure you understand completely the prompt.
4- Stay On Topic
You should always stick to your points and never get distracted when writing. Make sure you are clearly following the writing prompt and read every single word in it so you don't miss out on something. Don't lose focus and start writing about another thing not related so keep close attention to the topic.
Best of luck with writing and remember to stand out!