The purpose of this exercise is to encourage students to reflect on the class and review and synthesize what they learned before they leave the class. Most classes end when the teacher has finished lecturing. It is an abrupt end causing students to focus on their next class or activity, virtually blocking out the material they have just covered. The next time they look at the material occurs when they start their homework. To have students summarize and synthesize the concepts covered by describing them in their own words.
Teachers can then determine if students have understood the concepts covered in class.
Students review and focus on the most important ideas covered during the class. They practice writing about the class content from their own perspective. Students are asked to articulate what they do not understand. This helps them identify areas for further study and review. Using a nonverbal approach, they can communicate their concerns, identify problems, ask for specific help, explain what is working for them and make suggestions for improving the class process.