Students Report Improved Test Scores While Chewing Gum (NAPSA)—Finding a test-taking edge may be as easy as reaching for a stick of gum, according to students in an introductory marketing class at Cornell University who were given Wrigley’s 5" gum by their professor. A nonscientific, informal survey of the 591 students found that those who reported chewing gum during the exam received a mean score of 90; students who chewed the whole pack of 5 gum before the exam reported a mean score of 86; while those who chewed no gum atall reported a meanscore of60. “When we announcedthe findings of the informal survey, you could literally hear a gasp from the class,” said Edward McLaugh- Student Tip That Sticks—Finding a test-taking edge may be as easy as reaching for a stick of gum. ment of Applied Economics and Management (AEM), hometo Cor- students can more effectively study and take tests, including lin, R.G. Tobin Professor of Marketing in the university’s Departnell’s undergraduate business pro- gram. “While what we found is anecdotal rather than scientific, | have no doubt that some of these students are going to start chew- ing gum during every exam.” Focus, Concentration and Stress Relief More and more teachers have reversed traditional policies against chewing gum and are now encouraging students to chew gum during tests to help increase focus and concentration. In fact, a 2002 study published in Appetite showed chewing gum appeared to improve people’s ability to learn, retain and retrieve information. Further, a 2006 study conducted on behalf of the Wrigley Science Institute showed that gum chewers were more calm andrelaxed in dealing with life’s everyday stress when they chewed gum. Tips for Test-Taking Success There are a number of ways these suggestions from The Princeton Review, a leading provider of test preparation, educational support and college admission services: Pick a Spot. Designate a spe- cific area for homework and studying, making sure the area is well lit with few distractions. Chew Gum. The gum experts at Wrigley recommend chewing gum during studying and testtaking to help improve focus and concentration and help relieve stress. Makeit Personal. Create personalized study aids to focus the study session, such as a notebook listing homework assignments, a timeline of important dates and flashcards for studying. Retreat. After exams are over, relax and regroup. For more information about the benefits of chewing gum, visit Wwww.gumisgood.com.
