Mid-terms are over. Disappointing Grades? Well, that was yesterday and today is a new day! It’s time to master important study skills to jump start second semester grades. Learn this set of skills until it becomes habit, just like mastering a dance routine or a multi-step sports play. Because these skills are highly effective, it is important to learn them early. Therefore, learn them in elementary school and use the same skills in high school through college.
1. Understand how grades are determined for the second semester
The teacher probably gives grading information at the beginning of the year. It should indicate how much quizzes, tests, homework, participation and projects are worth. Ask if this information is not clear. Even though the second semester is starting, it is important to understand the grading system.
If a grade is not as high as desired, talk with the teacher and ask questions like “What should I do to get a better grade?” or “Why did I get that question wrong?” The answer will give specific suggestions of what to work on.
Parents should be involved because staying after school to work with a teacher and/ or working with a tutor may need to be arranged.
2. Getting ready for better grades in the second semester
- Sit up front which will help concentration if seats are not assigned. However, seats are often assigned. So in that case, if a near-by student is distracting, bring the situation to the attention of the teacher.
- Participation in class is important. It will keep the student engaged. Participation is an opportunity to clarify the right information before a test. And, it helps in understanding the topic. In addition, participating regularly may be a grade booster. It’s win-win.
- Develop a good notebook. Put the day’s current date and new topic at the top of the page. Write examples from the board. Include questions that the teacher asks as well as the correct answer. Always be prepared with enough paper and pencils (with erasers). Highlight or star the important information so it stands out for later studying. The Cornell Note-Taking System is excellent. Reread class notes each night. And, regularly reading the material will help to better remember it.
- Know How to Read a Textbook. First, scan the pages that have been assigned. Notice the titles and subtitles are in bold print. Often, key names and events are highlighted as well. In addition, this gives focus to the reading and points out what is important. Study charts and graphs which provide added information. In the subject notebook, write down the main idea of each section and examples. Reread the section and review the notes. This will improve reading comprehension. Try to put the lesson in your own words. One way to do this is for parents to ask questions. This exercise will demonstrate how clearly the lesson is understood.
3. Organization and time management for the second semester
- Have separate notebooks or folders for each subject. Also, have a place to keep class handouts, returned quizzes and tests for later review.
- Maintain a daily planner. Some schools provide them. Buy a planner if one is not provided. Enter each class’ daily assignments, scheduled quizzes, tests, and projects. The purpose of the planner is to help Plan Ahead. Start studying subjects daily if more than one quiz or test will be on the same day. If a big project is scheduled, break it down into smaller parts and work on each part steadily.
- Homework is an important review of the day’s lesson and must done each day as assigned. Doing homework will further understanding of the material. If something is not clear on the homework, ask the teacher the next day. Getting the correct information is important before a test. Find a place at home to do homework and studying that will allow for the maximum concentration away from distractions. This will help focus and improve remembering the material.
- Study effectively by reviewing the subjects’ notebooks, reviewing the appropriate textbook pages that have already been read, and any study notes or handouts provided by the teacher. Review each subject each night for 10 minutes. It has been proven that long-term retention is improved when studying is done over a longer time period rather than cramming. Cramming can create anxiety. Study in an area that is distraction free. Take study breaks. This approach will improve testing results and help reduce test-taking anxieties.
In conclusion, mastering these skills will improve grades. And, remember: Get help when needed!
4. Resources supporting strong study skills
Cornell Note-Taking System with guidelines
http://admissionsuccess.com/Tips/grades/elementaryschoolgrades.htm
https://www.umassd.edu/dss/resources/students/classroom-strategies/how-to-get-good-grades/