As the end of the school year approaches, many students are getting extra serious to prepare for upcoming exams. How can families support their children in building strong study habits?
What are students preparing for?
Students in advanced placement classes are preparing for their AP exams. This is their opportunity to showcase their learning and potentially earn collegiate credit based upon their scores. In many courses, the higher the score, the more credits they earn, so there’s a lot on the line.
We’re also preparing for the GSA, PSAT, and SAT assessments. These are the “state tests” and measure student learning over the course of the year.
In addition to the 11th grade SAT that students take as part of their school assessments, many are also taking other college entrance exams like the ACT which is also used for college admission and scholarships.
At the end of the year, they may have finals at the high schools. These are comprehensive exams that ask students to show off what they’ve learned throughout the year.
How can families help?
Be aware of what your child is preparing to take.
Utilize the study tools provided by your child's teachers.
Help them maintain a social and event calendar that leaves room for study time.
Keep grab and go snacks nearby.
Protect their sleep.
Help them build their study skills.
What does building strong study skills entail?
Studying itself is a skill that requires some education and practice to do well. Just like we aren’t born knowing how to ride a bike, most of us aren’t born knowing how to review material and study well. We have to learn what strategies exist, find the ones that work best for us, and practice using them to improve.
Check out this video from TED-Ed about which study skills work best and why:
Based on the video, consider the following best practices:
Test yourself. Flashcards and quizzing yourself are most effective.
Embrace mistakes. They actually help you learn!
Mix up your topics during study sessions. This strengthens recall and memory.
Space out study sessions. The research suggests that rest and sleep help cement your learning.
For more specific guidance, reach out to your child's teacher. We are all committed to your child's success and ready to help!