Studying - Students who study and do school work outside of school will have greater levels of achievement than those students who do not. Good study habits will only be developed with good parent support. One of the most important factors in learning is repeated practice and preparation. A recent research article indicated that if students wanted to really learn something, they needed to practice it at least 24 times. Studying and homework are important aspects of the development of students, and parents should follow these minimum guidelines in helping their child be successful in middle school and preparing for high school.
- Students should study at least five nights a week. They should study Monday through Thursday, and at least one time between Friday and Sunday.
- The amount of daily study time should be a factor of 10 minutes times the students' grade. Sixth graders should study 60 minutes; seventh graders should study 70 minutes, and eighth graders 80 minutes.
- Studying includes both a general review of class work and materials, organization, and homework.
- Parents should supply a quiet space for students to study without interruption.
- Parents are encouraged to help students with homework. They should also supply structure, materials, and encouragement for their child.
- If children need help in completing their homework, the parents should help arrange a meeting with their children and the classroom teacher for extra help. Parents can contact the school at 436-1210 and ask for their child’s teacher or email the teacher directly.
- Study Time must include the following components to be Successful
- Parents and child review the child’s planner and school materials to determine what must be accomplished during study time and if the child has the correct materials. If children are missing materials, please contact the school immediately to determine if access is still available to student lockers.
- The first priority is for children to complete homework assignments and tasks required to take part in classes the following day.
- The second priority is for children to review that day’s activities in class to make sure they still understand them. If they don’t understand or remember activities or information from class, they should formulate questions to ask their teachers the next day.
- At the completion of Study Time, parents and child should review what was accomplished during study time, make a plan for any unfinished work, and rehearse any questions the child has for their teacher to make sure they develop a deeper understanding of the material.
- Materials should be organized and placed so they will not be missed as the child leaves for school the next morning.
- A place at school is available most days after school for students to complete all of their study time requirements. Guided Study runs Monday through Thursday, with a few exceptions, which are posted on the calendar and in newsletters. A certificated teacher is on hand to help students complete their studying, organizing, and homework.
- If students are routinely unable to complete study time requirements, do not complete study time requirements, or cannot complete them within the time limits described, parents are encouraged to contact their child’s counselor immediately. Failure to contact the school about problems with studying could have significant impact on a child progress through middle school and beyond.