For
Rising 9th Grade Students:
Launch
to High School
By Carol C. Wood / Owner &
College Admissions Process Counselor
Total Learning Concepts, Inc.
So, you’re a rising 9th grader, your first year of
high school! As you begin your high school career, you will adjust to a new
building, attend school as the youngest, meet lots of new people, acclimate to
the expectations of high school teachers, have an array of clubs and activities
in which to participate and make LOTS of new friends! How exciting!
As high school begins, it is important to recognize that
every course grade you earn is likely a determining factor for your future
college and career plans. And, there are
many tasks to complete as you begin your high school journey in preparation for
the college admissions process.
Let’s start first with you utilizing the most effective and
efficient study strategies. Following are
just a few study tips as you begin high school:
- Attend all classes and be on
time. Only an emergency or illness
should cause you to miss class.
- Select a seat in the classroom
where you can pay close attention to the teacher’s instruction and
directions. If the student next to
you caused distraction, find another place to sit or privately ask the
teacher to be moved.
- Know each teacher’s course
website where he or she posts homework assignments, projects, due dates,
test dates, etc. You are
responsible to keep up with each course and teacher’s expectations.
- Consistently use only one
agenda; either electronic or paper, in which you notate due dates, test
dates, activities, etc.
- Take detailed, legible class and
study notes. If you are absent from
school, ask a classmate for a copy of his or her notes.
- Find a study buddy for classes
which present you the most challenge.
Ideally, this person is another responsible student like you!
- Select a study space at home in
which you can concentrate and remain focused.
- Exhibit good management of your
own behaviors by turning all forms of technology OFF while studying. Technology time-out is necessary for quality
learning time!
- Read assignments thoroughly and
re-read when necessary to fully grasp the content.
- Do all homework assigned and
MORE by drilling and practicing each day’s class material presented by your
teachers. In other words, master a
little at a time, rather than cramming in weeks of material in one night
when preparing for a major test.
For additional study skills tips and strategies or for
recommendations in the College Admissions Process, you may contact me on
770-381-5958 or carol@totallearningconcepts.com.
Have a fabulous start to high school!
