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School can be quite challenging, but what should you do when you feel like you are riding the struggle bus?  Well, persistence pays off.   Try out these study skills to be more persistent:

Be attentive and ask questions during class

This is especially helpful if you don’t understand something.  There are probably other students who have the same or similar questions.  Your job is to gain understanding; you won’t know if you don’t ask.

Ask if you can come before or after school for extra help

Check your teachers’ syllabi for available times.  Most teachers are in their rooms early and are typically at school until at least 3:15 p.m.  Always ask because sometimes there are meetings that teachers must attend, however, they are happy to schedule something convenient for you both.

Attend a tutoring session

Groups like National Honor Society, National Spanish Honor Society, or National Latin Honor Society offer tutoring sessions each week. Regardless of what organization is hosting tutoring, any student can get help in any subject.  Our student tutors are top-notch, and if they don’t know something, they will work to make sure you get the correct information you need.

Work with a friend who is doing well in the class

Ask a friend about how he/she is meeting success in the class.  Not only will this help you, but it will help your friend.  Explaining something that you have learned to someone else helps to cement that knowledge for yourself.  Additionally, sometimes a student might have a catchy way to remember something that will help you.

Ask members of your Family Room for assistance

Every Tuesday is Academic Day in Family Room.  This time is for checking grades, working on assignments, and asking questions.  Your Captain will likely know exactly who in family room can help you with your questions.

Use Google to find a video that explains a difficult concept

There are many fabulous sites that help reinforce classroom concepts.  Your teacher can probably also direct you to some of these types of resources.

Attempt (and complete) all of your homework/classwork

Finish your assignments even if you don’t think you understand.  Sometimes you will find that you learned more than you thought during class, and when you do the assignment, the learning will show up.  

Study a little bit each night

Studying is a great way to retain knowledge even if you don’t have a written assignment.   Students often think they don’t need to do anything for homework if there is not a specific written assignment given, but the truth is that spending 10-15 minutes each night reviewing vocabulary, re-writing notes, using Quizlet, or having someone at home ask you questions are all great ways to review.  Speak positive words about yourself in your head.  You are capable of learning. You are smart.  Focus on positivity.