15 Ways to Study Alone (and with Partners)

(Reminder: We already have posts on general studying tips and preparing for tests in particular! We also have a post on how to get organized.)

As we gradually prepare for midterm exams (and final exams later in the year), many students will choose to begin studying soon. However, the reality is that most students learn and study differently, so the exact action steps to take will vary by BOTH the student and the content area.

Below is a list of suggested action steps to take in the coming weeks. (Students: You may need to try several of them to find the best combination of study methods for you!)

Getting Organized for Midterm Exams (Checklist)

(Reminder: We have past blog posts about how to study for and take a test/exam!)

This week, the midterm exam schedule will be sent home in Friday folders. In addition, in the coming weeks, most of the content area teachers will be distributing study guides and other resources to begin preparing for January’s tests.

On one hand, there’s no one “right” answer regarding how students should organize themselves for exams. However, there are commonly-used strategies that work for most students, which are listed below.

Students: Feel free to print this checklist and go through all the steps!

Tips to Prepare for Exams, Tests, and Quizzes

In a previous post, Mr. Mazon and Mrs. Hardin shared study skills and test-taking tips to help students prepare for assessments like quizzes, tests, or exams. 

We also asked other students and teachers for their best advice in a survey, and here’s what they said.

January Student-Led Conferences Preview

The middle school’s next student-led conferences are taking place this Wednesday, January 27th. Here’s a quick preview of what you can expect to see there.

First, your child will pick up his or her folder from the homeroom teacher, and families will be welcome to choose a table in any of the middle school classrooms. (We have even more rooms reserved this time, so there should be plenty of space to spread out and preserve some privacy for your conversation!)

During the conference, teachers will be available to answer questions, BUT your child will be the star of the show! He or she will present the following information to you...

Dress Code Basics (Or, What NOT to Wear)

At this point in the school year, it's common for some of us to need a haircut, need to bring down a hemline, or need a little reminder of other dress code policies.

Check out the latest episode of What NOT to Wear, filmed with TV hosts Stacey and Clinton and two "new students", Chad and Brenda, at St. Brigid of Kildare!

Tips for Pacing (and Finishing) AR Books

Do you (or your child) have trouble meeting a point goal or finishing books in a timely manner?

Check out this 7-minute video from Mrs. Hardin and Ms. Chiavacci about using a pacing bookmark to help optimize your reading. It also contains helpful guidelines about how many fiction and non-fiction books should be read per month or per quarter...

Studying & Test-Taking Skills: Tips to Prepare for a Test (or Exam)

If you (or your child) could use assistance with study skills, preparing for a test, or even test-taking strategies, check out the two videos below.

Though these videos are primarily for students, parents are welcome to view them for ideas as well.

#1: Study Skills
Start with this 11-minute video by Mr. Mazon. It has tips that apply to ANY academic test or quiz, but are particularly timely for midterm and final exams.