FAQS+-+GOOD+GRADES

=HOW TO GET GOOD GRADES IN 10 EASY STEPS=

STEP 1: BELIEVE IN YOURSELF
 * Set academic goals in each of your classes.

STEP 2: BE ORGANIZED
 * Use an assignment notebook or planner.
 * Use three-ring binders for class notes for easy insertion of handouts and missing notes.
 * Use a folder for each class to keep old tests/quizzes, current assignments and homework.
 * Have phone numbers for classmates so you can call if you have a question.
 * Keep your locker and backpack neat so you can quickly and easily find what you need.
 * Get organized before you go to bed to avoid confusion in the morning.

STEP 3: MANAGE YOUR TIME WELL
 * Use class time and study periods in case you need to ask questions/get help.
 * Create your own study plan each day before school ends and stick to it.
 * Use the dayplans provided by the teacher (if available) to read the course material ahead of time.
 * Prepare for sabotage by eliminating interruptions.

STEP 4: BE SUCCESSFUL IN THE CLASSROOM
 * Learn how to adapt to different teachers whether you agree with them or not.
 * Be in school, on time, every day because you miss more than just the notes when away.
 * Be prepared for each class to get the most out of each day.
 * Sit in the front of the class, if possible to insure you pay attention and stay involved.
 * Be aware of your body language/nonverbal behaviour and the signals you are giving.
 * Always do your homework as your mark will drop every time you miss an assignment.
 * Participate in class as this keeps you focused and clarifies content.
 * Be a good group member by doing your share of the work, listening to others and being supportive.
 * Treat others with courtesy and respect and be aware of the tone of your voice.
 * Involve your parents so they can see you are really trying to do well in school.

STEP 5: TAKE GOOD NOTES
 * Be an active listener by thinking about and trying to understand what is said.
 * Take notes during discussions to keep focused.
 * Recognize important information by listening for changes in voice or recording additional notes on the board or overhead.
 * Take notes that are easy to read with dates, page numbers, neat writing, use of symbols or abbreviations, and leaving wide margins for key words or additional detail in discussion.
 * Go over your notes as soon as possible while the information is still fresh to fill in gaps, or record questions to ask the next day.
 * Get the notes if you are absent and immediately put them in the correct location in your notebook.

STEP 6: KNOW HOW TO READ A TEXTBOOK
 * Scan by reading subtitles, words in bold and italic print, summaries, charts, and review questions.
 * Read with a purpose by turning each subtitle into a question and keeping it in mind as you read.
 * Review by scanning the material to check your comprehension. Can you still answer the questions you formed from each subtitle?

STEP 7: STUDY SMART
 * Your study area should be comfortable with a writing surface, good lighting, and all the utensils you need.
 * Get started; don’t put it off until later, don’t make excuses, or wait until you’re “in the mood”. Just do it.
 * Know your learning style. Are you a visual, auditory or kinesthetic learner? Adjust your study accordingly.
 * Organize your study time: make a plan, prioritize your work, break big assignments into smaller parts, allow more time than you need.
 * Review often so you don’t have to cram for a test.
 * Make sure you understand the instructions and follow them exactly.

STEP 8: USE TEST-TAKING STRATEGIES
 * Get off to a good start by having everything you need ready, relax, and read the directions carefully.
 * Develop a plan before you begin answering questions by deciding on the time you will allow yourself for each section. Remember to leave time to check over your answers.
 * Mark the questions you want to return to.
 * Answer multiple choice questions before looking at the answers.
 * Look for key words in True/False questions.
 * With essay questions brainstorm ideas and proofs, organize them in an outline, begin writing legibly and in clear, concise and complete sentences.
 * If you run out of time on a test answer questions in point form for partial credit.
 * Reread all test questions and check your answers to make sure you haven’t made a careless error.
 * Go over all returned tests, correct your mistakes in case the question returns later.
 * Check to make sure the test was graded correctly, and place in your folders for study later.

STEP 9: REDUCE TEST ANXIETY
 * Start studying early.
 * Walk into a test calmly and confidently. Don’t outwit yourself!
 * Relax!!

STEP 10: GET HELP WHEN YOU NEED IT
 * Don’t wait until the last minute to get help.
 * Ask questions in class either during discussions or privately.
 * Approach your teacher for extra help with a list of possible times and dates.
 * Have specific questions prepared in advance.