Strategies for Success  (Mr. Philemon Clarke, AP)

Students in all grades, including Middle School and High School must develop the following skills and strategies to achieve success in school.

Time Management
Although there are just 24 hours in each day, what you do with that time makes all the difference.  Students spend about seven (7) hours in school each day so scheduling the remaining 17 hours including ‘free’ time is most important.  Use your daily planner, which should be kept in your bag, to schedule time to study and do homework.  To get the most out of each day, you must manage your time wisely.  

Good Study Habits
To develop good study habits you must practice the following basics.

• Always be prepared for class, and attend classes regularly.  Do Not Cut Class!
• Complete assignments thoroughly and in a timely manner.
• Review your notes daily rather than cram for tests the night before.
• Set aside quiet time each day for study -- even if you don't have homework or a test the next day!

Focus in Class
Always listen to your teacher and concentrate on the lesson.  Class time should not be used to socialize, chat or play with friends.  Stay focused and make sure that you understand the lesson.  If something is not clear, ask questions.

Good Note-Taking
Even though you can't possibly write down everything the teacher says, since we talk at a much faster rate than we write, you do need to write down the important material. Be sure to validate yourself after a test by going back over your notes to see if your notes contained the answers to questions asked on the test. If not, you need to ask to see a classmate's notes or check with the teacher for help on improving your note-taking.

Complete Homework Assignments
Teachers assign homework for a reason.  Homework gives you the valuable practice needed to master the skills and material learned in class.  Put your homework to good use. Remember, you'll only get out of it what you put into it!

Organizational Skills
Keeping yourself organized will save you valuable time and allow you to do everything you need to do. Remember: "A place for everything and everything in its place." Keep all your study materials (calculator, planner, books, notebooks, laptop, etc.) in one convenient location.

Motivation
You need to be motivated to learn and work hard, whether or not you like a specific subject or teacher. Self-motivation can be extremely important when you aren't particularly excited about a class. If you must, view it as an obstacle you must overcome. Then, set your mind to it and do it -- no excuses. Success is up to you!