Kicking the New School Year Off with a Strong Start

Summer break is over, and class is back in session. While you may be sad that your carefree summer schedule has come to an end, it can be exciting to get to see your friends again, learn and try new things, and challenge your mind. But it can be a big transition to get back into the mindset of doing homework and studying. Here are a few ways you can start the school year off on a positive note.

Get Organized

Make sure you have all of the supplies you’ll need for the start of school. Color code and label your notebooks and folders for each class so that they are easy to identify. Keep each course separate so your notes and papers don’t get mixed up. Load up your pencil pouch with pencils, pens, highlighters, erasers, and sticky notes, and pack some extra batteries for your calculator just in case. As you go through the day, jot down additional supplies you want to pick up.

Create a designated study space at home where you can focus and do your work. Have additional materials here for marking up your notes, making flashcards, and working on projects. It can be helpful to have a whiteboard where you can track your assignments and prioritize what needs to be done.

Take Good Notes

Get into the habit of being thorough in your note taking and finding a method that works for you. You might want to try different organizers and formats until you find something that you will be consistent with using. Make it a point to write down assignments in your planner at the end of each class so nothing gets overlooked. If you start this right from the beginning of the year, it will eventually become routine and something you do automatically.

Review Materials

The first several days of class are often spent reviewing information you previously learned. Go back look through notes from last year if you still have them or spend time going over material from that day’s class. Refreshing your memory and brushing up on skills can help you be better prepared for learning new information and feel less like you’re falling behind.

Connect with Friends

Chances are, you know at least one or two people in each of your classes. Exchange phone numbers or emails so that you can ask them about homework, assignments, upcoming tests, or anything you are unsure about. If you are absent, you can ask them to share their notes and vice versa.

Stay Engaged

Pick a seat where you are able to pay attention and clearly see the board. Listen carefully when the teacher is going over the syllabus or talking about what you can expect this year. Make it a goal to be an active participant, asking questions and volunteering answers. This can help you reinforce your understanding and focus more on the content to minimize distractions.

Ask for Help

Don’t be afraid to ask your teacher for clarification or extra help. If you know already that one of your classes is going to be challenging, be proactive in seeking support through tutoring. At Crafting Scholars, we work with you to develop a customized learning plan that closes gaps in understanding, reinforces core concepts, and explains new content in a way that makes sense to you. We can also help you improve your note taking, study skills, test taking strategies, and more. Contact us today to reserve your spot and feel more confident about the new school year.

Originally published at https://craftingscholars.com on August 7, 2024.