For example, if they see that the first exam is worth 20% of their final grade, they’ll know that it’s important to do well. [1] X Research source Your syllabus should also include due dates for all assignments and tests. This will allow students the time they need to study in advance. Consider making a syllabus even if it is not common practice in your middle school or high school. It can really help students understand how to succeed in the class.

For example, you might write, “Analyze this poem by Robert Frost. You should discuss the major themes in the poem and devices used. Your paper should be 1-2 pages long. Spelling and grammar will be graded, in addition to the content. The paper is due in class on October 12. ” For an upcoming test you might say, “The exam will be over Chapters 1-4 in your textbook. Focus on the causes of World War II and the role of the U. S. in aiding the allies. ” Giving your students a rubric for all of their graded assignments is a great way to communicate your expectations. With a rubric, your students will know exactly what to focus on, which will make studying easier.

Instead of writing “Unclear” on a student’s paper, write something like “Try to write a stronger thesis statement that explains why you are arguing that Reagan was a great president. Include some supporting examples in your thesis statement. ” If a student asks a question about what you mean by using a good amount of sources on a paper, say something like, “That’s a great question. Thanks for taking the time to ask for clarification. What I meant is that an A paper will cite at least 4 sources. ” Don’t limit your feedback to just tests and assignments. Regularly checking in with your students and letting them know ways they can improve will motivate them to work harder, and it will hold them accountable.

You could say, “You’ll need to spend about 3 hours a week doing the readings and reviewing your notes in order to do well in this class. ” Before a test you could say, “This exam will cover a lot of material. Don’t try to cram! I suggest starting to study at least a week before the test. Try reviewing the material for 20-30 minutes a day. ”

Adjust these questions to be applicable to whatever grade you teach. You might ask middle-school students what their favorite subject is, or what they like to do after school. Then you can talk about how those things relate to your class. [8] X Expert Source Jai FlickerAcademic Tutor Expert Interview. 20 May 2020. You can also talk about smaller, more immediate goals. Try saying, “I know you weren’t happy with your last test grade. What’s your goal for the upcoming exam?” Ask how you can help them achieve those goals.

You can say, “History might not be your passion, but you can learn relevant skills in this class. Critical thinking, writing, and researching are tools that you could use in a variety of careers. ” For a younger student, you could say, “Learning to write a thesis statement in history class can also help you out in your English class. "

You can also hold “virtual office hours” where you are available to chat electronically. You can make time before or after school to help middle and high schoolers.

You can also give students options. For example, they could choose between writing a paper or creating a brief video presentation on the topic. Another idea is to let them choose their own topic. For example, let them choose a book for their project in English class. When you’re developing an assignment, try to include modes of learning for all of the different learning styles, like visual, aural, verbal, and kinesthetic.

You might say, “Wow, Shelly, I can tell you’ve been studying! Your test score improved dramatically from last time!” On a paper you could write, “You’ve done an excellent job citing your sources. ”

In an English class you might say, “I’m so excited that we’re starting to read A Wrinkle in Time today. I fell in love with this book when I was in middle school, and I can’t wait to hear your thoughts!”

For example, if you have a lot of Latino students in your social studies classroom, you could spend time studying Latino history and culture. If you teach math and you’ve noticed a lot of your students talking about a movie they like, you could use characters and scenes from the movie in your word problems.

You could bring snacks to school for the reward, or maybe allow students to listen to music or watch a fun video during class time.

You can say, “The test will cover Chapters 26 and 27. Pay close attention to how the Cold War impacted social issues in the U. S. ” You can also provide a written study guide with key terms and sample questions.

If you think it is appropriate, you can consider giving the student an alternative assignment in place of a traditional exam. You could assign a research paper, for example. Some students do better with verbal tests, so think about offering that as an option, too.

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