Study Helps

 

Since a parent’s role is critical to a student’s academic success. The following information may be helpful to strengthen student academic performance—whether or not a student is struggling.

Study Resources

As with any website, parents should review content before giving students access to the website.

Student Study Tips

  • Organize your class materials. Find a method that works for you.
  • Don’t procrastinate. Do homework early in the day instead of waiting till late at night.
  • Your environment matters. Find a place where you can focus without distractions.
  • Quality over quantity: A focused 15 minutes is much more effective than a distracted hour.
  • Create a plan: List out and prioritize your assignments.
  • Take short breaks: Reward yourself after accomplishments or focused study time.
  • Understand it! Don’t just memorize it.
  • And most importantly, get rid of distractions! (a.k.a. your phone)

Parent Tips

  • Instead of asking “Did you finish your homework?” ask “How are you going to study tonight?” This question implies both the need and the expectation for study and helps the student think through how he or she should plan study time.
  • Studies show that praise for intelligence, like “Good job, you’re so smart,” can result in lower achievement. Instead, give praise for effort—such as “Good job, I can tell how hard you worked on this”—and see grades rise!
  • Check grades regularly, at least once a week—often enough to give praise for a job well done or to help your student change a bad habit quickly.
  • Check for missing work and zeros that have significant impact on your student’s overall grade.
  • Instead of asking “Did you study for your test?” ask “How do you know you’re ready for your test?” This question helps the student realize the value of setting study goals and of planning how to achieve those goals.

Other Resources

  • Teachers: They are more than willing to talk with students outside of class times (during lunch, before or after school).
  • Private Tutors
    • Contact BJU’s Academic Resource Center [phone: (864) 242-5100, ext. 8200] for a list of available tutors. Arrangements regarding time, location and compensation are entirely between parent and tutor. Hint: Request a BJA grad if available.
    • tutor.com
    • Family Focused Tutors
  • Academic Office: They are committed to the success of each student. Don’t hesitate to reach out to learn more about how they can partner with you and your student.