Helping students help themselves!

Study smarter, not harder!
Ashbrook High School

It is very common to tell students to study harder, but what does that mean?  For many students, this is an oversimplification.  It is not a matter of studying harder, but rather realizing the need to change the way in which they study.

We, at Ashbrook, hope this quick reference card will help both parents and students rethink habits related to study.  Most of these suggestions can be easily accomplished with little effort, but some will require students to rethink their study habits.  This information was taken from I Don't Get It!, by Judy Tilton Brunner (@JudyBrunner).

• The best time to study is immediately after school.
• Do not wait to be "in the mood" to study.
• Be in the habit of studying at a set time and location.
• Sit at a table with a chair, if possible; do not study in bed.
• Learn vocabulary words.
• Read directions carefully.
• Use flash cards, vocabulary cards, and term cards.  This is an easy way to self-quiz.
• When studying for a test, anticipate possible questions.
• Ask your teacher, "How do you recommend I study for this quiz/test?"; Ask what type of items will be on the assessment: True/False, multiple choice, essay, short answer...
• Resist doodling on your notes.  Drawing unrelated pictures can be distracting and makes it difficult to actively listen.
• Read the questions prior to beginning to read a text.
• Frequently review the material from class.  Start studying for the test on the first day of a unit or chapter.
• If words are in bold or italicized, there is a reason.
• When taking a test, complete the easier questions first.  This builds confidence and may provide hints for more difficult questions.
• On an essay prompt, do not leave any question unanswered.  A blank = 0.  Write something.
• Always copy important notes from the board.  If it is important enough to display to the class, then assume you will see it again on a test.
• Avoid procrastination and keep a personal calendar.
• Remain positive regarding your learning and ask for help when you need it.

This was created by the faculty of Ashbrook High School to assist students and parents on developing study habits.  The information was provided in notecard-form on the Parent-Teacher Conference Day.