Study Tips for Middle School Students

Time Management for School Mornings

Middle school is the perfect time for students to learn to take charge of the morning routine. In addition to getting yourself ready, there are so many tasks to carry out (like packing book bags) and items to remember (like band instruments or lunch money) that careful time management is critical. If students can learn to manage this hectic time, they will be a step ahead of the game! This time management clock for school mornings helps students understand the need to get every task done in a timely manner.

Learning to Be on Time

The foundation for your success begins long before the first book is cracked in the school day. Successful students understand the importance of taking charge of their personal time and space, first and foremost. Once you're out the door, your job is to be punctual and ready for the school day.

Using a Homework Timer

Time management is also important when it comes to getting individual assignments done on time. Big problems can occur when you take too much time on a certain assignment, and then discover you don't have time to finish a big project that's due in the morning. Learn to pace yourself by using a fun homework timer.

Using a Planner

Middle school is the time to start using a planner the right way. Every student can have different needs and preferences when it comes to picking the right planner, and that is the first important step. The next step is to learn to use memory boosters like flags, stars, stickers, and other items to mark upcoming dates. It doesn't do much good to remember a due date the night before—you must place a special marker a week ahead of the due date for best results.

Taking Notes in Math Class

Middle school math lays the groundwork for the algebra concepts you'll encounter over the next few years. It is so important to establish good note-taking skills for your math classes because math is a discipline that you learn in layers. You must fully understand the building blocks you cover in middle school to progress through the more advanced math. Be sure to use multiple approaches for reviewing your math notes.

Learning About Learning Styles

Learning styles are more important for some students that for others, but the one thing that a learning style quiz can tell you is which type of active study strategies might work best for you. You might learn best by reading out loud and listening to recordings (auditory) or by drawing images and outlines of your social studies notes (tactile and visual). The more you act out your notes and readings, the more you'll reinforce the concepts in your brain.

Getting Organized With Color Coding

Sometimes it's just hard to remember which items to take to school in the morning, which to take home with you in the afternoon, and which you should leave in your locker. If you color code your supplies, you might find it easier to remember the right notebooks and supplies when you pack your book bag each time. For example, when you pack your math book for homework before you leave school, you can also remember to pack the blue-coded notebook and blue plastic pouch that holds your pencils and calculator.

Learning to Use the Local Library

Your public library is so much more than a place that contains shelves and shelves of great books. You can learn many skills and develop great study habits right in your library! Some of these are:

• learn to use a computer and word processor
• listen to authors read their books
• check out documentaries
• find help with all your homework questions
• look at fascinating historical pictures of your hometown
• learn to use microfilm machines

There are so many reasons to explore your local library!

Building Your Spelling Skills

Middle school is the time to establish discipline when it comes to spelling words right, proofreading, and learning the difference between many commonly-confused words. If you can concur spelling and vocabulary-building challenges, you are going to soar through high school and college writing activities!

Learning to Concentrate Longer

Have you ever wondered why your mind tends to wander when you're supposed to be reading a book or finishing your math problems? There are several non-medical reasons why you can't seem to concentrate on the task at hand.