Evaluating study skills: questions to ask yourself and your student
Consider the following questions, adjusting them based on your child’s age and grade level.
Does the student have a good place to study at home?
This means a quiet place (without television, phone, computer games, or Internet) with a desk or table, chair, good lighting, books, supplies, clock, etc. Until a child demonstrates that he focuses well and can complete homework and study tasks independently, this study place functions best when it is also monitored by parents.
Does the student have a plan for study time?
Students need to have a plan—a goal or goals regarding what needs to be accomplished during study time. They also need to start early and then take short breaks during the study time in order to be refreshed. The length of a study session should be adjusted in an age-appropriate way. Even for high school students, taking a short break every 20 to 30 minutes is usually best.
Does the student work ahead?
Daily review of material, rather than cramming, is the best way to prepare for tests. Long-term assignments are better accomplished by breaking them into parts and working on them little by little for several weeks.
Links to online study helps can be found here.