Study Skills

 

 There is a huge difference between a teacher in the secondary syllabus (a content expert) and a study skills expert for secondary students. I am a study skills expert and I want to provide you with 5 basic methods of study, justify and provide examples on how they can be accomplished. You can do this, as parents, if you have the know-how of the intricacies of teaching. Some of us are teachers whose expert area is sharing the content of a syllabus. Others of us who have further training, have the know-how of working with effective study and writing skills.

1. Active reading - This involves actively engaging with the material being studied by underlining, annotating, and summarizing key points. This helps students retain information and better understand the material. For example, a student can take notes and summarize important sections of their textbook to help them better understand the material.

2. Flashcards - This is an effective way for students to memorize information, especially for subjects like vocabulary or formulas. For example, a student can create flashcards with vocabulary words on one side and definitions on the other to help them memorize the words.

3. Practice problems - Practicing problems helps students solidify their understanding of a subject and identify any areas they may need to focus on. For example, a math student can practice solving problems from their textbook or homework to become more confident in their math skills.

4. Group study - This is a great way for students to collaborate, share ideas, and learn from one another. For example, a group of students can study together for an upcoming test and quiz each other on the material.

5. Regular breaks - Taking regular breaks helps students avoid burnout and stay focused during study sessions. For example, a student can study for 50 minutes and then take a 10-minute break to clear their mind before returning to studying.                                                                                   

These methods can be tailored to fit the individual needs of each student and can be used in combination with one another for even greater results. Encourage your child to find what works best for them and make studying a consistent part of their routine.

If a secondary student is aiming to score A's, they can follow these additional tips to maximize their study efforts:

1. Create a study schedule - This helps students stay on track and ensures that they allocate enough time for each subject. For example, a student can create a weekly study schedule that includes dedicated blocks of time for each of their subjects.

2. Utilize past exams and papers - Reviewing past exams and papers can provide insight into the types of questions that are likely to be on future exams. For example, a history student can use previous exams to understand what topics their teacher focuses on and what types of questions they ask.

3. Seek help from teachers or tutors - Teachers and tutors who are expert in the area of study skills not just content, will be able to train students on exam writing techniques. All exams have a specific grading criteria which require different writing styles. An expert tutor is one who know about these styles and can explicitly teach it to their students.