3 Ways to make better grades.

April 11, 2022

I'm sure many of you read the title and peaked your interest to figure out exactly what I would list here. I picture maybe your child doesn't have the best time management skills and lack organization. Back when I was in school, I too struggled in this department. From loose papers in my bookbag from missing deadlines on assignments and tests. Well if any of this applies to them, then this is the blog for you! I am going to share 3 simple hacks that can get your child on the right track and help them make better grades in school. 

1.) Create a flexible routine

This goes without saying, but still needs to be said. Being organized in school translates to all different areas in their life as well. I have made previous blogs tackling this subject (Insert Blog Here), but this time I am going to share concrete details that I have not mentioned before. Parents you can do your part in this as well! Don't leave it entirely up to your child and get an unpleasant surprise about their grade mid/end of the semester. Invest in a planner and help map out their assignments/homework for the semester and schedule study and playtime throughout the week. Plan the study time for each day of the week and color code classes by subjects for differentiation. Be sure to include extra-curricular activities as well. 

2.) Develop a rapport with the teacher

This may sound silly, but a consistent routine is necessary for your child, especially at that age. Have access to their student portal and check in with them weekly about missing assignments/low grades and follow up with the teacher if necessary. The teacher can pin point exactly where your student is struggling and give concrete advice on what math skills they need to work on. This way you can take the appropriate steps where needed. Keep in mind, you were once in High School, and you know how overwhelming it can be. Still give them the responsibility of staying on top of everything, but still give support and encouragement when needed. The last thing you want at the end of the semester is thinking your child is doing well, and then being blindsided.

 3.) Assign extra homework 

Now, we all the heard the term "practice makes perfect", right? so let's take this into account. Math is one of the subjects that requires application, meaning it focuses on less memorization and more understanding of concepts by applying it to the real world and completing problems. Being able to apply it in and outside the classroom is essential. Assign an extra 20 problems a day in the topic they are currently learning. This will help with understanding but also reinforcement. 

Take your child outside the classroom to grasp how math can be used. For example, if they are learning about percentages and proportions, have them start with a certain amount of money and have them go shopping. Explain to them that certain items are on sale and have them calculate the final cost. In addition, bein able to differentiate between the unit cost of an item so that they are able to make sound financial decisions. 

There are tons of other ways to make better grades, but I figured I'd condense it into the top three. Share this article with your child and try one of these tips out!