Study Groups

What are they?

Student study groups are voluntary, student-led groups designed to help students keep each other accountable, motivated, and allows for deeper understanding through the process of peer practice and instruction.  Study groups share notes, explain concepts, practice skills, and review.   Each study group has at least one student leaders who have demonstrated excellence in Spanish class, although all participants must show self-motivation by volunteering to participate and contributing to the group. 

What they are not

Study groups are not intended as a place to do your practice work (Vista) or regular assignments.  Vista has built-in support tools and the school provides before school tutoring for assistance with practice work.

Where and When?

Groups meet outside of classtime based upon what works best for each group.  Groups may meet before school, during lunch, after school, or even on weekends.  Groups may meet on campus, off campus, or via video calls (Google Meet).   Study groups are not supervised by school personnel.

Benefits

Participating in a study group helps students to better learn the targeted skills and therefore do better academically.  They are a fun way to share the learning experience with a group of self-selected peers, and consequently, are rewarding in-and-of-themselves.  However, participants receive two bonus engagement points for each session they attend.  Study group participants also receive both digital and print version of study materials.

Líderes reales

Student Leaders, or líderes reales, facilitate each group.  They are not teachers nor tutors, but have demonstrated excellent performance and citizenship in Spanish class.  Student leaders maintain group records and communicate with the teacher on behalf of the group.  Active Líderes reales receive extra crédito in addition to the bonus engagement points that their group earns.

Commitment

Although student groups are voluntary, students must demonstrate an on-going commitment to maintain their group membership.  Students may expel a student from their group for lack of participation, poor attendance, or poor follow through.  Students may change study groups if the new group agrees.

How to Join

Students interested in joining a student study group should inquire during the individual practice time at the end of the class period.  Groups form as students express interest.