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What can I do to improve my learning in English class?
Eighth-grade English can be challenging. Success for most students involves being an independent learner who isn't afraid to study, read, and work hard to get a good grade. If you are struggling in English, here are some questions to ask yourself. As you answer them, think of how they might help you improve.
For trouble with reading quizzes:
1. Do you only read the assignment the night before the quiz?
You have multiple days to read an assignment. Try reading it one night and reviewing it the next. Then try re-reading it. Alternatively, you might break the assignment into smaller chunks and read a little each night.
2. Do you reinforce what you read?
*Take handwritten notes on the reading selections; you can use those notes on the quiz.
*Answer the study questions that go along with each selection (they are at the end of the selection in the textbook; if the selection is online, there is a link on the "reading selections" page). They will help guide you through the selection. If you have a hard time answering some, bring those questions to me and let me help you with them.
*Write down questions about the selection that you don't understand. Bring them to me any day before the quiz, and let me help you with them.
*Look up words you don't know. Write down the name of each character in a selection and give a brief description of him or her. Complete a story map for the selection (like this one or this one).
*Read the material that appears before and after each selection. It often gives insight into the literary devices and text elements used by the author.
4. Is the selection from an online textbook?
If so, print it out and read it from paper. Studies suggest that our comprehension and retention improve when we read from paper rather than a screen. If you don't have a printer at home, you can use one available at school. Come see me for details.
3. Do you participate in the discussion as we review the quizzes?
Many students just listen for the answers and don't think about anything else. But if you pay close attention, you'll see that our discussion of the selection and the quiz answers will lead you through the kind of critical thinking needed to answer future questions that are more difficult such as inference questions.
For trouble on vocabulary quizzes:
1. Do you only study the words the night before the quiz?
You generally have 2 weeks to learn 20 words. That's only 2 words per day (not even including weekends). If you wait until the last minute, it's too much to learn in too little time.
2. Do you make flashcards to help you learn the words?
On one side, write the word. On the opposite side, put the definition, synonyms, antonyms, fill-in-the-blank sentence, or whatever area you need the most help with. Remove cards as you learn the words. Go through them every night.
3. Do you learn from your mistakes?
When you get a graded vocabulary quiz back, go over it until you understand why you made mistakes. This will help you develop the critical thinking skills needed to improve. If you don't understand why you missed it, bring it to me and let me help you.
4. Do you take notes?
I teach new words almost daily. I provide you with the word used in context, visual examples, shades of meaning, and different usages. As we discuss the words, write down notes that will help you to remember these important elements.
5. Do you utilize the online practice exercises?
You can find them here.
6. If available, do you use Vocabulary Workshop as practice?
Some students just fill in the blank with any word to save time. Actually attempt the exercises and think through each problem to maximize the workbook's usefulness. Ask me about any items you do not understand. Check your answers in the "checkbook" to make sure they're correct.
For trouble on grammar quizzes:
1. Do you ask questions?
We take notes and practice every day. Every day I ask if anyone has any questions. Do you speak up when there's something you don't understand?
2. Do you study your notes every night?
Every night you should look over the practice we did that day. If there's something you don't understand about what we did, make a note of it and ask me the next day.
3. Do you actually do the DOL practice sentences?
I notice many students who write the sentence and then wait to copy the answer off the board when it's complete. This is the wrong way to do it. You need to practice diagramming the sentence and then check your work with the final answer.
For trouble getting the grade you want:
1. Are you taking advantage of all of the above?
The above suggestions will help you improve your grades in those critical areas.
2. Do you turn in all assignments and prepare for quizzes on time?
Always refer to the assignment calendar to ensure you aren't behind on your preparation.
3. Are you making the most of your participation grade?
All you need to do is raise your hand to answer, volunteer, or ask a question four times a week to ensure a good participation grade.
4. Are you keeping your notebook up-to-date?
Make sure you include the dates for each DOL and practice notes. If you are absent, make sure you copy the missed day's notes and DOL. Every quarter we have a notebook check: it should be an easy 100!
If all of that fails, COME SEE ME! Together we can work on a plan to make sure you are putting yourself in the best position to learn and succeed.
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