Parent Tips

Dear Parents,

Studies show how important parental involvement is in helping students to achieve success in school. I know that you want your student to have an excellent year in English Language Arts class, so here are a few tips that will help your student to succeed in class this year.

  • Find the best time for studying. Work hard with your child to decide on the best time for studying. Then, set that time aside at least five days out of every week. If there is no homework, your student can use to time to review and plan ahead.
  • Eliminate common distractions. Set aside a study area that is free from noise and other distractions. Turn off the TV. Research indicates that watching television allows students to "turn off their minds" because it requires no further action or interaction.
  • Avoid common interruptions. Take messages if the telephone rings, and have your student alert his or her friends not to drop by during the established study time.
  • Provide physical conditions that help concentration. Make sure that the study area has adequate lighting and is kept at a comfortable temperature. Provide a table or desk that has enough space for writing.
  • Keep supplies handy. Keeping study materials nearby saves time. Placing them in a small bucket or box makes it easy to move them to the study area.
  • Encourage computer literacy. Help your student understand the value of using the computer to write compositions and other assignments. Encourage your student to use the computers at home, school, or the public library.
  • Ask to see your student's books. Looking through the books gives you a better idea of what your teenager is learning and shows him or her that you consider the material important.
  • Ask to see your student's work on a regular basis. You do not need to criticize or regrade the papers--that will only make your teenager less willing to show you his or her work. Just show that you are interested.
  • Read. By watching you read, your child will see reading as a valuable activity. You can be especially effective if you occasionally read and discuss one of the selections your student is studying in class.

I look forward to working with you and your student and hope that you will contact me if you have any questions during the school year.