Five
Ways to Start the School Year off Right
Make school a success with these five winning tips.
| 1. |
Get
it together! That means getting organized. It might
take more time at first, but in the long run you’ll
feel better if your papers all land in the right place. Use
different colored folders for each class, and label them with
the class name. It’s also a good idea to keep assignments
that have already been graded in one pocket, those that need
to be turned in to the teacher in the other. Notes from class
should have their own space as well, so they’re on hand
when it’s time to study. Plus, having a planner is a
great way to keep track of homework and long-term projects.
Jot them down along with due dates and test dates. |
| 2. |
Homework…make
it happen. Find a quiet spot and just do it. No excuses!
Don’t put off assignments or studying for a test until
you feel like starting—that moment may never happen.
Instead, do what works for you. Maybe you like to start out
with the easy stuff, and save the harder or longer assignments
for last. Or vice versa. Save your reading assignments for
later, since that’s a more relaxing task. If it seems
like you have tons to do, take short breaks in between. |
| 3. |
Talk
to your teachers. Your teachers are on your side.
They want you to do well, too. But make sure you do your part,
too. Each teacher has their own set of expectations, and that
includes getting homework done on time. If you’re feeling
lost in a particular subject, don’t wait—ask for
help right away. |
| 4. |
Join
the club. Getting involved can be fun! Filling your
time with activities that interest you can actually help you
get better grades. That’s because it energizes your
mind and teaches you to budget your time. It’s also
a good way to get used to your new school. After all, kids
like you will be into the same kinds of volunteer projects
or organizations that you choose. |
| 5. |
The
power of play. Make sure you get enough rest every
night—at least eight hours. Limit things like soft drinks
and sweets. Treating yourself once in a while is okay, but
it’s wise not to eat too much sugar! Save most of your
TV watching a computer time for the weekend. During the school
week, try to exercise by practicing your favorite sport or
taking the dog for a walk. And stay away from so-called friend
who try to offer you drugs, alcohol or cigarettes. Nothing
good comes from putting bad (not to mention illegal!) stuff
in your body. |
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