So I've posted on several things so far - rationale behind the concept of malleable intelligence, test-taking strategies, teacher strategies to focus on test-taking and even learning styles. I wanted to take a second to talk about the rationale behind focusing my energy on this and the potential for student impact.
The problem is very apparent in all of my classes. Students are not studying and it shows with the low test score averages they receive. I realize there's always room for improvement on my end - but I have found that there is a big drop from daily exit slip scores to final mastery on exams. That means one thing: students are not reviewing before the big tests.
This is an extremely important life skill that affects them not just now in 9th grade biology but, in my opinion, predicts their success in college single-handedly. If I go to college without the knowledge and skill set required to master the material regardless of the professor, class size or academic content then I am doomed to failure.
In order to teach students how to study effectively, a group effort is required from students, parents and teachers. This is why the blog has included tips for all three parties. If students are taught effectively how to study, I sincerely believe that they are set up for success in a very important way for the rest of their lives in any course they take.
