Get our FREE Back-to-School Resource Guide! Download it here.

Rethinking Class Preparation

Rethinking Class Preparation

As students progress through school, their approach to class time evolves significantly. Imagine a boat navigating a river, with two distinct banks on either side. One bank represents “pure learning,” where students encounter new concepts through reading, lectures, or group activities. The other bank symbolizes “organizing and predicting,” where the focus shifts from absorbing new information to structuring what’s already been learned and anticipating what might appear on exams. In the early school years, the boat stays close to the “pure learning” side of the river, with class time devoted to exploring new ideas and acquiring foundational knowledge. However, as students move up through the grades, the current gradually pulls the boat toward the “organizing and predicting” bank. Here, the emphasis is on reviewing previously learned material, making connections, and strategizing for assessments.

The way students prepare for class should reflect their grade level, the teaching style of their instructors, and their personal learning strengths. For instance, a high school student in an advanced placement course will likely spend more time predicting and organizing than a younger student still mastering the basics. Yet, both need strategies tailored to their specific stage in this educational process.

In the rest of this blog, we’ll explore these three factors in more depth. First, we’ll examine how students can adjust their study habits according to their grade level. Then, we’ll look at how the structure and expectations of different classes should influence their approach to learning. Finally, we’ll discuss how personal strengths and learning styles can be leveraged to maximize classroom preparation. By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of how to help your student navigate this academic river, ensuring they stay on course no matter where they are in their studies.

Adapting Study Habits by Grade Level

Young students spend most of their class time absorbing new concepts, and their study habits should reflect this. They benefit from engaging with the material through hands-on activities, visual aids, and interactive lessons. At this stage, study sessions might be short, centered on reviewing what was learned in class to solidify understanding and build a strong foundation.

However, as students move into middle school, the demands begin to shift. They’re expected to not only understand new concepts, but also to start connecting ideas across subjects. Here, students should begin incorporating more structured study habits, such as regular review sessions and note-taking practices that help them organize information logically. This is the time to introduce more strategic study tools like flashcards for memorization, deconstruction, and study groups for collaborative learning. The focus should be on reinforcing what was taught while gradually building the skills to predict what might be on exams.

In high school, the balance tips even further toward “organizing and predicting.” With the increased complexity of the subjects and the looming presence of standardized tests, students must refine their study habits to include more focused review sessions. At this level, students should develop the ability to identify key concepts and anticipate how they will be tested. Study habits should now include more sophisticated methods like annotating texts, creating detailed outlines, and even teaching the material to others as a way to deepen understanding. The shift here is toward independent learning, where students take ownership of their preparation, tailoring their study sessions to meet the demands of advanced coursework.

Aligning with Class Structure and Expectations

Not all classes are created equal, and neither are the methods students should use to prepare for them. Understanding the structure and expectations of each class is crucial in developing an effective study strategy. In lecture-based classes, for example, the primary challenge is often keeping up with the flow of information. Students in these classes should focus on developing strong note-taking skills that allow them to capture key points while also identifying areas that require further review. After class, it’s essential to go over these notes, clarify any points of confusion, and expand on the material through additional reading or research.

On the other hand, discussion-based classes demand a different approach. These classes often require students to come prepared with a solid understanding of the material, ready to engage in critical thinking and debate. Preparation for these classes should include thorough reading of assigned texts, forming opinions, and preparing questions or talking points. The goal here is not just to absorb information but to be able to discuss and apply it in a meaningful way. In these settings, students should also practice summarizing complex ideas concisely, as this skill will be invaluable during discussions and exams.

Some classes may blend these styles, requiring students to be versatile in their preparation. For example, a science class might include both lectures and labs, necessitating a combination of strong note-taking, hands-on practice, and the ability to apply theoretical knowledge in practical situations. Here, students must be adaptable, using a variety of study techniques to meet the diverse demands of the course. By aligning their preparation with the class structure, students can ensure they are fully equipped to succeed in any academic environment.

Leveraging Personal Learning Strengths

Each student has a unique way of processing information, and leveraging these personal learning strengths can significantly enhance classroom preparation. For visual learners, for instance, creating diagrams, charts, and mind maps can make complex information more digestible. These students often benefit from color-coded notes and visual aids that help them see connections between ideas. Encouraging visual learners to use these tools regularly can turn their study sessions into more engaging and productive experiences.

Auditory learners, on the other hand, may find that listening to lectures or discussions helps them retain information better. These students might benefit from recording lectures (with permission) and playing them back during study sessions, or even reading their notes aloud. Participating in study groups where they can discuss the material with peers can also be particularly beneficial. By integrating these auditory strategies into their preparation, students can reinforce their learning in a way that aligns with their natural strengths.

For kinesthetic learners, those who learn best through hands-on experiences, study sessions should include physical activities that engage their sense of touch and movement. These students might benefit from using flashcards that they can physically manipulate, engaging in role-play to simulate real-world applications of the material, or even studying in environments that allow for movement, such as walking while reviewing notes. By recognizing and utilizing their personal learning strengths, students can create study routines that not only make learning more effective but also more enjoyable.

Tactics for Effective Classroom Preparation

Effective classroom preparation is more than just reviewing notes the night before a test; it’s about developing a consistent routine that builds knowledge over time. One key tactic is spaced repetition—a technique where students review material at increasing intervals. This method is particularly effective for long-term retention, as it reinforces the material at just the right times before it fades from memory. Students can incorporate spaced repetition into their study routines by using flashcards or apps designed for this purpose, gradually increasing the intervals between review sessions as they become more familiar with the material.

Another important tactic is active recall, which involves testing oneself on the material rather than passively rereading notes. This technique forces the brain to retrieve information, strengthening the neural pathways associated with the memory. Students can practice active recall by creating practice quizzes, summarizing sections of their notes from memory, or teaching the material to a peer. This approach not only improves retention but also helps students identify areas where they may need further review.

Time management is also crucial for effective preparation. Students should create a study schedule that breaks down their workload into manageable chunks, ensuring that they allocate sufficient time to each subject. This might involve setting specific goals for each study session, such as completing a certain number of practice problems or mastering a particular concept. By staying organized and focused, students can make steady progress without feeling overwhelmed.

Finally, students should not underestimate the power of a well-structured environment. A designated study space free from distractions can significantly enhance focus and productivity. This space should be equipped with all necessary materials, from textbooks to highlighters, to minimize interruptions during study sessions. By creating a consistent and conducive study environment, students set themselves up for success in both their classroom preparation and their overall academic performance.

Staying the Course: Final Thoughts on Classroom Success

Navigating the academic river is no small feat, but with the right strategies in place, students can chart a course that leads to success. By adapting their study habits to match their grade level, aligning their preparation with class structures, and leveraging their personal learning strengths, students can transform classroom preparation into a powerful tool for learning. These tactics not only help students excel in their studies but also build confidence and resilience, qualities that will serve them well beyond the classroom.

Ultimately, the key to classroom success lies in consistency and adaptability. Students who are willing to refine their study routines, experiment with different techniques, and remain open to new ways of learning will find themselves better equipped to handle the challenges that come their way. As they continue their educational journey, these students will develop the skills and strategies necessary to not only stay afloat but to thrive in any academic setting.

For more personalized learning strategies and academic coaching, reach out to learn more about our one-on-one coaching programs. Be sure to explore our blog for additional insights on helping your child master the pillars of executive function and achieve their full potential.

Evan Weinberger

About SAOTG

Staying Ahead of the Game offers unique academic coaching & tutoring services to help good students achieve greatness.

Follow Us