4 Study Habits for Middle School Success
As students advance through the grades, they often gain more freedom in shaping their study methods. This article emphasizes the importance of independence in middle school study habits while providing the right amount of guidance. Read on to explore effective study techniques, such as Cornell Notes, the Pomodoro Method, and more.
1. Designate a Study Space
A well-lit study space free from distractions is essential. This area should have supplies like post-its, pens, pencils, highlighters, and scratch paper. Allow your child to personalize this space with posters, plants, or a special lamp to foster ownership.
Encourage organization by teaching your child to tidy up after each session. Sort supplies in small containers. A clutter-free desk can improve focus.
Use this space exclusively for studying to create a mental association between the area and the task. Minimize outside stimuli by turning off phones and keeping the TV in another room.
Ensure adequate lighting to reduce eye strain. Use natural light during the day and a good desk lamp for evening study sessions.
Let your child decide the layout of their study tools. A sense of control makes them more inclined to use the space effectively.
Establish a routine with set study times in this space. Consistency in location and time can create a productive habit.
Regularly check in with your child about their study space needs to show you value their input and help them feel committed to their study routine.
2. Manage Time With a Planner
Introduce your child to a simple planner to track assignments, projects, and deadlines. Encourage them to write down important due dates immediately.
Help your child break larger tasks into smaller, manageable parts. For example, divide a book report into steps like:
- Finishing the book
- Drafting the report
- Revising and editing
Establish a consistent study schedule with specific times each day for studying and homework.
Teach your child to prioritize tasks based on deadlines and difficulty levels. Tackle challenging assignments or those with closer deadlines first.
Encourage regular planner review sessions to track progress and adjust study plans as needed.
Include buffer times in their schedule to account for unexpected delays or tasks that take longer than anticipated.
Acknowledge their successes, such as finishing tasks early or maintaining their study schedule, to reinforce good habits.
3. Take Effective Notes
Introduce methods like Cornell Notes, which divides a page into sections for notes, cues, and summaries. Explain the benefits of handwritten notes for better retention.
Demonstrate how to set up a Cornell Notes page with columns for cues, notes, and a summary section. Encourage your child to jot down key points during lectures or reading.
Teach highlighting strategies, using colors sparingly to mark essential concepts, terms, and ideas. Develop a color-coding system for different types of information.
Introduce active reading strategies, such as:
- Asking questions
- Making predictions
- Summarizing sections
Encourage annotating texts by underlining important points and writing brief comments.
Promote periodic note reviews to strengthen memory retention. Suggest revisiting material at spaced intervals.
Show how to create summary sheets or concept maps from notes to reinforce material from multiple angles.
Encourage your child to adapt note-taking methods to their learning style, finding a system that enhances their ability to absorb and recall information.
4. Avoid Distractions
Teach your child to focus on one subject at a time by minimizing device interruptions. Consider setting up a "technology basket" for storing devices during study time.
Set specific times for non-educational device use, perhaps as a reward after completing study sessions.
"Multi-tasking is a myth. The brain can only focus on one thing at a time."
Explain the benefits of single-tasking over multi-tasking for more efficient and higher-quality work.
Introduce strategies like the Pomodoro Technique:
- Study for 25 minutes
- Take a 5-minute break
- Repeat
Encourage refreshing activities during breaks, such as stretching or taking a short walk.
Emphasize the importance of balanced sleeping and eating habits for concentration. Promote a diet rich in whole foods and consistent bedtime routines that avoid screens before sleep.
- Dunlosky J, Rawson KA, Marsh EJ, Nathan MJ, Willingham DT. Improving Students' Learning With Effective Learning Techniques: Promising Directions From Cognitive and Educational Psychology. Psychol Sci Public Interest. 2013;14(1):4-58.
- Cirillo F. The Pomodoro Technique: The Acclaimed Time-Management System That Has Transformed How We Work. Currency; 2018.
- Zimmerman BJ. Self-Regulated Learning and Academic Achievement: An Overview. Educational Psychologist. 1990;25(1):3-17.
