Studying -- What Works for Your Student?

This school year has been a little bit challenging at times. More (a lot more in my book) is expected of 3rd graders and that's a good thing, I'm sure. Definitely more reading on your own, more studying for tests on your own, more responsibility to keep track of schedules and tests -- no more spoon-feeding -- that's for the little kids, right! Of course, that brings on its own challenges of trying to assist and figure out how to help your own little student plan ahead, learn and study effectively. Do I sound like a teacher?

I really wish I was one and had gotten my teaching degree!

Initially, I thought the best way to help my 3rd grader was flash cards. Flash cards worked great last year for learning a kajillion Q&As, prayers and sacraments for First Communion. So, I figured definitions on flash cards would work for science and social studies. Instead, I found out after a couple of not-so-good test results that we needed to try something different. I talked to her teacher and found out that she prepares a Jeopardy-like study guide for each Social Studies chapter. They go over it in class and each chapter is on the electronic blackboard thingy. (Yeah, I'm really into technology. What? Thingy isn't a technical term!?!) I printed it off and Maddy and I played [studied] jeopardy. Guess what -- her test results soared!! Since it worked for Social Studies, I thought I would try it for Science and made up our very own Science jeopardy from each chapter. Yep, bingo again -- worked like a charm!

Also, important to note, we have a tutor who comes once a week for an hour and works on whatever is needed -- generally math, but often social studies and science and reading comprehension. She is so sweet and special and Maddy loves her time with her. And, please don't think I'm standing over her with a paddle saying "study study, study" we don't do that -- I don't want to freak her out and make her hate school, after all.

Math is, of course, a little different and takes some repetition, ok, a lot of repetition. To help with the drudgery of timed-tests, we also use a dry-erase board and/or her new Glo-Doodle. Turned out that once she learned division, multiplication came a lot easier. So, to any struggling parents out there trying to help your student study for tests or learn materials-- jeopardy-type questions/answers worked for us -- it might work for you and your student!

Hey, do you have any tips of studying strategy your use with your student? Please share!