Mid-term Exams and Grades

It is hard to believe, but the semester is about half over.  Here are some things to keep in mind at this time regarding mid-term exams and grades:

Before mid-term exams:

·       Make sure you are keeping your calendar up to date so you know ahead of time when the exams are scheduled.

·       Be sure you have all of the information that will be on the exams, particularly if you have missed a class.

·       Start early to study, NOT the night before.   This is good practice for finals.

·       If you have two or more in a row, make a small study guide to look at as you travel between locations.  This will help you get your brain into the information for the next exam.  (You might also talk to the professor and ask if there is another class period or time when you could take the exam.)

After the exams:

·       If you discover there is information you have learned incorrectly or don’ t know at all, make sure you get it before the class moves forward, especially if the final is cumulative or it is in your major.  You can see your professor or ask another student who you know earned a high grade.

·       Analyze your preparation and learning throughout the first half of the semester and see what improvements you can make.

Mid-term grades:

·       Examine your grades and analyze how you have been studying.  Will just a little more effort earn you a higher grade?    Consider asking the professor, a peer tutor or a successful student in the class about study tips.

·       If you find you are failing a class, ask the professor (in person is best) if there is a chance of passing.  If so, explain how you have been preparing and ask for suggestions.  If there is no chance to pass, talk to your advisor about the possibility of withdrawing.  You should also talk with the financial aid office to see if this will impact any grants or loans.  There are multiple ramifications to failing a class!

The next several blog postings will look at exactly how learning happens and how you can maximize your study efforts!

*****
First Semester Success: Learning Strategies  and Motivation for Your First Semester (or Any Semester) of College, by Dr. Arden B. Hamer, is available at amazon.com, wordassociation.com and barnesandnoble.com.  Click on the upper right link.