Lia Manfredi Wu: A Fresh Start for School Success

"I wish my child did better in school. He says that he tries hard, but his grades don't reflect this," explains the mother of a seventh grader, during a San Francisco private school's open house.

I am certain that most teachers have heard the above lament from parents numerous times throughout each school year. Occasionally, the student whom the parent is referring to is actually trying his or her best. The student may truly be doing all that he can to do well, and may also, at the same time, be working to overcome a learning disability or cope with family or personal problems. But, more often than not, this simply is not the case.

Teachers - those whom I know at least - genuinely want their students to succeed and earn high grades. They also want their students to be excited about learning.

Yet, so many students fall short and don't achieve. When talking to other teachers about why some students aren't living up to their potential, phrases such as the following come up - "not doing the bare bones minimum," "needs to motivated" and "doesn't have respect for teachers or learning."

Students need to adopt a common sense approach to attaining school success. They need to ask themselves if they are willing to consistently do the following:

• Be respectful, have a good attitude, and show common courtesy in the ways that you interact with teachers and other students.

• Be on time to classes. Oftentimes, the most important information is presented during the first five minutes and the last five minutes of class. Make sure that you are both physically and mentally in class during these times.

• Talk to your teachers. Your teachers are there to help you learn and they do want to hear from you. You can ask your teacher if you can set up a time when you can go over a test, review a lesson or get some advice on how to improve in your own specific area of weakness.

• Listen carefully, concentrate and take notes during class. Class discussions and lectures are important. Make sure you are staying focused on each lesson.

First, decide that what is being taught in class is important enough for you to try to be interested in, and concentrate on. Therefore, when you are in algebra class for 45 minutes, truly devote yourself to the subject for this period of time.

Take notes on key things that your teacher says and written information that he or she provides for you on the chalkboard or overhead projector. You can use fragments, key words and abbreviations in order to save time.

• Read carefully. Unfortunately, when you read a textbook, it simply isn't the same as reading a novel for pleasure or a magazine article for interest. You actually need to "absorb" what you read when you are responsible for knowing the information.

When you read a textbook, adopt a process that allows you to know the information so that you could actually summarize it in your own words and pose important questions and give accurate answers about the reading. You can skim the material first (looking at tables and graphs of information, headings and chapter check comprehension questions that you will answer later), read meticulously second (taking notes in the margins and highlighting information, if you are allowed), and then make a "clean sweep" last, by reading over any confusing or dense parts.

• Record and complete your assignments everyday. Students who do well on tests and earn high grades invariably keep up with their work. Always do class work when you are supposed to and set a schedule for completing homework.

• Have study pals in each class. Make sure that you have the names of at least two or three students from each class so you can call them for any needed information or clarification on assignments.

• Get to know the librarian at your school and local library. They are experts at locating information that will help you with school projects and reports.

Lia Manfredi Wu earned her California teaching credential from SF State University. She is the founder of Tutoring Teachers, a professional tutoring service that provides one-on-one tutoring to students in need of academic assistance, guidance and growth.