playing music can improve academic performance and help you get into college

Playing Music Can Improve Academic Performance and Help You Get Into College

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Playing Music Can Improve Academic Performance and Help You Get Into College

playing music can improve academic performance and help you get into college

There are many benefits to learning to play a musical instrument. In addition to being a fun and rewarding hobby, music can also improve your cognitive abilities, help you learn more effectively, and even boost your chances of getting into college.

How Does Music Improve Cognitive Abilities?

Playing a musical instrument requires a wide range of cognitive skills, including:

  • Attention: You need to be able to focus on the music and you’re playing, even when there are distractions around you.
  • Memory: You need to be able to remember the notes and rhythms of the music, as well as the fingerings for your instrument.
  • Problem-solving: You need to be able to figure out how to play the music correctly, even if it is challenging.
  • Creativity: You need to be able to express yourself through music and come up with new ideas.

All of these cognitive skills are also important for academic success. Studies have shown that students who play musical instruments tend to have better grades in school, especially in math and science. They also tend to score higher on standardized tests.

How Does Music Help You Learn More Effectively?

There are a few reasons why music can help you learn more effectively. First, music can help you improve your memory. When you learn a new piece of music, you are essentially learning a new language. You have to remember the notes, the rhythms, and the fingerings. This process of learning helps to strengthen your memory skills.

Second, music can help you improve your focus and concentration. When you are playing an instrument, you need to be fully focused on the music. This can help you to develop the ability to focus on your schoolwork and other tasks.

Third, music can help you to relax and de-stress. When you are feeling stressed, it can be difficult to learn effectively. However, music can help you to relax and reduce stress levels. This can make it easier for you to focus on your schoolwork and other tasks.

How Can Music Help You Get Into College?

Many colleges and universities look for well-rounded students who have a variety of interests. Playing a musical instrument is a great way to demonstrate your commitment to a hobby and your ability to learn new skills.

Additionally, many colleges offer music scholarships, which can help you to pay for your education. If this is something you’re interested in, then learn more about our music school prep and audition training workshop.

If you are interested in learning to play a musical instrument, there are many resources available to help you get started. You can take lessons from a private instructor, join a community music school, or even learn online. No matter how you choose to learn, playing a musical instrument can be a rewarding experience that will benefit you both academically and personally.

Additional Tips for Getting Started with a Musical Instrument:

  • Choose an instrument that you are interested in and that is appropriate for your age and skill level. See also: choosing the right instrument.
  • Find a qualified instructor who can teach you the basics of playing the instrument.
  • Practice regularly. The more you practice, the better you will become at playing the instrument.
  • Be patient. It takes time and practice to become a good musician.
  • Have fun! Playing music should be enjoyable.

If you are willing to put in the time and effort, learning to play a musical instrument can be a rewarding experience that will benefit you in many ways. So what are you waiting for? Pick up an instrument today and start playing!

Music Lessons at Hodis Learning & Music

Music lessons with Hodis Learning & Music’s expert music educators are a great way to help your child develop their musical skills and practice regularly. Learn more or schedule your first session by calling or emailing us today

Learn more about the musical instruments that you can learn with an expert music teacher at Hodis Learning & Music:

Benefits of Private SAT Tutoring

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Benefits of Private SAT Tutoring

Benefits of Private SAT Tutoring

Some colleges are waiving the requirement for standardized testing. But the truth is that college admissions committees are still more likely to accept students who submit high test scores than they are to accept students who do not submit any test scores. So, getting high SAT scores is still as important as ever. SAT tutoring is the best option for making significant changes to your test scores. Continue reading to learn why working with expert SAT tutors is the right option for your student.

Primary Benefits of Private SAT Tutoring

There are many benefits to private SAT tutoring. Here are some of the most important:

  • Personalized attention: When you work with a private tutor, you get one-on-one attention. This means that the tutor can focus on your strengths and weaknesses, and help you develop a study plan that is tailored to your specific needs.
  • Expert guidance: Private SAT tutors at Hodis Learning & Music are experts in the SAT. They know the test inside and out, and they can teach you the strategies and techniques that you need to succeed.
  • Motivation: A private tutor can help you stay motivated and on track with your studies. They can also provide you with encouragement and support when you need it.
  • Flexibility: Private tutoring is flexible. You can work with your tutor at a time that is convenient for you, and you can focus on the areas that you need the most help with.

Private SAT Tutoring Can Also Help You:

  • Improve your reading comprehension skills: The SAT includes a section on reading comprehension, which tests your ability to understand and analyze passages. A private tutor can help you improve your reading comprehension skills by teaching you how to identify the main idea of a passage, how to make inferences, and how to answer comprehension questions.
  • Master math concepts: The SAT also includes a section on math, which tests your knowledge of basic math concepts. A private tutor can help you master math concepts by providing you with extra practice, explaining concepts in a way that you understand, and helping you develop problem-solving skills.
  • Develop test-taking strategies: The SAT is a timed test, so it is important to develop effective test-taking strategies. A private tutor can help you develop test-taking strategies by teaching you how to manage your time, how to avoid careless errors, and how to answer questions quickly and accurately.

If you are serious about getting a high score on the SAT, then private SAT tutoring is a great option. With the help of a private tutor, you can improve your skills, boost your confidence, and achieve your target score.

How to Choose a Private SAT Tutor

When choosing a private SAT tutor, there are a few things you should keep in mind:

  • Experience: Make sure that the tutor has experience teaching the SAT. They should be familiar with the test format, the types of questions that are asked, and the most effective strategies for answering them.
  • Credentials: The tutor should have the appropriate credentials. They should be certified by a reputable organization, such as the Association for Test Preparation, Admissions, and Private Tutoring.
  • Personality: The tutor should be a good fit for you. You should feel comfortable working with them, and you should feel confident that they can help you achieve your goals.

Conclusion

Private SAT tutoring can be a great investment in your future. With the help of a private tutor, you can improve your skills, boost your confidence, and achieve your target score. If you are serious about getting a high score on the SAT and getting into the college of your dreams, then private SAT tutoring is a great option.

2023-2024 Test Prep Dates

We recommend beginning test prep tutoring at least 2-3 months before your first test date, depending on how much experience you have.

SAT Test Date Registration Deadline
August 26, 2023 July 28, 2023
October 7, 2023 September 7, 2023
November 4, 2023 October 5, 2023
December 2, 2023 November 2, 2023
March 9, 2024 February 23, 2024
May 4, 2024 April 19, 2024
June 1, 2024 May 17, 2024

Register for the SAT test on the CollegeBoard’s website here.

Sign Up for SAT Tutoring 

Raise your test scores with expert, private SAT tutoring at Hodis Learning & Music. Learn more or schedule your first session by calling or emailing us today.

Educator Spotlight: Muan M.

Educator Spotlight: Muan M.

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Educator Spotlight: Muan M.

 

Educator Spotlight: Muan M.

 

What subjects do you teach?

  • Academic Tutoring: AP Physics (Mechanics and Electromagnetism+Waves), Lower and Upper Division Physics (Solid State Mechanics, Thermodynamics, etc), Algebra 1 and 2, Geometry, Trigonometry, and Calculus.

 
What’s the most rewarding part of being an educator?

For me, by far the most rewarding aspect of being an educator is the relationship that is fostered with not just each student, but their families as a whole. You learn about the struggles each family goes through and get to experience a wide variety of cultures and ways of life. That is what makes it so meaningful: the process of gradually understanding their difficulties and being able to help them from the inside out, watching the students grow, and sharing in the relief and pride of each wonderful family. It’s something really special.


What are the most common areas you see your students struggling in? How do you help them in those areas?

I feel like a component of academic success that is oftentimes overlooked is the student’s confidence in their abilities. Obviously their aptitude is a major factor, but the goal should be to learn as much as possible. From that will come the ability to solve problems and get better grades. The thing to start with is getting students to really enjoy the process of learning and school in general, and that comes with confidence in their ability to figure things out. 

That is where I feel many of the students I have worked with have had their motivation stalled. They may have had a bad string of tests or had someone in their academic life disapprove of their efforts. Regardless of the reason for it, that lack of self-assurance is a very common issue, and one that everyone faces at some point. It just takes time, and sometimes someone (like an HLM tutor) to help you along the way sometimes.


How do you help them improve in those areas?

The first steps toward achieving confidence and the sort of upward spiral of enjoyment and ability are not complicated. It is a combination of a lot of things, but fundamentally, hard work will do wonders to start students on that path. It is important that hard work is met with results though, to start that positive feedback loop. When first starting out with a student, it’s of paramount importance that they feel as though they have control of what they’re doing. I think that’s really what the value of tutors and teachers in general are: to provide guidance and tailor material so that the proper difficulty balance is struck to keep the student motivated as well as learning.


What do you enjoy doing outside of teaching students?

I graduated with my BS in physics last year and now spend a lot of my days pouring over math problems with students, so I’ve discovered some more artistic hobbies. I’ve recently gotten into making music (I have a synthesizer and everything, which is fun) and film production/editing. I love to read, mostly fantasy books at the moment, like The Kingkiller Chronicles. I also spend a lot of time either in the gym or playing pick-up basketball. It’s a nice balance.


What do you think makes Hodis Learning & Music a great service and company to work for?

I can honestly say that, over the course of my admittedly limited work experience, Hodis Learning & Music is the best company I’ve worked for thus far. Because it was founded and is based in the South Pasadena/Pasadena area, HLM is a very close-knit community of students, families, tutors, and school districts. It makes everything a bit more comfortable and easy. With this also comes an immense amount of experience with the California education curriculum. 

I also have to give props to the president of the company, Drew Hodis, and the rest of management. They run a really tight ship and make every effort to make it an easy process for us tutors and for the students and families. I’m really happy to be working for HLM!

 

Learn more about Muan.

The Impact of Exercise on Academic Performance

The Impact of Exercise on Academic Performance

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The Impact of Exercise on Academic Performance

The Impact of Exercise on Academic Performance

Today, we’re discussing the incredible impact of exercise on academic performance. When children and adolescents stay active, they experience higher levels of fitness, lower body fat, and stronger muscles and bones compared to those who are more sedentary.

Additionally, physical activity enhances cognitive abilities, which means improved academic performance, sharper memory, and better overall thinking skills. On top of that, it can even help alleviate symptoms of depression. So, encouraging your students to get moving is a fantastic way to support their physical and mental well-being! 


The Scientific Impact of Exercise on Academic Performance

The FITKids study by Hillman et al. (2018) explored the effects of physical activity on conflict monitoring in young individuals. Conflict monitoring is the cognitive process of detecting and managing conflicting information. The findings revealed that regular physical activity has a positive impact on conflict monitoring abilities.

Improved conflict monitoring abilities can improve decision-making skills, problem-solving skills, and cognitive flexibility, which are all crucial for academic success.

In another study, Chomitz et al. (2009) investigated the association between physical fitness and academic achievement in third- and fifth-grade students. The researchers collected data on cardiovascular endurance, body mass index, and muscular strength and endurance. Academic achievement was assessed using standardized tests in reading and math.

The study revealed that students who demonstrated higher levels of physical fitness also performed better academically, particularly in the areas of reading and math. The findings also suggested that higher levels of physical fitness were associated with improved cognitive behaviors, such as attention, memory, and problem-solving skills.


Recommended Exercise Guidelines

According to the CDC, children and adolescents aged 6-17 years old should get 60 minutes or more of moderate to intense physical activity daily. Most of those 60 minutes should be spent doing a moderate to vigorous aerobic activity. Think running, bike riding, or a sport like soccer or basketball. This hour of moderate to vigorous activity should be done at least 3 days a week.

A portion of the daily 60-minute activity should also include a muscle-strengthening activity. Muscle-strengthening activities should also be done at least 3 days per week. Climbing trees or playing on a play structure with ladders, ropes, and slides are considered muscle-strengthening activities. Adolescents might consider using weight machines, resistance bands, or hand-held weights to strengthen muscles.

Part of the daily 60-minute activity should include bone-strengthening physical activities as well. Hopping, skipping, or jumping are examples of bone-strengthening activities.

Many children and adolescents likely already meet the recommended exercise guidelines by playing daily at recess, visiting parks, or participating in a sport with weekly practices.


Conclusion

It’s important for children and adolescents to build healthy habits and have an active lifestyle. Exercise has a proven positive impact on academic performance and cognitive development. Parents and guardians should encourage their students to be active every day.

If your active student needs help preparing for exams, completing homework, or just generally needs academic support, contact Hodis Learning & Music. Call us or request a call back to learn more and book your first session today!


Citations

Hillman, C. H., Pontifex, M. B., Raine, L. B., Castelli, D. M., Hall, E. E., & Kramer, A. F. (2018). Effects of the FITKids physical activity randomized controlled trial on conflict monitoring in youth.

Chomitz, V. R., Slining, M. M., McGowan, R. J., Mitchell, S. E., Dawson, G. F., & Hacker, K. A. (2009). Is there a relationship between physical fitness and academic achievement? Positive results from public school children in the northeastern United States.Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (n.d.).

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (n.d.). Physical Activity Guidelines for Children and Adolescents. www.cdc.gov/healthyschools/physicalactivity/guidelines

University of Nebraska-Lincoln. (n.d.). Physical Activity: Kids and Teens. food.unl.edu/article/physical-activity-kids-and-teens

 

Managing Stress During Finals: Self-Care and Mental Health Tips

Managing Stress During Finals: Self-Care and Mental Health Tips

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Managing Stress During Finals: Self-Care and Mental Health Tips

Managing Stress During Finals: Self-Care and Mental Health Tips

As finals approach, students often experience increased levels of stress and anxiety. In addition to practicing effective study skills, it’s essential to prioritize self-care and mental health during this time to manage stress effectively. In this blog post, we’ll explore some self-care and mental health tips to help you cope with the stress of finals.


Practicing Self-Care During Finals

Self-care is critical during finals week to maintain your physical, emotional, and mental well-being. Here are some self-care tips that can help you stay healthy and focused during this challenging time:

  • Get Enough Sleep: Sleep is crucial for restoring energy and improving cognitive function. Aim for at least 7-8 hours of sleep every night to feel well-rested and refreshed.
  • Eat Healthy: Eating a balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help you stay energized and focused. Avoid excessive caffeine, sugar, and junk food, as they can disrupt your sleep and worsen stress.
  • Exercise Regularly: Regular exercise can help reduce stress levels and improve mood. Take a break from studying to go for a walk or engage in any physical activity you enjoy.
  • Take Breaks: Take regular breaks from studying to give your brain a chance to rest and recharge. This can help you stay focused and productive while avoiding burnout.


Maintaining Mental Health During Finals

Your mental health is just as important as your physical health. Use the following tips in addition to the self-care tips above to help you maintain your mental health:

  • Practice Mindfulness: Mindfulness practices, such as meditation or deep breathing exercises, can help you reduce stress levels and stay focused. Try a mindful meditation app like Insight Timer or Headspace.
  • Seek Support: Don’t hesitate to seek support from friends, family, or professional counselors if you’re feeling overwhelmed. Talking to someone can help you gain perspective and alleviate stress.
  • Take Breaks: Maintain your physical and mental energy by taking regular study breaks. Taking breaks as needed will help you avoid academic burnout and stay on track for final exam success.
  • Prioritize Time Management: Effective time management can help you reduce stress levels by preventing last-minute cramming and procrastination. Create a study schedule and stick to it to stay on track.


Managing Stress During Finals

Stress is inevitable during finals week, but there are ways to manage it effectively. Here are some additional tips to help you cope with stress:

  • Practice Relaxation Techniques: Relaxation techniques, such as yoga or massage, can help you reduce stress levels and promote relaxation.
  • Listen to Music: Music can be a great way to relax and reduce stress levels. Create a playlist of calming music to listen to during study breaks.
  • Avoid Multitasking: Multitasking can increase stress levels and reduce productivity. Focus on one task at a time, and avoid distractions such as social media or email notifications.
  • Visualize Success: Visualizing success can help you stay motivated and reduce stress levels. Visualize yourself doing well on your exams and achieving your academic goals.

In conclusion, managing stress during finals week is crucial for academic success and overall well-being. By prioritizing self-care, mental health, and stress management, you can navigate this challenging time with confidence and resilience. Remember to take care of yourself, seek support when needed, and stay positive. Good luck on your finals!


Manage Stress with the Help of an Expert Tutor!

A sure-fire way to reduce stress and anxiety during finals season is by preparing for your exams with the help of a dedicated tutor. Ace your final exams with the help of expert, 1-on-1 tutors at Hodis Learning & Music! We have tutors for all subjects K-12 as well as college math, English, and science courses. Call us or request a call back to learn more and book your first session today!

survive finals week with effective study techniques and test strategies!

Surviving Finals Week: Study Techniques and Test Strategies

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Surviving Finals Week: Study Techniques and Test Strategies

survive finals week with effective study techniques and test strategies!

Finals week can be a stressful time for students, as they face the culmination of a semester’s worth of coursework and assessments. However, with the right study techniques, you can set yourself up for success and navigate through finals week with confidence. In this blog post, we will explore effective strategies for surviving finals week and achieving academic success.


Planning and Organization: Keys to Finals Success

One of the most important aspects of preparing for finals week is planning and organization. Start by creating a study schedule that outlines specific times and dates for reviewing each subject or topic. This will help you stay focused and ensure that you cover all the necessary material before your exams.

Use study tools such as calendars, to-do lists, and digital apps to keep track of important deadlines, assignments, and study sessions. By staying organized and following a plan, you can avoid last-minute cramming and reduce stress during finals week.


Effective Study Techniques: Finding What Works for You

Different students have different learning styles, so it’s important to find study techniques that work best for you. Check out our list of study skills ranked from ‘best’ to ‘worst’ based on research on learning and memory. Some common study techniques include:

  • Active Reading: Instead of passively reading through your notes or textbooks, actively engage with the material. Take notes, highlight key points, and ask yourself questions as you read. This will help you better understand and retain the information. See also: SQ3R.
  • Practice Exams: Many professors or textbooks provide practice exams or sample questions. Completing practice exams can help you familiarize yourself with the format and types of questions that may appear on the actual exam. Analyze your mistakes and use them as learning opportunities. See also: self-testing, elaborative interrogation, and self-explanation.
  • Best Practices for Studying: Research shows that using spaced practice, or breaking up studying into smaller blocks over time, is more effective than studying for hours on end for a few days. Additionally, changing up the content that you study every 30-60 minutes, or interleaved studying, is also an effective study skill. For more information on ineffective study skills, check out the following evidence-based articles: Study Habits You Should Knock Part I and Part II.
  • Group Study: Studying with peers can be a beneficial way to review and discuss the material. Share notes, quiz each other, and discuss challenging concepts. However, be mindful of staying focused and not getting too distracted by socializing.


Managing Time and Stress: Balancing Finals and Self-Care

During finals week, it’s important to strike a balance between studying and taking care of yourself. Make sure to get enough sleep, eat healthy meals, and exercise regularly to keep your body and mind in top shape. Taking breaks during study sessions can actually improve your focus and retention.

Practice stress-relief techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or physical activities like yoga or walking. Take time for yourself, engage in activities you enjoy, and avoid excessive caffeine or junk food that can negatively impact your physical and mental health.


Strategies for Test Day: Finals Success

On the day of your exams, it’s essential to have a strategy in place to help you perform your best. Consider the following strategies:

  • Read instructions carefully: Make sure to thoroughly read and understand the instructions for each exam. Pay attention to any specific requirements or restrictions.
  • Pace yourself: Time management is crucial during exams. Allocate your time wisely and avoid spending too much time on one question. If you get stuck, move on and come back to it later.
  • Review your answers: After completing the exam, review your answers to ensure accuracy and completeness. Make sure you have answered all the questions to the best of your ability.
  • Stay calm and confident: Remember to stay calm and confident during the exam. If you encounter challenging questions, take a deep breath and approach them with a clear mind. Trust in your preparation and stay positive.


Conclusion

Surviving finals week requires careful planning, effective study techniques, time management, and self-care. By staying organized, finding study techniques that work for you, and managing stress, you’ll increase the chances of success on your final exams while maintaining good health.


Get an A in Your Class with Expert Tutoring!

Ace your final exams with the help of expert, 1-on-1 tutors at Hodis Learning & Music! We have tutors for all subjects K-12 as well as college math, English, and science courses. Call us or request a call back to learn more and book your first session today!

Self-Care for Better Grades: How Students Can Take Charge of Their Well-Being

Self-Care for Better Grades: How Students Can Take Charge of Their Well-Being

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Self-Care for Better Grades: How Students Can Take Charge of Their Well-Being

Self-Care for Better Grades: How Students Can Take Charge of Their Well-Being

It is often said that achieving academic success comes at a price, especially for students. The pressures of assignments, exams, and extracurricular activities can lead to burnout, which can negatively affect both physical and mental health. However, this does not mean that students should compromise their well-being for better grades. By taking charge of their self-care, students can enjoy improved academic performance while maintaining their health.


1. Get Quality Sleep

One of the most important aspects of self-care for students is getting enough sleep. Research shows that lack of sleep can have a significant impact on academic performance, memory, and concentration. It is recommended that students get between 7 and 9 hours of sleep per night, which can help them feel rested and refreshed for the day ahead. To ensure a good night’s sleep, students should avoid caffeine and electronics before bedtime and create a relaxing bedtime routine.


2. Exercise Regularly

Another crucial aspect of self-care for students is exercise. Regular physical activity can help to reduce stress, improve concentration, and boost overall well-being. Students can incorporate exercise into their daily routine by taking a walk or jog, attending a fitness class, or even doing yoga. Exercise can also provide a much-needed break from studying, allowing students to clear their minds and return to their work with renewed focus.


3. Eat a Balanced Diet

Eating a balanced diet is also essential for student self-care. A healthy diet can provide the energy and nutrients needed to power through the day and maintain a strong immune system. Students should aim to eat a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins, while avoiding excessive amounts of sugary and processed foods.


4. Prioritize Mental Health

These physical practices have a huge impact on students’ stress and mental health. Other ways to prioritize mental health include seeking support from a counselor or therapist, practicing mindfulness or meditation, or simply taking time for oneself. Students should also prioritize social connections, as spending time with friends and family can provide a sense of belonging and reduce feelings of isolation.


5. Practice Time-Management

Lastly, students should practice good time management to ensure that they are not overwhelmed by their workload. This can involve creating a schedule, prioritizing tasks, and taking breaks when needed. By managing their time effectively, students can avoid the stress and anxiety that often comes with last-minute cramming.


Summary

In conclusion, self-care is essential for students to maintain their well-being and achieve academic success. By prioritizing sleep, exercise, healthy eating, mental health, social connections, and time management, students can improve their physical and mental health while excelling in their academic pursuits. It is essential for students to remember that self-care is not a luxury but a necessary aspect of academic achievement.


Get Extra Help from an Expert Tutor

Sometimes, students find themselves experiencing stress and mental health difficulties because they are receiving poor grades, despite their best efforts to care for themselves. If this is the case for your student, it may be time to get a tutor. Hodis Learning & Music offers expert academic tutoring at competitive rates. Our tailored, individualized approach to tutoring provides students with the opportunity to flourish in their studies. Contact us to learn more or schedule your first session!

 

Staying Productive Over Spring Break

5 Tips for Staying Productive Over Spring Break

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5 Tips for Staying Productive Over Spring Break

Staying Productive Over Spring Break

Spring break is a welcome opportunity to rest and recharge. However, it’s also a short break, and right after, it’s time for that last push to the end of the semester. Here are some helpful tips to stay productive over spring break.


1. Make a Schedule

Your first instinct when you start spring break will probably be to shove anything school-related into a corner. But take a look at your calendar and note any exams or assignments that are due the week you return to school, and maybe even the week after. If you need to complete homework or study for an exam, schedule some time over the course of your break to tackle those projects. This will help you avoid stressing the Sunday before school starts again.


2. Catch Up on Hobbies

Spring break is a great time to get back into activities that bring you joy. Read a book for fun, practice drawing, ride your skateboard, go on a hike, or do whatever it is that you love to do. Taking the time to invest in yourself and your interests can help you feel refreshed when it’s time to return to school.


3. Limit Screen Time

It can be tempting to just spend your spring break scrolling on your phone or watching endless amounts of TV. However, this can make you feel irritable, lethargic, and less motivated. Use your schedule to block out time for TV and even social media scrolling, but set a timer to make sure you aren’t spending too much time on your devices.


4. Find Fun Ways To Learn

If you have a big end-of-semester project or paper, use the extra time you have over spring break to research and prepare. Visit a museum related to your project topic, go to a library, or try an at-home science experiment. These can be exciting ways to apply lessons outside of the classroom and make learning more fun.


5. Reflect & Reward Yourself

Take some time to reflect on what you accomplished so far this semester. Reward yourself for your hard work with a special treat or fun day with friends. Use your reward and rest time as motivation to finish the year strong. If you didn’t quite achieve what you wanted to, consider spring break a reset button. Then get ready to start fresh after the break!

 

During this time off, you might realize you need help to finish the year strong. This is a great time to schedule a session with a tutor that you can meet with when school starts up again. Contact us to learn more or schedule your first session!

 

See also: Spring Cleaning for Students

6 steps to improve your grades after receiving a poor progress report

6 Steps to Improve Your Grades After Receiving a Poor Progress Report

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6 Steps to Improve Your Grades

After Receiving a Poor Progress Report

6 steps to improve your grades after receiving a poor progress report

It can be discouraging to receive a poor progress report. But students can take action to improve their grades before the end of the semester. The steps below guide students on how they can improve their grades.


1. Identify the Problem

Review your progress report to understand which subjects you are struggling with and which areas within that subject are most challenging. Once you’ve identified those specific problems, you can start to work towards improving in those areas.


2. Set Attainable Goals

Set achievable short and long term goals for yourself based on your progress report. Make sure your goals are SMART, or specific, measurable, and timely. An example of a good short-term goal could be to complete all homework assignments for a specific subject for the next two weeks. A long-term goal could be to improve your overall grade in that subject by one letter grade by the end of the semester.


3. Create a Study Plan

A study plan can help you stay on track and focused on your goals. Create a study plan with specific times and places designated for studying. Make sure you plan in breaks to avoid burnout. And incorporate study techniques that are proven to work best.


4. Seek Help

Don’t be afraid to ask for help from teachers, tutors, or classmates. For example, you can ask your teacher for clarification on difficult concepts or get feedback on your assignments. A tutor can help you create a study plan, help you with homework, or explain challenging concepts in new, approachable ways.


5. Stay Organized

Use a planner or calendar to keep track of assignments, deadlines, and exam dates. This can also be where you write down your study plan and schedule. Check out our other tips for staying organized.


6. Stay Motivated

Remind yourself of your goals and progress to help you stay motivated, even when work is challenging. You can also build in rewards when you achieve some of your goals or complete a challenging assignment.


Improve Your Grades With Tutoring

A progress report can be helpful for determining where you are and where you need to work harder. Tutoring is a fantastic option to help you set your goals, stay on track, and achieve better grades by the end of the semester. Learn more about our academic tutoring services or contact us to schedule your first session!

Elementary School Struggles & How To Help Students

Common Elementary School Struggles & How To Help

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Common Elementary School Struggles & How To Help

Elementary School Struggles & How To Help Students

There are many reasons why a student in elementary school might be struggling in the classroom. Discover some common reasons why and how to help students.


Common Ways Students Struggle in Elementary School


1. Paying Attention

If a student struggles with paying attention in class, they might be missing out on valuable information. This might lead to missing assignments, struggling to understand concepts, or engaging in disruptive behavior.


2. Understanding Concepts

Elementary school is the foundation of children’s education. Students are exposed to a lot of new concepts and subjects. This can be exciting, but also challenging. It’s important for both teachers and parents to be aware of areas a student is struggling in so they can help as soon as possible.


3. Misbehaving in Class

Behavior issues can be indicative of a number of underlying issues. It’s important for both teachers and parents to be aware of and work to address behavioral issues.


How To Help Students in Elementary School


1. Paying Attention

Talk to your student’s teacher to get information about how and when they aren’t paying attention. Is it a constant problem at all times of the day, or does it only happen before lunch breaks? If it’s a persistent problem or one that results in disruptive behavior, it might be worth visiting a specialist like an educational therapist or pediatrician.

If a student struggles to turn in assignments, consider a homework chart or planner where both the teacher and parents can track what is due. Help the student create good organizational habits by using folders to carry homework assignments.


2. Understanding Concepts

Proactive communication between parents and teachers is paramount to helping students stay on track. Understand which subject area your student struggles in. Do they consistently struggle with that one subject or are there specific concepts they don’t grasp? From there, you can book a tutor.

Tutoring can be helpful for young students who need to understand basic and foundational concepts like addition, subtraction, or reading comprehension. Tutoring can also help elementary school students learn important academic skills like time management and organization.


3. Misbehaving in Class

Consider meeting with a specialist like a pediatrician, counselor, or educational therapist to address behavioral problems. It still might be worthwhile to book tutoring sessions to help your student, especially if they are struggling to grasp concepts.

A one-on-one tutoring session might help a student who otherwise acts out in a larger classroom setting. Your student will receive individualized attention without distractions so they can focus and really understand the material. Tutors will go at a pace that is optimal for your student, and can teach concepts in different ways that might be easier to understand.


Hodis Learning & Music Can Help

At Hodis Learning & Music, we have tutors who are familiar with the elementary school curriculum. Our tutors know how to engage with and encourage young students so they are more confident in the classroom. Call today or contact us here to schedule your first session!