How to Recognize Academic Trouble
Student's handle stress and trouble with academics in different ways. Having an open dialogue between a counselor and a teacher can help in identifying students who may be struggling with their courses.
Signs to Look For:
-A student who normally does well and is now struggling
-Someone who neglects work all together instead of trying and getting a poor grade
-They do not participate in class or ask questions
- Trying to get attention in other ways
Although these are a few signs that a student is having difficulty in classes, most students will know that they are having trouble. Therefore, having an open and trusting atmosphere so that the students feel comfortable and willing to approach the teacher or counselor is the best way to help.
Signs to Look For:
-A student who normally does well and is now struggling
-Someone who neglects work all together instead of trying and getting a poor grade
-They do not participate in class or ask questions
- Trying to get attention in other ways
Although these are a few signs that a student is having difficulty in classes, most students will know that they are having trouble. Therefore, having an open and trusting atmosphere so that the students feel comfortable and willing to approach the teacher or counselor is the best way to help.
What You Can Do
- Make sure that the projects and homework is engaging for the students
- Make sure enough directions are available for the students. Students who are struggling need more guidance and a clear structure is important
- Talk to students individually to see what they want and need to succeed
- Create space and time for homework. That way if students have questions they can ask the teacher right away.
- Make sure they know that all students face difficulty in courses and not to be embarrassed by this
What Students Can Do
The most important things that students can do is speak with their teacher about their struggles in school. Finding the best way to handle the situation is based on an individual approach.
- Staying organized and making sure that all assignments are completed on time is important.
- Some students may need to take time to relax and think clearly before they begin work.
- Make sure that where students are studying is conducive to learning. Most people learn best in a quiet environment with little distractions from others.
- Ask questions during class time and make sure that you leave understanding the material
- Set up time to work with the teacher after class
Resources
http://www.ascd.org/publications/educational-leadership/feb06/vol63/num05/If-They'd-Only-Do-Their-Work!.aspx