Here are the basics:
Many of these are common sense, but don't underestimate their importance.
  • ATTENDANCE: Successful students are responsible for their own learning, they attend class reguarlarly and are active participants in the class. If they are absent, they make sure to talk to another student and the teacher about their absence and what they missed. Successful students take responsibility for themselves and their actions.
  • INVOLVEMENT: Successful students are attentive in class. They don't talk, read, stare out windows, or do anything else that could be distracting. In other words, they are polite and respectful, even if they get a little bored. They also participate in class by asking questions and talking about the material.
  • STUDY/HOMEWORK TIME: Successful students set aside time every night to complete their homework, review their notes, and study. Falling behind is self-perpetuating, and coming to class unprepared makes you less able to understand the new material and ask questions.
  • ASSIGNMENTS: Successful students turn in assignments completed and on time that look neat and sharp. They take the time to produce a final product that looks good, and reflects a care and pride in their work. Successful students seem driven to complete their assignments. All work and assignments are turned in, even if a part or piece is not brilliant.
  • CONTACT: Successful students know that the students and the teacher make a team, teachers want students to be successful in their class and earn a good grade. Successful students check in with their teachers periodically. They see their instructors before or after class or during an appropriate time about their grades, and upcoming tests. These students demonstrate to the instructor that they are active participants in the learning process and that they take the job of being a student seriously.
  • TAKE ADVANTAGE: Successful students take advantage of extra opportunities when offered. They demonstrate that they care about their grades and are willing to work to improve them. They often do the optional (and frequently challenging) assignments that others may not.
  • OTHER: Successful students read all material so that they are prepared and know what the teacher expects of them. They set academic and personal goals for themselves each semester, A key difference between students who succeed and those who don't is that students who succeed have clearly defined goals. Successful students try to make connections between school and their everyday life.

 

Last Modified on September 5, 2011