Tips for Middle School Success

How can students make the most of their middle school experience?  Check out this great advice from the class of 2018 A (last year's 8th grade) as they share tips and lessons learned from their own experiences!

 1. Set goals to improve upon what you consider last year’s “problem areas”                       (such as

Class of 2018 at the Rodin Museum
in Philadelphis during Explore week.

practicing your instrument every night, getting to bed on time, reading one book every two weeks, or getting all your homework in on time) and work hard to accomplish them.

2. Make school attendance a priority. When you cannot attend because of an illness, sport, or special event, contact your teacher well in advance so that you can keep up with your studies.

3. Take care of yourself– eat healthy foods, stay hydrated and get plenty of sleep. It is recommended that middle school students get an average of 9 hours of sleep per night. It also may be time to carefully consider the activities you really want to participate in and to let go of those that are taking too much of your time so that you can keep a balanced life.

4. Be honest with your parents, teachers, and peers. Things just work out better when a trusting relationship can be sustained.

5. Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Your Big Brother or Sister (or any EMS staff person) can help you get to know the school better. If you don’t understand a concept, ask! Quite often, you’re not the only one who has that question!

6. Be nice to others, and they'll be nice back. Be especially welcoming to new students. Have an open mind to others' opinions and STAY AWAY FROM DRAMA - it's not worth it or who we are at EMS :)

7. Don’t procrastinate!  Divide your homework, studying, and projects into manageable chunks and get started right away. Don’t allow distractions (phone, TV, computer and social media) until you are done with your daily goal.

8. Turn in your homework on time. If you have trouble finishing your homework or focusing, then reward yourself when you get it all done and put away. 

9. Pay attention in class. Take notes or draw diagrams and pictures of the lesson to help you understand and remember the lesson.

10. Continue to seek Jesus as you go throughout the year. Allow Him to shine through you as you interact with your peers, teachers and parents.

Some ideas adapted from:

http://www.wikihow.com/Be-a-Success-in-Middle-School