How to Do Well in Junior High

Making the transition from elementary school to junior high school often intimidates and frightens children. A larger school, switching classes, new faces and a more difficult work load can make even the best students flounder for a while. It takes some patience and perseverance, but every student can take this opportunity to start fresh and succeed in junior high.

Instructions

Difficulty: Challenging

1. Learn all you can about the new school. Junior high is bound to be different from elementary school in both rules and curriculum. Students should read every bit of information that's sent home to become familiar with new expectations.
2. Establish good relationships with teachers and counselors. Both parents and students should communicate with school personnel even if there isn't a concern. Checking in periodically reinforces expectations and keep track of progress.
3. Develop a workable homework routine. Homework at the junior high level takes more time and requires more organization, so invest in a planner and block out enough time to do a good job. Students need to invest more time in homework, so schedules that worked in the past may need some adjusting.
4. Explore new extracurricular activities. Now's the time when students start to learn more about themselves, what they enjoy and which interests they excel at. Junior high is a great time to try out a new sport, instrument or club; a new school means a new beginning.
5. Attend classes regularly and be prepared. Nothing will sabotage a budding academic career quicker than poor class attendance or coming in without the work done. Copying someone's class notes doesn't let a student get the full lecture experience, and missing an assignment puts a student behind.
6. Talk regularly with each other. At this stage in life, it's natural for teenagers to pull away from their parents and for parents to feel sad about this separation. Try to survive growing pains and share your junior high experiences as a means of making these years easier.
7. Seek help early when necessary. If a student is feeling overwhelmed, depressed or like an outcast, it's time to visit the junior high guidance counselor. She has the experience to either give needed assistance or to make a referral.

Tips & Warnings

• Students should surround themselves with positive influences and role models during junior high years.