As we roll into that long winter break the question is how to keep the spirit of learning alive while still enjoying the atmosphere of festivities. The holiday season offers a unique opportunity to blend education with the excitement of traditions. Here are some educational ideas that ensure fun, festivities and fill some of that time! 1. **Festive Storytime: Cultivating a Love for Reading** To help keep reading and vocabulary forefront, transform your living room into a cozy storytelling nook, and select a series of holiday-themed books that reflect diverse cultures and traditions. This also opens windows to different world-views. Choose stories like “The Polar Express” or “Dream Snow” for younger children, while older kids might appreciate “A Christmas Carol” or tales about Diwali or Hanukkah. Encourage discussion by asking questions about characters, their motivations, and lessons embedded within. This creates family time as well as fostering imagination. For a more festive feel have the children reenact the story. 2. **Crafting Memories: Hands-On Learning** Try introducing DIY craft projects that align with holiday themes. This could involve making homemade ornaments, holiday cards, or even festive décor that highlights traditions from around the world. For older children, consider more advanced crafts such as sewing festive stockings or woodworking projects. Through these activities, children will enhance their fine motor skills and learn about the significance and history behind various holiday crafts. These projects might even spark deeper conversations about the importance of giving and creativity! 3. **Culinary Chemistry: Cooking as Education** The kitchen becomes a fantastic lab during the holidays! Invite your children to join you in cooking holiday treats, such as gingerbread cookies or a traditional family recipe passed down through generations. Discuss the science behind each ingredient—how baking soda acts as a leavening agent or why certain cookies stay chewy. Encourage them to measure ingredients, exploring fractions and ratios, and discussing the importance of measurements in recipes. 4. **Cultural Discovery: A Global Holiday Tour** Take an armchair trip around the world! Use this holiday season as an opportunity to explore global customs and traditions. Dedicate a day to each country, learning about its holiday celebrations, foods, music, and even language. For instance, you could experience Kwanzaa by discussing its significance and sharing poetry, or learn about Carnival in Brazil with vibrant music and costumes. You can even create a simple passport for each child to “stamp” as they “travel” to different countries, creating a sense of adventure as they learn. 5. **Nature Walks and Winter Science** Embrace the beauty of winter and take learning outdoors. Plan nature walks to observe the changes that the season brings. Encourage your children to gather various nature items—like pinecones, leaves, or interesting stones—and discuss the ecosystems they belong to. Back at home, engage in science experiments that utilize winter elements, such as freezing bubbles or growing icicles. It’s an excellent way to discuss concepts like temperature, states of matter, or even animal hibernation. 6. **Interactive Technology: Learning Through Play** Consider incorporating educational technology within your holiday schedule. There are numerous apps and online platforms designed to make learning engaging and fun. Set aside some time for your children to explore coding games, math puzzles, or language challenges that not only entertain but educate as well. Moreover, involve family members in friendly competitions or collaborative projects, ensuring technology is employed as a tool for connection rather than a solitary pursuit. 7. **Gratitude Journaling: Reflection and Growth** Encourage your children to reflect on their year and share what they are thankful for through gratitude journals. Use notebooks they pick out as a medium for them to express their thoughts, doodles, or drawings. This practice not only enhances writing skills but also promotes emotional intelligence and mindfulness. At the end of the holiday season, gather as a family to share your favorite entries comprehensively, making space for dialogue about personal growth and aspirations for the new year. The holiday season is a vibrant time making it easier to get your kids to engage in educational activities. Let the holiday spirit ignite your imagination and curiosity.
Whether you are a math fan or not, Math education has seen some challenges and transformations. Due to the solitary nature of math, math anxieties, and a reach for more effective methods, educators are turning to innovative teaching methods that emphasize engagement and understanding over rote memorization. Obviously technology and new platforms are on the rise but I’m particularly excited about the incorporation of project-based learning (PBL), where students tackle real-world problems that require mathematical reasoning. For instance, a project might involve analyzing local water usage data to propose sustainable practices— allowing students to apply their math skills while also addressing community issues. This context-driven approach enhances understanding but also makes learning more relevant and exciting. My other favorite trend is the focus on collaborative learning. Classrooms are increasingly being designed to encourage teamwork, where students work together to solve problems, share diverse perspectives, and communicate their thought processes. Which brings us to……… The Rise of Math Clubs In recent years, math clubs have blossomed in schools, colleges, and even community centers, providing a space for students of all ages to congregate and explore the beauty of mathematics together. The sense of belonging in a club setting transforms the way students approach mathematics; it becomes less about memorization and more about discovery and collaboration. Competitions Across the Nation Math competitions provide an exciting platform in the math club experience. From local contests to national tournaments, several noteworthy competitions are gathering popularity across the United States: 1. **Mathcounts**: Targeting middle school students, Mathcounts is fun and rigorously challenging. Schools across the nation hold local level competitions, and the best students advance to state and national levels. Participants engage in sprint and target rounds, highlighting speed and problem-solving prowess. This fires up a competitive spirit. 2. **American Mathematics Competitions (AMC)**: The AMC is a series of examinations organized by the Mathematical Association of America for high school students. It includes the AMC 10 and AMC 12, inviting for top scorers to compete in the prestigious AIME (American Invitational Mathematics Examination). These competitions are revered for their challenging problems that stimulate critical thinking and creative problem-solving skills. 3. **The Putnam Competition**: For undergraduate students in North America, the William Lowell Putnam Mathematical Competition is the top line for math fans. Held annually, the exam consists of problems that testing mathematical creativity and ingenuity, attracting top talents from universities across the continent. 4. **BMO and USA JMO**: The British Mathematical Olympiad (BMO) and the USA Junior Mathematical Olympiad (USA JMO) are elite competitions that nurture future mathematical leaders. Aimed at students with exceptional problem-solving talents, they present complex challenges inspiring thorough and innovative thinking. 5. **Online Challenges**: With the rise of technology, numerous online math competitions have gained popularity. Platforms like Art of Problem Solving (AoPS) host various contests that allow students from different backgrounds and geographical locations to compete, interact, and learn from one another in a virtual arena. Math clubs and competitions can significantly bolster students’ academic profiles. For high schoolers, participating in competitions can be a distinguishing factor in college applications, highlighting a commitment and an aptitude for analytical reasoning. Furthermore, the resilience developed through tackling challenging problems nurtures a growth mindset, enabling students to view failures as stepping stones toward success. While schools play a crucial role in shaping math education, the involvement of parents and communities cannot be understated. If you or your student needs help with their math skills or prepping for a math competition Elite Tutoring is here to help!
What Universities Look for in Personal Essays for Admission When it comes to applying to universities, the personal essay is one of the most CRITICAL components of your application. It is not all about the academics! A compelling personal essay can be the difference between acceptance and rejection-and it should be just that; Personal. The temptation to create an essay that sounds like a resume is common, but it is an opportunity to showcase individuality, values, and experiences. This opportunity is what creates an investment and connection between you and your school of choice. 6 KEY ELEMENTS TO A STANDOUT ESSAY Authenticity and Self-Reflection The foremost quality an admissions officer seeks in personal essays is AUTHENTICITY. They want to hear your genuine voice, your unique perspective, and your heartfelt stories. Reflect deeply on your experiences, the triumphs AND the challenges, and convey what you’ve learned from them. Authenticity demonstrates your ability to introspect and grow. Avoid clichés and overused phrases, and instead focus on sincere moments that truly shaped who you are. A Strong Opening and Honest Narrative First impressions matter, especially in personal essays. First, Stick with the Prompt! Those prompts are given for a reason. Starting with a hook is great, use an intriguing anecdote, a thought-provoking question, or a vivid description but make sure it aligns with the prompt. As you develop your narrative, ensure it flows logically, leading the reader through your journey without losing focus. A stand out narrative can transform mundane experiences into pivotal moments, let the admissions committee into your world. Admission committees are reading MANY essays so use sensory details and emotional depth to help keep your readers engaged. Clarity of Purpose and Passion Your personal essay should clearly set out your goals and aspirations. Admissions want to understand your motivation for pursuing a particular field or attending a specific institution. Share your passions and how they have influenced your academic goals. Mention a mentor who inspired you or a specific experience that fueled your interest in a subject. Use vivid storytelling to highlight how these elements contribute to your vision. Resilience and Growth Mindset Universities not only appreciate stories of success but also those of adversity. Demonstrating resilience in the face of challenges can provide insight into your character and determination. Share times that you faced obstacles, whether in your personal life, academic pursuits, or extracurricular endeavors, and emphasize how you overcame them. Reflect on what those experiences taught you and how they propelled your growth. Admissions officers value candidates who possess a growth mindset and are willing to learn from setbacks. Connection to the University’s Values Research the universities you are applying to and identify their core values and missions. Your personal essay should reflect a connection between your values and those of the university. What draws you to this institution? How do its programs, culture, and community align with your goals? Pinpoint specific aspects of the university that resonate with you, whether it’s a professor whose work inspires you, a unique program that suits your interests, or a vibrant campus community that you wish to be a part of. This tailored approach demonstrates your enthusiasm and interest in the school. Insight into Your Character Ultimately, your personal essay should provide admissions officers with insight into who you are beyond your grades and test scores. Consider what you want them to know about you that isn’t evident in other parts of your application. Your values, experiences, and how you interact with the world around you ALL contribute to your identity. Whether through your relationships, volunteer work, or personal interests, share stories that highlight your character and how you contribute to your community. A holistic view of your personality can set you apart from other applicants! IN SHORT…. The personal essay is not merely a requirement in the college application process; it is an opportunity to show who you REALLY are. Again, they are not just looking for an applicant with a perfect GPA but a well-rounded individual who can add richness to their campus community, so emphasize authenticity, clarity of purpose, resilience, and connection to the university. AND DO NOT START THE NIGHT BEFORE! Take the time to write thoughtfully, reflect deeply, and showcase yourself. Your story is your greatest asset; let it shine through! And of course, we at Elite are here to help you.
Staying on top of University Admission changes is the key. As our schools are going through a new phase of education development due to societal changes, technological innovations, and global events, University Admissions are following suit. If you are looking towards the next step in the higher education journey, it is essential to understand and be prepared for what your dream schools are looking for. Test Optional Policies Increasing numbers of colleges and universities are adopting test-optional or test-blind admissions policies, meaning standardized tests (ie; SAT or ACT) are no longer mandatory for applicants. The idea is to create a more equitable and comprehensive evaluation process. Schools have begun focusing on other aspects, including high school GPA, recommendation letters, strong personal essays, and extracurricular activities, which provide a more complete view of a student’s capabilities and character. And though this is less pressure in terms of test taking, it also means that keeping a GPA up, things such as community service, and writing the perfect essay will need to be thought about well in advance. What does Holistic Admissions Mean? In line with the test-optional trend, there is a move towards holistic admissions processes. In other words, Institutions are seeking well-rounded candidates; diverse experiences, perspectives, and talents. This encourages students to showcase not only their academic achievements but their personal narratives, leadership roles, community service, and unique talents. Applicants are encouraged to write compelling and resonating personal stories, highlighting how their experiences shape their goals. Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Universities are actively pursuing diverse student bodies and creating new measures for underrepresented groups to have more fair access. There are more initiatives designed to recruit students from marginalized backgrounds, and to support first-generation college students and those from lower socioeconomic brackets. DEI enriches the academic environment and fosters a sense of community that values varied perspectives and experiences. Technology in the Admissions Process With virtual campus tours, online info sessions, and remote interviews, students are finding new ways to interact with prospective colleges. Additionally, admissions offices are utilizing data analytics to refine recruitment strategies. Self-service admission portals enable students to track their applications in real-time, allowing for transparency and communication throughout the process. AI tools are becoming more prevalent, which help streamline application reviews and reduce the workload on admissions teams, so there is more time for personalized admissions decisions. Community College Pathways Because of economic pressures, community colleges are being viewed as a viable and strategic pathway to a four-year degree. There are more expanded partnerships between community colleges and universities, so students can seamlessly transfer with earned credits, and lower tuition costs. These pathways are more financially viable but also a great launching pad for students needing flexibility and support in academic achievments. A Global Campus As the world becomes more interconnected, there is a rising influx of international applicants. Universities are revising admissions strategies to accommodate a more global perspective, such as alternative assessment methods and support services for non-native English speakers. International students bring rich cultural diversity and broaden perspectives for the working future. Mental Health and Well-Being Recognizing the anxiety young people face, admissions offices are beginning to engage with the broader psychological aspects of the college experience, and many institutions are offering resources for emotional support during the stressful application period and throughout their University years. What Does This Mean for You and Your Student? For students contemplating their futures, staying informed about the trends is crucial. By preparing at early stages for the growing emphasis on holistic evaluations, students can navigate the somewhat overwhelming process with confidence. At Elite Tutoring we can help create a game plan to maintain commendable GPA’s, prepare for standardized tests, and write admissions essays armed with insights that can help make their applications stand out in an ever-competitive environment.
The SAT, has recently transitioned to a digital format, creating a significant shift in how students prepare for and experience this examination. The change is targeted to enhance the efficiency and accessibility of the test, and to align more closely with contemporary educational practices and the needs of the modern learner. Understanding the Transition The College Board, (the organization behind the SAT), announced that the 2024 SAT’s will be in a digital format, with the goal of creating a more user-friendly, and secure testing environment. This transition was determined by feedback from educators, students, and colleges regarding the need for a more adaptable testing format. For better or for worse, as students are increasingly learning in digital environments— the SAT had to evolve to mirror these changes. The Advantages to the Digital SAT One of the most apparent changes is that the digital SAT will be a shorter test: it is now approximately two hours compared to the previous 3 hours. The traditional SAT was lengthy and sometimes caused fatigue, or focus issues among test-takers. So the new format is purportedly more focused allowing for more efficient assessments. However, it is important to note still covers the same core areas: Reading, Writing and Language, and Math. A surprising feature of the digital SAT is that it will incorporate a “computer-adaptive” model, meaning that the difficulty of questions can adjust in real-time based on a student’s responses. So, if a student answers a question correctly, the next question will likely be more challenging, likewise, if a student gets a question wrong, the next one will be slightly easier. The idea is to provide a more personalized assessment of each student’s capabilities, while creating a more but accurate measurement of their particular knowledge and skills, creating a shorter test. However, it is important to note that students who get the easier second section won’t be able to get the highest score of 1600. The new digital format also allows for accessibility features, like screen magnification, text-to-speech, and the option for extended time so that students with disabilities will receive the support they need to perform their highest scores. Enhanced Security and Integrity The College Board has enforced measures to safeguard against cheating and ensure the authenticity of each test-taker’s work. Biometric checks and randomized question pools will help maintain the reliability of scores while providing a fair testing environment for all students. HOW DO YOU PREPARE FOR THE NEW FORMAT? Many resources will adapt to incorporate the digital format, practice tests and preparatory materials will be done on a computer so the student is comfortable with the technology. For the most part studying and preparing for the actual material remains the same with 2 noted difference. *Rather than nine long passages with multiple questions, students will read more than 50 short reading passages, with a single question each. *Students can use a built-in graphing calculator on the entire test rather than having separate calculator and non-calculator sections. HOW THE TEST IS ADMINISTERED The test can be taken on a school issued or personal device, however it cannot be taken at home or on a cell phone. If a student does not have a laptop College Board will administer if you state it at registration. Students must download and take the test in the College Board’s Bluebook app. It uses minimal bandwidth and can go offline without disrupting the test- if connection is lost the work should be saved and re-encrypted until the connection is restored.As students won’t necessarily have to travel to designated test centers, the SAT more accessible to a larger pool of test-takers. Check with your schools and College Board as to your options for location.*Students should get their results in a few days, rather than waiting weeks. In conclusion, this is a step towards greater educational equity. By moving toward a digital format, which can be more easily administered in diverse environments, the SAT can reach a broader range of students, including those in under-resourced areas. The digital format may lead to increased access to the test, as well as offering more adaptability for those who require accessibility features. And as always, Elite Tutoring has the tutors you need to help your student reach their SAT potential.
Standardized testing is a staple in educational systems, which serves as a key metric for assessing students’ knowledge and skills. While these assessments can create significant anxiety for many students, understanding how to tackle them effectively can empower you to achieve your best performance. Though it is early in the school year planning in advance is key. Here are the top tips to help plan effectively and efficiently with as little stress as possible. Understanding the Landscape of Standardized Testing It’s essential to understand the purpose and format of standardized tests. Typically designed to measure proficiency in subjects like math, reading, and writing, these tests often vary in structure, ranging from multiple-choice questions to essays and oral examinations. Familiarizing yourself with the specific tests you will take—such as SAT, ACT, or state assessments—will provide a solid foundation on which to build your preparation strategy. Start Early: Build a Preparation Timeline Preparation for standardized testing should not start in the eleventh-hour . Start planning months in advance, creating a timeline that breaks down your study tasks into manageable segments. Begin by taking a diagnostic test to identify your strengths and weaknesses. This initial assessment will help inform your study schedule, allowing you to allocate more time to the areas where you need improvement while still practicing your stronger subjects. Create a Study Plan: Structured and Flexible A structured study plan is like a roadmap, guiding you through your preparations with a blend of consistency and adaptability. Aim to incorporate various study methods, such as reviewing course materials, using online resources, and practicing with sample questions. However, allow for flexibility within this framework—life can be unpredictable, and it’s fine to adjust your schedule as needed. Consider setting specific weekly goals and tracking your progress to maintain motivation Practice Makes Perfect! One of the most effective ways to approach standardized tests is through targeted practice. Utilize official practice tests available through the test’s governing body—such as College Board or ACT. Simulating actual test conditions by timing yourself and minimizing distractions will help familiarize you with both the format and the time constraints, reducing anxiety on test day. Review your answers thoroughly, especially the incorrect ones, to understand your mistakes and improve over time. Practice Test-Taking Strategies Being knowledgeable in your subjects is important, but mastering test-taking strategies can make a significant difference in your performance. Familiarize yourself with techniques such as: **Elimination Method**: For multiple-choice questions, eliminate the answers you know are incorrect to increase the odds when guessing. **Time Management**: Keep a close eye on the clock. Allocate a specific amount of time per question and use practice tests to build your pacing skills. **Question Approach**: Read all instructions carefully and approach each question with a strategic mindset. Sometimes, the answer can be inferred from context or other questions. Mindfulness and Stress-Relief Techniques Standardized tests create stress and anxiety in even the brightest of students. Mental preparation is just as important as academic readiness. Include mindfulness techniques; deep breathing exercises, meditation, or yoga. These practices can instill a sense of calm and focus, helping you maintain a positive outlook as you approach the test. Additionally, ensure you are sleeping and eating well to sustain the extra work being done. Collaborative Learning Forming study groups or partnering with classmates creates a dynamic learning environment. Sharing insights and different problem-solving methods helps deepen your understanding of complex topics. Plus, discussing potential test questions and strategies with peers can ease the anxiety that often comes with solo studying. This can actually put a little fun into the learning. Seek Guidance from Educators! Your teachers and tutors have invaluable experience with standardized tests and can provide tailored advice and support. Don’t hesitate to ask us for clarification on topics you find challenging or for recommendations on additional resources. We are also able to offer insights into the types of questions that frequently appear on these assessments, which gives you a great deal of insight in your preparation. Test Day Preparation: As the day gets closer, shift your prep from studying content to preparing yourself mentally and physically for the exam. Be sure you have all necessary materials ready, ie; ID, admission ticket, pencils, and calculator. Get a good night’s sleep before the test and eat a healthy breakfast. Arriving at the test center early can help reduce anxiety by allowing you to familiarize to the environment. Dealing with standardized testing is about developing resilience, honing test-taking skills, and understanding how you approach and handle the process. A well rounded strategy is going to help you plan not just for the test at hand, but help you with future goals and experiences outside of school.
Record Rates of Absent Students Currently, the largest problem facing schools right now is Chronic Absenteeism. According to statistics from 2018 to 2023, the rate of absences almost doubled from 15% to 26%. Obviously, this a Post Epidemic problem that is multi-faceted and complex, but the outcome leads to learning setbacks that negatively affect you and your child. Chronic Absenteeism vs. Truancy? Because of pandemic closures, kids were learning online and in-person attendance may feel less necessary, or there may be greater confusion in terms of absentee rules. It is important to note that Chronic absenteeism is when students miss at least 10% of the school year. Truancy usually refers to unexcused absences, whereas Chronic Absence is broader and encompasses ALL absences a student may have-excused or not. These absences can lead to suspension and or expulsion so be sure to know what your school’s policy entails. Reasons for Absence Though some absences are students that are legitimately physically sick, research is finding there are a variety of reasons why children have school avoidance. 5% of students have school-related anxiety which may be linked to problems with other children, academic struggles, failure fears, and personality conflicts with a teacher. A study linked children with ADHD, autism and developmental delays as being twice as likely to be absent, and there is an ever increasing struggle with mental health issues such as depression/anxiety. All of these things can lead to a feeling of disconnection, boredom and lack of motivation adding to your child’s avoidance of school. Chronic Absence has a Negative Effect Though these are genuine emotional struggles, one should not underestimate the negative impact of chronic absences. Aside from being at a higher risk of not learning to read, falling behind, and eventually dropping out of school, the student misses out on other important provisions made by a school setting such as counseling services, important socialization skills, and ensuring daytime meals. So, what can you do when your child is resistant to going to school? TIPS to Help a Child Who Doesn’t Want to Go to School First and foremost discuss with your child why they don’t want to go to school. There may be underlying emotional reasons, maybe the students concerns need to be acknowledged and resolved with a solution based conversation. Maybe some of the reasons will require communication with the school staff, teachers, school counselor and or health professionals. You can advocate for your child while standing firm on the necessity of going to school. Don’t keep your child home unless they are actually sick. The general rule is keep your child home if there is a fever greater than 101 degrees F, an infectious illness, vomiting and or diarrhea. Be mindful that often stomachaches and headaches are based in anxiety. If they do stay home without the above physical symptoms, consider not allowing special treatment such as extra screen time. If they have other chronic health issues like epilepsy, diabetes, or asthma your school nurse can help create an IEP (individualized education program) or 504 plan. Sleep and Morning Prep reduce anxiety. Work towards ensuring your child is getting the required amount of sleep-this will reduce much of that morning fight which leads to resistance. It helps the morning go smoother if the night before clothes are picked, and lunches and bags are prepped and ready to go. It is also helpful to develop a ‘get to school strategy’ in case of bus, car or work problems that may cause challenges in getting your child to school. Help your child find extra curricular school based interests that they enjoy. Having something to look forward to in the school day, like band or robotics, gives them a common aim with fellow classmates, this bond forms necessary friendships and a sense of self. And finally, what your child may be craving is a individualized attention. One on one help can serve to get them caught up and feel confident in their academic endeavors, and provide a mentor who can help them with motivational plans and structured feedback. To help your child with all they need to stay motivated, positive and academically on track, please feel free to reach out to an Elite Tutor. We are here, we care, and we are equipped to help you.
Does your child struggle with reading comprehension? If so, know that your child is not the only one, in fact schools are struggling with literacy rates on a whole-this is why there is a current reading reform happening throughout our schools. 40 years of research, show there are ways of teaching literacy beyond phonics that are more effective in helping your young reader grasp the full meaning of any given text earlier and easier. What is the Science of Reading? In short, after years of research, it is an evidenced way of teaching students to read. The focus is developing both word recognition AND fluency of expression so that the understanding of the text is the main goal. The Main Principals: Phonemic Awareness, Phonics, Fluency, Vocabulary and Comprehension The brain of a child needs to first know the different sounds of spoken language, then connect the sounds to written letters, then blend those sounds for words-this is called decoding. In other words, reading does not come naturally! Students need to have decoding AND strong language comprehension skills to achieve reading comprehension. The structured approach of Reading Science has an overall scope and a sequence that builds on itself so that students are not feeling as though they don’t understand something that hasn’t been introduced to them yet. This structured approach helps ALL students including those with learning differences such as dyslexia. Currently many students are still learning under the balanced literary approach. Though this may work for many, the focus still tends to be on the Phonics and is developed in more macro-learning. The Science of Reading is structured within micro-learning, leaving less readers behind, especially in terms of comprehension. WHAT DOES THIS LOOK LIKE IN THE CLASSROOM? Rather than “at the right level” reading groups, there will be a use of varied, complex text for all the students. Student should be able to hear multiple reads of the same text, first modeled by the teacher. To develop fluency, there should be partnering with students and teachers engaging in conversations centered on the language of the text, the structure of what’s written, the meaning of the text and the possible deeper meanings. In it’s essence, it is a more hands on approach that starts developing critical thinking, and engages all aspects of language. WHAT CAN YOU DO TO ENSURE LITERACY FOR YOUR CHILD? Elite Tutoring can provide tutors who will be able to help you, and your child take a structured approach to literacy.
Welcome back to school! We are back to a new year of school. As we move forward, this year brings us changes and trends that may be confusing or hard to keep up with. Having an overview of some of these exciting new terms and methods will help you and your child make smoother transitions, and understand the goals of the educators using these methods. Microlearning: Long lectures that do not get revisited may overload students with the amount of information they can take in. This also requires students to have the skills to go back over that information on their own-which is not always manageable. Microlearning is a way of teaching bite-sized content (approx 3-5 min) with focused learning outcomes. Done in repetition, this way of learning allows the student to process new concepts, and gives space for the material to sink in. This has generated positive outcomes in terms of retention. Neuroeducation: Neuroeducation looks at what happens in the brain when a student learns, which in turn shows how to best stimulate the brain in education. Neuroeducation facilitates changes in the brain, like creating new neural connections. These connections transfer into new cognitive/learning structures-also known as brain plasticity-which helps with memory recall and the absorption of new data. Neuroeducation links learning with emotions and personal experience, creating hands on and group learning. It uses personal anecdotes to contextualize and motivate. It has shown that creative and game based activities spark curiosity, social interaction and a faster learning process. This creativity also reduces tension and improves focus. Social-Emotional Learning (SEL): After COVID-19, and the realization that schools are facing high absentee numbers, it became apparent that student mental health needed to be prioritized. School’s are now looking at an increased emphasis on the need for social-emotional learning. This is to support students’ well-being. SEL programs are centered on developing skills like resilience, self-awareness, interpersonal competence and empathy. Schools are recognizing that Emotional intelligence is an important factor in academic success. This is a trend that is projected to keep growing, and will help see a decrease in bullying, anxiety/stress, and absenteeism. Technology Hybrid/Blended Learning Again, the Pandemic has changed the way we see education. Covid led to integrating technology into the classroom and schools are finding new ways to continue hybrid learning as well as technology blended models. The face-to-face instruction of online elements, allows for more flexibility as well as more individualized lessons, especially for students who may have diverse needs. There is now a focus on AI augmented reality, and virtual reality. This is not students playing video games but rather being used for an immersive educational experience. Simulations can be used for recreations (history), virtual field trips, and to show complex concepts in new ways. This creates an applied learning experience which enhances critical thinking and creativity. Digital literacy, such as coding, is being taught at the earliest levels to develop what will be a greater part of their future lived experiences. Some of these Ideas may seem foreign to your personal school experience, but these changing educational models are being developed to best serve the academic and emotional well being of your child. If you feel you would like more information or help in any of these areas, please reach out to our Elite team.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is a part of our everyday lives, for better or for worse. AI in schools can create personalized learning experiences and offer help in grading. However, students are discovering that programs like ChatGpt or GPT-4 can do their homework. These programs, designed to sound human, can answer homework questions and write essays. This leads to plagiarism, reduced critical thinking skills and the necessary research for a proper education. TOP 3 WAYS TO RECOGNIZE AI WORK: You know your child best! The work will not be written in the TONE of your child. AI does not use a personal writing style, so your child’s sense of humor, irony, rhythm of speech, or personal stories, will be missing. The wording may sound a bit advanced or stilted. Trust your gut, if you think it does not sound like your child it probably is not. Is the grammar just a bit TOO perfect? Most students are not working at a perfect level. This could be a giveaway if you find no grammar or spelling mistakes. * However, AI may not follow MLA standards taught in school, and your child may forget to change the format. This will be a pretty good clue. Finally, if your child’s grades have improved, but you have not noticed extra time being put into the work or that they are working with a tutor, you may want to find out why. This may feel invasive, of course you trust your child, but because AI is so common your child may not realize that using it for homework is cheating. Teachers have many students, so they are not always able to tell when a student is using AI to do homework. Certain schools, however, have begun to use tools such as AI text classifiers. They are able to weed out AI work, and if a student is caught using AI to write an essay, it comes with the penalty of plagiarism. HOW YOU CAN HELP: Talk to your child about the importance of Independent thought. AI denies your child the gift of creativity and learning how to think critically. These skills will need to follow them into adult life. Not doing the necessary research also misses out on so much knowledge and problem-solving. Explain that ChatGPT and other such programs are responding with previously embedded information. It is not information that has been fact-checked and, therefore, may be incorrect. This is not a research tool Talk to them about academic integrity. Inform them that not using their own work is plagiarism and cheating. Let them know the repercussions of being caught. Finally, explain that schools and teachers are becoming more savvy about detecting work done by ChatGPT. If they are not using an AI text classifier, the teachers are much more aware of what to look out for.
SUMMER READING CHALLENGES AND WRITING COMPETITIONS We are at that summer midway point. Which also means finding new ways to keep your child engaged and active in their minds. There are many summer camps out there, but there are also plenty of resources at your finger tips. Summer reading and writing prevents learning loss while maintaining a sense of play and imagination. As it may be difficult to be self-motivated without deadlines or a social group, I have included some wonderful online Reading Challenges and Writing Competitions for your child to enter. After an exhaustive search, I have compiled some of the best and recent (2024) sources that will link you directly to the challenge and competition sites. Of course any of our tutors can help guide your child through any of the summer reading and writing challenges they choose, or we can personalize a plan for them. ******* READING CHALLENGES: Scholastic offers a summer challenge for children ages 3-13. There are 10 downloadable badges for goal completions as well as book lists according to age. https://www.scholastic.com/parents/books-and-reading/raise-a-reader-blog/reading-challenges-kids.html PBS Kids for Parents Summer Adventure has reading charts, and activity ideas It also has math activities and out door adventure ideas. https://www.pbs.org/parents/summer The New York Times challenge has students read any 2024 article published in their paper and kids can write in, or even video their response. They publicly list the winners-The New York Times! The National Education Society has an amazing source of information to help you raise your readers. Amongst many, their list of summer reading challenges includes Barnes and Noble summer reading program where you can receive a free book, and Pizza Hut’s ‘Camp Book It’. https://www.nea.org/resource-library/get-serious-about-summer-reading Don’t forget to check your local libraries, many have summer reading challenges of their own! ******** WRITING COMPETITIONS: Writing competitions deliver a fun angle to writing. They deliver prompts, deadlines, the feeling of being linked into other’s writing and do you need an extra motivator?! Many come attached with cash prizes! We Are Teachers is a personal favorite site offering some of the best writing competitions for students up to age 18. https://www.weareteachers.com/student-writing-contests/ The National Youth Foundation is geared towards diversity and empowerment and has 4 competitions: “I Matter” poetry and art, Amazing Women’s Edition, Youth Writing Workshop and Student Book Scholars Contest. The site also offers a library of the past winners works to read. A very positive site! https://www.nationalyouthfoundation.org/our-programs If you love the idea of having your child published you can go to Young Writers USA. https://www.youngwritersusa.com/contests And two other helpful sites with informative lists of competitions: Aralia -Top 9 Writing Competitions: New Pages: https://www.newpages.com/young-writers-guide/young-writers-guide-to-contests/#July
Did you know that 84% of Americans will celebrate the 4th of July and that 150 million hot dogs will be eaten?! The 4th of July is not just a day of BBQ’s, Beaches and Books with a BANG, but a day to spend quality time with friends and family. So to help you and your family get into the Spirit of 1776, we’ve put together some fun facts so you can show off your Independence Day smarts with our Stars and Stripes Trivia. A little warm up. Did you know… America actually declared independence on July 2, 1776 . That was the day delegates from the Thirteen Colonies met (The Second Continental Congress) to approve a resolution for independence from Britian……that’s right, the Declaration of Independence. It was officially approved on the 4th. 2 of the signers of the Declaration of Independence became President, and in a strange twist of fun fact history, Thomas Jefferson, 82 and John Adams, 90 both passed away on July 4th, 1826 within five hours of each other on the 50th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. STARS AND STRIPES TRIVIA (answers at the bottom of page) 1. How many people signed the Declaration of Independence? 2. What year were fireworks first used to celebrate Independence Day? 3.How much money do Americans spend on fireworks every year? 4. How many stars and stripes does the US flag have? 5. Who designed the 50 star flag? 6. In Philadelphia, Pa. The Liberty Bell is rung how many times on the 4th of July? 7. Can you name the Thirteen Colonies? 8. What is the USA’s national animal? 9. **Bonus Question: Guess which company just got on the 2024 Best Service list on Newsweek? We did! (Cue Fireworks!) So If you need help with some of that American History or helping your Summer Scholars with their Independent learning, Flag up an award winning company. We are here and look forward to hearing from you! ANSWER KEY 1) 56 2)1777 – the very first year the 4th of July was celebrated. 3) Americans spend more than 1 billion on fireworks each year! 4) 50 stars for States and 13 stripes for Colonies. 5) Though there are contending stories on who designed the original flag, the 50 stars (changed for Hawaii and Alaska) was designed by 16 year old Robert G. Heft of Ohio, as a history class assignment…for which he got a B-. Don’t worry when his design was accepted by the White House his grade was changed to an A! 6) 13 times-One ring for each Colony 7)Connecticut, Delaware, Georgia, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, and Virginia. 8) American bison. The bald eagle is the national bird.
Now that school has started, I am here to make sure that all of your History needs are met. If you are enrolled in any of the below listed classes, then I am the tutor for you: 8th grade U.S. History, World History, AP World History, U.S. History, Honors U.S. History, AP U.S. History, Government/Civics & AP Government/Civics. Contact Elite Tutoring today to schedule your free virtual introductory session, but don’t wait too long and rely on cramming or memorization, because those methods are definitely not as successful as 1-on-1 tutoring. Just request Michael G.!
High School is a busy time of classes, extracurricular’s, new found social lives and a need to start thinking about the future. You may find you and your family trying to swim through the murky waters of ‘What is Next?’. Thinking about college prep whilst maintaining daily life can be overwhelming and you may be wondering if AP courses are simply too much. The truth is, it is a personal decision that only you can determine but it’s helpful to know the AP ins and outs before deciding. First of all, what are AP classes? AP classes are advanced placement classes to introduce high school students to college level classes designed by the College Board. Since these classes are more challenging than high school courses it allows students to attain college credits. BUT to get the credit the student must pass the AP exam based on everything they have learned throughout the year. The tests are through the school or College Board in May. (https://apstudents.collegeboard.org/exam-calendar) Do you need to take AP classes to get into college? Short answer- no. HOWEVER, and this is a large however, students with AP courses on their transcripts have greater acceptance rates. One of the most important aspects of the college acceptance process is your transcript. Taking the AP COURSES reflects heavier than the AP exam scores. For the most part the exam scores will not actually make or break you but colleges like evidence that you can excel in difficult classes and that the student has challenged themselves. AP courses show admissions that a student is prepared to do college level work. Yes, but what about the Exam? Do colleges need that? Normally you do not need to send AP scores to the universities you are applying for. That said, some schools will put space on the application for you to self- report the AP scores. Those scores will be seen by college admissions officers. *Note: If you have low scores it is advised to not report them on the application. There are some schools that are more flexible and may allow you to substitute your SAT or ACT so if you have high AP exams maybe that is something to look into. Can I take the classes without the test? Can I take the test without the classes? Students are not required to take the courses. A student can sign up to take an AP test in any subject. BUT taking the course definitely prepares them for the exam and speaks to their level of commitment. On the same note, a student can take the courses and not take the exam. How does the AP Exam work? According to the College Board, AP Exams are created and scored by teams of AP teachers and college professors. The exams are scored from 1 to 5 in which a score above 3 is considered passing. Some schools however only accept 4’s and 5’s for credit. The test usually takes two to three hours to complete and usually consist of essay questions and multiple-choice questions. Each subject area test is offered in May. If a student does not pass they cannot take it again until the following year. All AP tests need to be taken before the student graduates. Students pay for the AP tests out of pocket ( however, in some lower-income may be able to receive funding) Weighing up all the benefits. 1) College Board states that over 90 percent of colleges and universities in the U.S. will grant college credit for AP coursework and passing test scores. In other words, you will be able to save time and tuition money because your free high school AP class served as credit for what you would have had to have taken as a foundational college course. 2) Good AP scores can help garnish scholarships. 3) AP classes prepare a student for the demands of college. This will make the transition from high school to college just that much easier. 4) A College admission leg up. High AP scores (4 & 5’s) may help you to stand out from the other students, when any bit of advantage counts. 5) Many high schools give extra weight to AP classes leading to improved GPA’s. B’s in an AP class would be considered higher than getting an A in a regular high school course. Are there disadvantages to AP courses? The important thing to remember is your own level of burn-out. The course load can be heavy so you have to make sure that you can remain in balance. Extracurricular activities are also important to a college admission as well as good for ones self interest. Community investment also looks good on the application and is good for the soul. If you take on too many AP classes they can work against you. The heavily weighted grades can really hurt your GPA is you start receiving C’s and D’s. Low AP exam scores can also alert institutions-however, to reiterate, you do not have to report your low scores. Final Thoughts While on paper the benefits to AP classes outweigh the negative, knowing what you can and cannot handle is just as an important part of the learning process. There is no judgement in having solid grades in the normal high school courses. For AP exam overview and scheduling: https://apstudents.collegeboard.org/ap-exams-overview
So, we’re a few weeks into school, the newness has worn off and now we are faced with reality—how do we keep the kids motivated to do their homework?! Lack of motivation is not the same as lazy! First let’s talk about Motivation, or lack thereof. Lack of motivation does not mean a child is lazy, a common reason that kids lack motivation is because they are having problems with academic skills. It is possible they have a learning difference such as executive functions or dyslexia or maybe they are challenged with anxiety or ADHD. Maybe the work isn’t challenging enough or their learning style isn’t being addressed. It could simply be low confidence. Point being, there is usually a reason for lack of motivation and pinpointing it is going to make a world of difference. Another thing to keep in mind about motivation is that kids like having a degree of agency and autonomy. They want to work on projects that feel personal-at least in the choices of how it gets done. The more pro-active a child can feel in the process the easier it is to keep them engaged. Let your child/teen talk to you about what they feel works for them. Co-Planning Study Time It’s good to have structure for both your kid/young adult and you. So make a plan together on how best to stay on top of the school year. You and your child should set out a plan of action that includes: The time of day the homework gets done, and how much time should be spent studying. How to prioritize weekly assignments. How often are breaks taken and what do they include? ie; going for a walk or run, maybe a snack and drink. What sort of a reward system should be built in? Maybe a favorite treat or screen time. Anything your child feels is worth putting effort into! How to keep the stress at bay. Again maybe walks (exercise should definitely be encouraged), time with a pet, music, etc. Making sure this is all implemented. Do you use timers, or color coded calendars, or what system works for your kid? Minimize frustration for yourself as the parent! Try to focus on what is being learned rather than the outcome of test grades. Progress not perfection is the adage. Kids (and teens) learn at different paces, so don’t forget to be aware of the little steps and enjoy watching the process happen. Check in and talk to your kid about how they are feeling about the work. Promote and encourage small bite sized goals versus “you must get all A’s”. In the end there will be less of a fight for you and your family and a greater sense of pride and desire to achieve in your son or daughter. CREATE THE WORKSPACE As a tutor who spends time in the homes of my students, I can say another motivational factor that often gets overlooked is the actual workspace. “A learning space involves educational, environmental, physical (engineering), and socio-emotional factors to maximize learning potential.” A space created for work determines attitude. I am not just referring to a desk space, but a space designed with the intention of motivated, creative, stress-free learning. Make sure this space has no distractions. No TV, people in and out, little siblings, video games etc. Let your child choose the space. Maybe there is a hall or closet they love. Maybe their bedroom is best. ALSO, make sure they have good light. Low light is bad for the eyes and may make them drowsy or fidgety. Make a comfortable zone, flat workspaces with lots of space for pens and paper, shelves, comfy chairs. DO not use beds, this is uncomfortable and makes the student sleepy. Calendars and visuals and organizing boxes to keep it clutter free help. Make sure all the necessary tools are at hand (calculators, scissors etc. Talk to your child about what tools they may need). Let the student decorate the space with their touches. They are the ones that need to feel part of it and inspired in. Finally, the last tip is don’t do their work for them! Guide them, make suggestions but let them learn. If motivation continues to be a problem don’t be afraid to get help. Talk to teachers, tutors, maybe even Drs. to determine if there is a learning challenge that needs to be addressed.
Halloween has long been a big ‘to-do’ holiday in the States. I grew up with homemade costumes, pillow cases of candy, carved pumpkins and in school Halloween parties. But like fall, change is in the air and the idea of Halloween celebrations in the classroom is changing. School districts have begun cancelling Halloween. As an educator I like to put topics on the table to view from all angles. This is not an opinion piece but a chance to explore the conversation academically. If I was a math teacher I would take this opportunity to create a pie chart (pumpkin of course) of pros and cons. However, as this is a blog I will simply lay out some of the elemental concerns on both sides of the fence. BUT FIRST A LITTLE HISTORICAL CONTEXT: Halloween has its origins in the Celtic Festival Samhain, which marked the end of the harvest season (Oct. 31st would be the celebration eve and November 1st the end of Harvest). The belief was that during Samhain the ‘spirits’ or ‘souls’ of the deceased would go to their old homes looking for hospitality and a meal and the Celts would appease them with food and drink to ensure that they and their livestock survived the dark winter months. One could say they were “warding off the evil spirits”. In the 8th or 9th century the Christian church decreed the ‘Feast of All Saints’ (which had been in May) be moved to Nov. 1st. The pre-eve vigil became “All Hallows Even,” or “Hallowe’en”–the roots of the Halloween we know today. WHY NOW NO-WEEN? REASON 1 -RELIGIOUS CONCERNS Long answer short, as a nation we have children from a myriad of ethnic and religious backgrounds in our schools. Many Evangelical Christians feel the holiday is pagan and is seen as celebrating the devil. Conservative Muslims also believe it represents “shaytan“(the devil) and is forbidden (haram), and Jews who are observant of their religion, do not celebrate Halloween as a holiday because it has non-Jewish roots. All in all the holiday has become a part of our on going Church/State debate. It is argued that schools have always celebrated Halloween as a secular holiday and therefore religion should have no place in the debate. But the concern stands: Halloween activities will alienate children and staff who do not celebrate for personal/religious reasons. REASON 2 -ECONOMIC SENSITIVITY Not all families are able to afford costumes. Some students have the money for elaborate costumes, while others will be teased for not having the money to buy any. REASON 3 -INAPPROPRIATE COSTUMES With some children, putting on a costume entails donning a character’s attitude. Teachers have experienced behavioral problems in children wearing costumes that involve violent or action based characters REASON 4 -TOO MUCH CANDY Straight up too much candy! People are concerned that between obesity and Attention Deficit Disorders, school Halloween festivities are adding to the problem with copious amounts of sugar. Pro-Ween While there are some who believe school should be for educational purposes only, there are many parents who feel that fun is part of the education. They believe Halloween parties promote creativity and a break from the mundane and grind of school work. Pro-ween parents say Halloween is a learning tool. It offers the opportunity to have creative lessons discussing different religions, cultural beliefs, and celebrations. The idea being rather than negating a cultural celebration, schools should find ways to be more inclusive and incorporate more and lesser known religious/cultural celebrations. In the same vein, many feel this is a holiday in which kids from all economic backgrounds can feel included. One solution would be creating costumes in school. A portion of art time can be dedicated to costume design and useful skills such as sewing. THE FINAL DECISION At the end of the day, it is the school that gets to decide. In these cases, there will always be someone who is not happy with the final choice. Please try to respect all sides and all decisions. If the school chooses not to have festivities, you can have them at home. If the school chooses to have festivities, maybe there is a quiet room your child can go to or you have an at home day. Either way, sit back and enjoy that pumpkin spiced tea!
As we start shifting our focus to the upcoming school year, parents start asking me about when and how their kids should start college prepping. They want to know if AP classes are the right choice, when SAT prepping should start to happen, can they study for ISEE at the same time as PSAT,etc. So many acronyms create so much worry! I promise we will look at preparing for AP (Advanced Placement) and studying for the ISEE (Independent School Entrance Examination) in my next couple of blogs. For today, let’s breakdown PSAT, SAT, and ACT. These are all standardized exams used for college admissions and designed to demonstrate college readiness. They are multiple choice and done with pencil and paper. The SAT and ACT are an important and necessary factor with most college admissions. THE PSAT (short for Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test) https://www.collegeboard.org IN short, the PSAT is a practice SAT. It is most often taken by high school Juniors. However, one can take the PSAT a total of three times in high school, but only once per year, so you can start as early as Freshman or Sophomore. PSAT is a little easier than the SAT and there is a little more time to answer the math questions, however the test itself is about 15 minutes shorter than the SAT. They have similar questions, but the scoring is different. The PSAT scores between 320 and 1520 while the SAT is between 400 and 1600. Of course the real question is, ‘Is it necessary?’ The PSAT helps predict SAT scores. It highlights what needs to be focused on when studying for the SAT. The other important thing to know; PSAT scores are used for awarding National Merit Scholarships. (https://www.nationalmerit.org/s/1758/interior.aspx?sid=1758&gid=2&pgid=424). PSAT’s are not required and will not have a negative impact on college admissions. Some colleges will use the PSAT scores as part of their recruitment, but for the most part PSAT’s are used as a great opportunity for growth and possible scholarship if a student qualifies (scores need to be at least 1420 to 1480 to qualify). THE SAT (previously stood forScholastic Assessment Test) https://www.collegeboard.org College Board offers the SAT six times a year: October, November, December, January, May and June. There is a fee per exam but it’s best to check the College Board site for current prices and be sure to pre-register about a month ahead. The SAT is 3 hours long. There are a 154 questions and a reading test that takes 65 minutes, a 35-minute writing and language test and an 80-minute math section The SAT does not include an independent science section but incorporates science questions throughout the exam. * There is no longer SAT Essay or SAT Subject tests THE ACT (American College Testing) https://www.act.org ACT is offered 4 times per year- Sept., Oct., Dec., and Feb. It is also necessary to pre-register and check the fee on the ACT site. ACT lasts two hours and 55 minutes, plus the ACT continues to offer its optional 40-minute writing test that accompanies the exam. There are 215 questions and the ACT is comprised of a 35-minute reading test, 45-minute English test, 60-minute math section and 35-minute science test. ONE IS NOT EASIER THAN THE OTHER! All US colleges and universities accept scores from either the ACT or SAT, and ONE IS NOT MORE IMPORTANT THAN THE OTHER. (BE AWARE: Check your state. The necessity of SAT or ACT actually does change per/state.) BUT there are some personal choice differences. My top 5 FUNDAMENTAL PERSONAL CHOICE differences: On the reading section the SAT has evidence supports questions, meaning two part questions where one question supports another. If you don’t get the first one right you probably wont get the second one right. ACT does not have these. However ACT does NOT stick to questions in chronological order like the SAT-meaning it might be easier to find the answers in the SAT reading passage as the questions go in order of the reading. ACT is a little more focused on grammar, punctuation and structure as well as big picture questions. While the SAT is a little more vocabulary and writing style focused. However if the student’s strength lies in writing, the ACT optional essay allows the student to analyze a passage and give their own opinion on the topic discussed. 3. SAT has less of a time crunch, more time to answer each questions means less stress for each question. But the scoring and questions are more diffused so a student cannot move quickly go through a section they are more confident in. 4. If you are a Science person ACT’s science section is 1/4 of total score. SAT does not have a designated science section. 5. If you are a Math person, it accounts for 1/2 of the total SAT score but only 1/4 for ACT. *THINGS TO KNOW ABOUT THE MATH DIFFERENCES The SAT does have some math questions that are not multiple choice-the student will need to fill in their own answers. With the multiple choice there are 5 answer choices on SAT vs. 4 on ACT. Meaning if you need to guess there is a higher chance of getting the answer on the SAT. SAT does have diagram of math formulas, on ACT you have to remember them. There is a larger emphasis on geometry and trig on the ACT. While SAT is more algebra and data analysis focused. ****There is a school of thought that believes most math based students prefer the SAT and the English Language Arts student prefer the ACT. Really the best way to help a student make a decision is take the full-length practice tests for each. Then put the time into studying the one that puts them into the highest percentile. Either way students test scores are going to be better with study and practice!
Education is a timely and costly endeavor. In elementary school students are prepping for the challenges of middle school. Once in middle school they are looking towards the right high school. In high school they are preparing for University! Since the average family does not have a cache of spare time or money, maneuvering the sea of scholarships and grants becomes a time-consuming headache. WHERE TO BEGIN?? First, let’s start with grant vs. scholarship. Grants are given according to financial need, meaning they are usually reserved for lower income families. Grants are given by schools, nonprofits, states, and the federal government. For federal aid go to the FAFSA website (https://studentaid.gov). *The application deadline this year is Oct. 31st. Scholarships are different in that they are based on particular qualities or academic acumen. As there are many scholarships the real time saving trick is “Know Thy Self”. What makes your student uniquely them? When you hone down what type of person your student is, it will help cut down the research. 3 Popular Scholarships: Academic/Merit Aid Academic/Merit Aid scholarships are given based on a student’s skill or academic abilities. Usually, a student must maintain a certain GPA to receive this aid. If your GPA and standardized test scores are high enough, you may receive a full ride to your university. If students take the Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test and qualify, they can resource The National Merit Scholarship Program. In terms of academics, some non-profits and private companies will ask a student to write an essay. The organization will often base the grant only on the essay and not on an overall GPA. If your student is a good writer I would suggest visiting: https://www.scholarships.com/financial-aid/college-scholarships/scholarships-by-type/essay-scholarships/ Athletic If you are a stand out athlete there are athletic scholarships. These scholarships are beneficial to colleges because they help attract/recruit athletes to play for them. However, only 1% to 2% of undergraduate students receive athletic scholarships, and they are usually partial scholarships. It is common that this aid requires a student to maintain a level of leadership, behavior and a minimum GPA. Diversity/Identity In an effort to support marginalized communities, Identity Scholarships are awarded for race, ethnicity, gender, and religion. Often the goal is to promote participation in activities or groups that have been historically homogenous. These scholarships are often outside parties such as the Hispanic Scholarship Fund or BIPOC Scholarship for LGBTQ students. (BIPOC Scholarship for LGBTQ Students,Hispanic Scholarship Fund.) Furthermore, there are scholarships for Musical Abilities, Military, Extracurricular, Unique Traits, Community Service and so on. In other words, if you have a Chess kid look for a Chess Scholarship-chances are, they are out there. Start early, and be efficient, use what you have! Rather than thinking about this as a chore, enjoy highlighting the qualities that make your student special. Two Helpful Sites: FastWeb Scholarships.com
If you are at the ISEE (Independent School Entrance Exam) preparation point I’m sure you have already put loads of thought into your child’s education and how to get a leg up. You’ve done your research, you’ve looked at private schools, you know what you want for your child. Now you are ready to take those next steps. Or are you? You are now being faced with the ISEE which is a whole new level of preparation. Most likely your child has always done well and is reading above grade level and scoring well on math. However, ISEE testing is different than how your child is assessed in school. * This exam is designed to be much higher than grade level in the way it is scored. What is the test? On the surface it appears to be split into 4 normal levels for grades 2-12: Primary (2-4), Lower (5&6), Middle (7&8), and Upper (9-12). The Subjects Covered: Verbal Reasoning,Quantitative reasoning, Reading comprehension, Mathematics Achievement, and A Writing sample. According to ERB (the ISEE test makers) “The ISEE consists of carefully constructed and standardized verbal and quantitative reasoning tests that measure a student’s capability for learning, and reading comprehension and mathematics achievement tests that provide specific information about an individual’s strengths and weaknesses in those areas.” This sounds innocuous enough BUT BE AWARE! The questions are designed to be tricky. There is more critical thinking, multi-step questions, unusual questions formats, and deeper reading between the lines than what is received in a classroom. It is mentally strenuous and it is quick. The ISEE specifically pushes the age brackets. There will be information students have NOT yet come across in their classroom learning, and the ISEE is asking for prerequisite knowledge. GIVE YOURSELF PREP TIME It is suggested to start preparing at least 6-8 months in advance. A decent goal is to shoot for 45-90 hours of instruction time, plus homework. This can be achieved with 1:1 programs, online practice tests, and of course tutors. PRO -TIPS Make a consistent study schedule. This is the key to not feeling overloaded. Look at test taking strategies. All strategies help, and will help calm nerves, though that will not be enough in terms of academics. Study vocabulary and challenging reading texts from grades above. Take the practice tests!! There are tests online and will help immensely in seeing where your child is at both academically and comfort wise. Leave time to take the test twice if necessary. ISEE’s can be taken once per testing season (Fall, Winter, Spring/Summer) which totals three times per year. During TEST Things to Think About: Answer All questions. There is no penalty for wrong answers on the ISEE so you might as well guess. Make sure however to keep track of time, if there is left over time go back and make sure all questions are filled in. Make sure to read all your questions CAREFULLY! Pay attention to key words and underline them. When reading, first try to predict answers to the question without looking at the choices. The choices maybe tricky and misleading so try to be solid with your own answer. Similarly with math, decide what you think is the right answer before you start solving. And use estimations- look at things like bigger/smaller, positive/negative—this will certainly help in eliminate wrong answers. *In each section start with what you feel is easiest for you. This will help with time and confidence. But again, go back and fill in all answers. OVERALL MOST IMPORTANT THING: Slow, steady focus—both in test preparation and test taking. Because the ISEE is designed to push learning age brackets, the student is not expected to get all the questions right. The tests are curved each year and your child will be compared to other students at their grade level. One child cannot know everything, take a steady approach at a range of content and you and your child will have positive results. Remember this is one part of a multi-faceted application. Your child can show their unique abilities and personality in the interviews, applications, visit days etc. The big goal should be to make sure your child feels as little stress as possible for this rather stressful test! HELPFUL LINKS: THE TEST MAKERS WEBSITE: Practice Tests: https://iseepracticetest.com https://study.com/isee/isee-practice-tests.html https://isee.ivyglobal.com/practice
As an educator I have witnessed time and time again students not getting a paper in on time, not studying enough because it was put off till the night before, parents repeatedly yelling at their kids to do their work and stop being “lazy”—but really it all comes down to Time Management. Time management is being able to be productive and efficient with ones time, and know how to prioritize it. It is important to remember that time management is a learned habit, meaning we are not born with this ability and it needs to be patiently taught. We also need to remember that not everyone has the same capacity to manage the amount of work and activities expected in a young persons life. Feeling overwhelmed, anxiety, ADHD, slow processors—these are all real things that may require a little extra patience, flexibility, and time. Of course who has the patience when there is no time!? And in a circle we go. Ideally learning time management skills starts in childhood, setting aside short chunks of time for putting away toys etc. As they get a little older time management can be taught in more fun ways. Make calendars and time charts with stickers, colors, glitter, and fun magnets. Why not try apps? And yes, have rewards for goals achieved! Set timers and make games—‘How fast can you do it?’ ‘How long do you think you have left?’ Have them verbally countdown with you. This is for time awareness so they start getting a sense of it. Family calendars are also fun-this breeds an awareness of other peoples time and how everyone is taking an active part in the household. The 2 most important aspects of time management for kids: 1. Prioritizing— help small kids by using simple phrases like First, Next, Last. Help them map out the day from beginning to end to understand the concept—in other words what are the most important things to do in a day ie; get dressed, brush your teeth. Then start looking from daily, to weekly, to monthly. 2. Allow breathe time. Over scheduling activities and then not scheduling free time is detrimental. The down time allows the brain and body to digest, we learn better when we have some space for self. The constant pressure and go teaches a life of stress, and lends to the feeling of ‘never being enough’ which has the opposite effect of efficiently managing. Teens especially are prone to giving up under an over pressurized schedule. And now, let’s talk about the Teens. If possible avoid falling into the trap of telling your teen to do homework over and over, aside from adding to their feeling of stress and rebellion, it also reduces their responsibilities and doesn’t teach them accountability. It may be more productive all around to help your teen feel a sense of agency with how to manage their time. 1. Let them have some control Find out what your teens goals are that they want to reach (this doesn’t mean just schoolwork, it could be practicing an instrument or exercising.) Then set up a plan with your teen on the best way to achieve those goals.Every person has times in the day when they feel most productive—help your teen to identify their rhythm. It’s ok if they want a 20 minute power nap after school if it will help them regroup. After the nap maybe their evening is broken into timed sections —they will know what works best for them. 2 . Keeping it calm One of the biggest killers of time management is feeling overwhelmed and stressed. There is self pressure to be better and there is pressure from external schedules. This is where and why prioritizing is key. Talk to them about the possibility of starting assignments earlier, letting go of some extra curricular, talking to teachers about extensions, figuring out what the MOST important assignments or tests are. This also pertains to their social enagagements. Teens are not always able to see how one thing affects another and what the consequence may be, so help them talk it through. 3. Early starts Procrastination may appear as irresponsibility but again maybe your teen just doesn’t know how to approach things any other way. Give them some tools; set timers, use alerts, give some form of affirmation when they are early with their work or even on time! One thing that may be effective is having an earned technology time. If they are able to get ready and do their work early it will give them some extra technology time to enjoy. —Though I suggest limiting the technology as it is a big distraction! 4. Workspace Where we do our work can create distractions or give us peace. Take time with your teen to set up a work space. If they help set it up they can feel some pride in it. Use diaries, and whiteboards, calendars and color coded organizers, whatever helps their brain to stay organized and energized to work. Give them a comfortable, organized and clean place to work. And let it be theirs—no siblings running through and other outside interferences. Time management is not the most fun life lesson to teach but certainly an important one—and remember you deserve to schedule a little time out for you as well.