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Ann Dolin, M.Ed.

Former Fairfax Teacher,

President and Founder

Cooper Middle School| October 19, 2022

Study Skills & Organization:�Helping Your Middle School Student �Build Better Habits and Confidence

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What is your top concern?

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What are Executive Function Skills?

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What's the Connection?

ADHD vs. EF

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3 Ways Parents Can Help Kids �Build Better Study Habits

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Study Space or �Homework Station

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Desk and chair�
Noise canceling headphones in public places

The ideal place has reduced distractions�

Stock study space with school supplies

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A Daily Routine

Getting started
Daily action items (not a To Do list)
Calendaring

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Previewing the Week

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For Younger Students

Calendar on �fridge (downloadable template)
Preview �together

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Download Free Template

ECtutoring.com/sunday-sessions

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For MS/HS Students

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5 Successful Study Strategies

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1. Distributed Practice

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Studying or practicing over time
In short bursts

Research shows, “spaced or distributed practice is superior to massed practice for long-term retention.”

- Dr. Sean Kang at Dartmouth College

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2. Understanding How Much Time You Need

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3. Time Mapping

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4. Organizing and �Taking In Information

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Effective notetaking�
Notes become study guide

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5. Self-Testing

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#1 study skill
Use teacher’s study guide
Create your own
Use Quizlet

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Schedule your free 20-minute consult �with a Program Manager

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Steps to Teaching �Effective Study Skills

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Explicit instruction
Modeling
Guided practice
Independent practice

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What If Your Child is �Resistant to Studying?

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Overwhelmed

Underprepared

Perfectionist

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Swiss Cheese

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Regardless of Reason, �“Read the Room”

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“Would you mind if I shared my thoughts on this?”

“Would today be an okay day for us to take a look at…?” �

“Could you see this as a technique that you would actually use?”

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Before presenting a strategy or making a suggestion, our coaches might ask:

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Building Open �Communication

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We don’t start with questions like, “Did you…?”�
We normalize situations.�
We empathize.�
We empower to co-own.

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“I’ve noticed it’s hard to stay on top of your math work.”
“I’ve noticed equations are really hard. Tell me about that.”
Listen, nod and empathize

“I’ve Noticed…”

Text � “communication” � to 55-444

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Facilitate an �Improved Mindset��

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Ask open ended questions:

“Tell me more…”

“What makes you say that?”

“How would that work if you did that?”

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Use effective praise/feedback:

“Great job!”

��“That introduction really makes me want to read more of your paper. I thought that first point was very interesting.”

Facilitate an �Improved Mindset�

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Consistency is Key

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Twice a week is ideal
Consistency and accountability are essential
Online sessions lead to increased flexibility for busy students

Safety net at first leads to independence later

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Ann@ectutoring.com

(703) 934-8282

ectutoring.com/newsletter

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Ann Dolin, M.Ed.

Free Consult:

Thank you, Cooper Middle School!