Secret weapon: Teacher connection

With the advent of the internet, students today have a number of resources at their fingertips. Although some questions have generic answers on websites or in textbooks, those who make the most progress are usually the ones who communicate well with their educators.

It’s common for students to feel embarrassed asking for help, or to feel as though they are ‘bothering’ their teacher, but the fact is that teachers are a student’s best resource and a constant ally. Educators WANT their students to succeed.

Here are a few things to keep in mind:

1. Teachers know better than anyone what topics will be tested

Even if your teachers aren’t writing the exams, they will know what you need to understand going into the exam to do well. There are fundamentals in every course that they can help with, steadying you on a better foundation going into the test and setting you up for future success.

1. Teachers hold extra office hours to help you

Take advantage of office hours and after-school help that your teachers offer. They want to give students enough individual time, but that is often difficult in a busy classroom setting. Office hours also give you the chance to ask questions without other students around to distract you or interrupt your progress. Additionally, if your school offers tutoring programs, see if your teacher feels they would be a good fit for you.

1. Struggling with something more than your classmates? You aren’t alone.

No one is great at everything. There is nothing to be embarrassed about if you don’t understand something that other people do. Your teachers understand this; they have likely worked with students before with the same questions you have, and know how to help.

1. There may be something you’re missing

Educators will recognize individual needs and understand personal areas of improvement better than anyone- they are the ones grading your homework, after all. Asking questions and clarifying what you’re confused about can help your teacher pinpoint gaps in knowledge that you need to understand and get you caught up fast. They may also suggest additional resources you didn’t know about or have unused worksheets or practice exams that you can learn from.

Your teachers may not always realize when you’re struggling. Don’t be afraid to ask for help. The sooner that you communicate with your educators, the sooner you can benefit from their experience and truly feel confident in your knowledge.