The way to an “A”

Teenagers at Ramstein High School are memorizing their formulas, flipping through their flashcards and poring over their textbooks in anticipation of the semester exams today and next week. Every student hopes to earn a good grade on the big test, but many go about preparation the wrong way.

“The biggest mistake, of course, is not consistently focusing on their classes throughout the course of the year,” said Yolanda McCrimmon, who teaches high school Advancement Via Individual Determination, a class that instructs students in effective study strategies. “They miss important information and miss out on certain parts that may be on the semester exam.”

Contrary to popular belief, this unsteady concentration on lessons cannot be cured in the last few days before the test.

“There is no such thing as cramming,” Ms. McCrimmon said. “The studying has to be consistently good. If you’re not studying and keeping up with your assignments the entire year, you can’t realistically expect to do well.”

Ms. McCrimmon said a daily regimen of study is the best way to combat poor grades.
“To be in AVID, students have to commit to studying one and a half to two hours per night, every night. They are also encouraged to take advantage of tutorials and address any areas of weakness. Students who do this are A and B students.”
The answer is clear: only honest and regular work can guarantee success — but with a bit of effort, you can pass your test with flying colors.