Advice from former students:

**turn in everything on time

**read AND listen to the chapter TWICE--once at the beginning of the chapter, then a day or two before the test

**earn as many homework passes as possible (don't waste your homework passes--can be used for extra points)

**always be prepared for class (bring you materials every day)

**be sure to write your name, date, period and assignment on all papers

**DON'T PROCRASTINATE!!!! --work ahead whenever possible

(try to finish the assignment the day it is assigned--then work ahead)

**keep track of all handouts and worksheets --tape/glue into spiral notebook

**pay attention to Mrs. McMullan in class (don't talk while she's talking)

**study--tests/quizzes are harder than you are used to

(it's not just memorizing info)

**begin studying for tests AT LEAST 2 days before the test

**get organized

**use your spiral notebook--tape/glue in sheets immediately

**USE the assignment sheets Mrs. McMullan gives out on Monday (6th grade only) --check off assignments when complete, then check off again when turned in

**get classwork and updated homework assignments when absent from web page (classmates may not be unreliable)

**look over what we learned in class when you get home every evening

(review notes every day)

**don't talk while Mrs. McMullan is talking!!!!

**expect this class to be challenging (it's advanced) --you're also leaning high school material!!

**help do all the labs (if you let your group members do all the work, you will not do well on the test)

** just "doing" your homework will not get you a 100% (it's graded)

**check PINNACLE (grades online) AT LEAST once a week (let your teacher know immediately if there are mistakes)

**try to compete in science olympiad, robotics, OM, etc

(its fun and you get extra credit)

**keep an "A" average so you can omit some stuff

**do extra credit when offered (you may need it later)

**you must make up all test and quizzes, as well as some labs

(usually come in 8:15am for tests and labs and 8:45am for quizzes)

**if needed, take the retests of tests

**ask questions if you are unclear about something AND participate in class discussions

**write (print or type) so that Mrs. McMullan can read your work

**pay attention to details and directions

**don't give up; a couple of low grades doesn't mean you're "failing" the class

**rewatch Brainpops at home (video and "quiz")

**study in small chunks (5-10 minutes) for several days rather than an hour the day before the test (you'll remember more)

**Learn and USE your learning styles

**try making flashcards or two-column study guides

**if you get nervous during a test, try deep breathing and do the ones you know first

**drink water before testing (don't overdo it)

**have FUN