Building Better Study Habits
Middle and Upper School students will soon turn their attention to their final summative assessment preparation. As a Middle School Learning Support Specialist, I work with boys throughout the year to help them build strong study habits and learn how to manage their academic responsibilities. When home and school work together to reinforce these strategies, students are even better positioned to succeed.
A big part of a boy’s academic journey is learning how to study. That includes discovering what strategies work best for him as a learner and developing routines that promote focus, confidence, and retention. While each boy is different, research tells us there are some particularly effective approaches for boys of all ages.
1. Active Learning Over Passive Review: Active learning forces the brain to actively retrieve and process information, leading to deeper understanding and better recall. Rather than simply rereading notes, boys should be thinking, applying, and testing themselves. For instance, active learning can involve hands-on activities like building a model, acting out concepts, explaining ideas to a study partner, or working through practice problems..
2. Shorter, More Frequent Study Sessions: Instead of long hours spent cramming the night before a test, boys benefit more from shorter, consistent study blocks over time, which strengthens memory. Reviewing material for 20 to 30 minutes several times per week is far more effective for long-term retention than last-minute studying. This approach also reduces stress and helps boys feel more in control of their learning. This requires backwards planning and starting to study earlier than boys typically do. Breaking down study sessions into smaller chunks can help overcome procrastination, making the task feel less daunting.
3. Making It Fun Through Gamification: Many boys are motivated by challenge and play. Turning study into a game, whether through online platforms like Quizlet, Blooket, or Kahoot, or at-home competitions with flashcards, can help make review more engaging because it taps into intrinsic motivation and makes learning more enjoyable, reducing resistance. This strategy is particularly effective with younger learners, but even older boys often enjoy the boost of energy and competition it brings. Gamification can take many forms, from using sticker charts for progress to competing with classmates on online quiz platforms.
4. Movement Matters: Boys of all ages benefit from movement-integrated learning. Studying doesn’t have to happen while seated at a desk. Walking while reviewing, standing at a whiteboard, or incorporating physical activity while practicing material can increase focus and retention because it increases blood flow to the brain, which can improve focus and cognitive function. This is especially helpful for boys who find sitting still for long periods a challenge. Encouraging movement can involve short bursts of activity between study intervals or incorporating physical movement while reviewing material.
It’s important to note that while these strategies are generally effective, some may work better than others. Encourage your son to experiment and discover what works best for his individual learning style. Also, remember that sufficient sleep and a nutritious diet provide the essential foundation for effective studying and academic performance.
Parents can support this learning at home by encouraging these same strategies, helping to create an environment that values consistency, effort, and growth. By supporting your sons in developing these effective study habits, you are equipping them with valuable skills that will benefit them throughout their academic careers and beyond. If you’re looking for more ideas or support tailored to your son’s needs, please don’t hesitate to reach out.
