LDAYR and Evoke Learning Presents: The Science of Student Success

Part One — Preparing for Tests and Exams

Study skills are often referred to as the “hidden curriculum”. Teachers often assume student know how to prepare for a test or exam, however many students lack these essential skills and approach the studying task haphazardly. We tell students to make sure they study for the next upcoming test, but many just don’t know where to start. Our brains were not made for school, which means that we need to know the science behind how our brain works in order to understand effective study strategies. It also means that retaining information requires extra work on the part of the student. Knowing just what this work needs to look like, and how to study for a test or exam, is half the battle.

This workshop is designed for high school students (and those entering grade 9 in the fall) and demonstrates:

Students will receive a handout to take home that will help remind them of what they learned.

Part Two — Note-taking and Preparing Notes that are Test and Exam Ready

This workshop is for students who have already registered for our first workshop; Preparing for Tests and Exams, and is an extension of what they need to know as a student to prepare effective study notes. While students may have an understanding of how to study, they may not be using effective note-taking strategies. Quite often students find themselves disorganized and without effective study notes to prepare for a test or exam.

This workshop is designed for high school students (and those entering grade 9 in the fall) and demonstrates:

Students are required to bring their school binders, text books (a must!), notes, class handouts, laptops (bring your own technology), PowerPoint handouts, and any other relevant materials they will need to have a solid understanding of their courses for upcoming tests and exams. Students will also need a binder, lined paper with binder holes, and a set of dividers for every subject. This is a very hands on workshop. For students who tend to be challenged by organization and those who will be writing exams in June, it may be a good idea to register for this workshop each month, until June, to ensure that their notes are organized and exam ready.

All workshops are capped at 20 students.

Pizza and drinks will be served during both workshops.

NOW is the right time to learn these important skills to ensure the information is understood and absorbed!

Dates & Times:

February 26th

4:30 to 6:45pm
Part One — Preparing for Tests and Exams

7:00 to 9:15pm
Part Two — Note-taking and Preparing Notes that are Test and Exam Ready

March 26th

4:30 to 6:45pm
Part Two — Note-taking and Preparing Notes that are Test and Exam Ready

7:00 to 9:15pm
Part One — Preparing for Tests and Exams

April 9th

4:30 to 6:45pm
Part One — Preparing for Tests and Exams

7:00 to 9:15pm
Part Two — Note-taking and Preparing Notes that are Test and Exam Ready

May 7th

4:30 to 6:45pm
Part Two — Note-taking and Preparing Notes that are Test and Exam Ready

7:00 to 9:15pm
Part One — Preparing for Tests and Exams

Location:
LDAYR
11181 Yonge Street Richmond Hill, ON L4S 1L2
(Library Room: 208)

Cost:
$70 Non LDAYR member
$55 LDAYR member
*Cost includes pizza and drink
*Workshop fees are transferable but non-refundable

To register, contact Learning Disabilities Association of York Region today!

Tel:(905) 884-7933
Fax: (905) 770-9377
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.ldayr.org

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The move to postsecondary education from high school can be challenging for students with learning disabilities. Their individualized education program, parental support, and accommodations fall away; they are living away from home for the first time; and they need to navigate new friendships and unfamiliar resources.

While your child is still in high school, you can help them “rehearse” their newfound freedom in ways that strengthen their ability to function independently. Make sure they have their own checking account and understand how to build and manage a budget (apps like Mint.com can be very helpful). Make it your child’s responsibility to sort, wash, and fold their own laundry each week and teach them how to cook simple meals using inexpensive ingredients. Help your child to thoroughly understand their learning needs and encourage them to advocate on their own behalf. Urge them to embrace social situations where they will meet new people. Most important, be sure that they have plenty of practice breaking down assignments, taking notes, and studying for tests.

Secure tutoring or coaching support before your child starts university to help them organize and plan. Be sure to register with the learning skills office at the new school and set up a meeting for your student prior to the beginning of classes. Colleges and universities will require an official diagnosis of your child’s disability to formalize accommodations (this process may have to be repeated each year). When setting up a bank account, create joint access so that you can transfer funds into the account and help your student monitor their spending. Before your child begins school, spend some time in the area where they’ll be living and make sure they are familiar with important locations such as medical offices, laundry facilities, grocery stores, banks, and bus/train stations.

The journey through college or university will sometimes be bumpy. Be available, reserve judgment, and provide as much structure for your student as you can. It may take extra time for your child to graduate, grades may go up and down, classes might be dropped or failed, and there will be a lot of last-minute calls for help, but hang in there. By being proactive and patient, you’ll help your son or daughter secure that important diploma and reach a new level of independence.

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