Academic Resources
Official Transcript Request
Peer Tutoring
Tutor.com
Need extra help with your homework? Tutor.com is a free, online, 24/7 tutoring service. On your SJUSD canvas account, you should see a Tutor.com course. You'll have access to make appointments with virtual tutors who can help with any subject (math, science, english, history, and more). You can also ask for essay support as well.
Studying Tips
Get Organized-Taking the time to get organized will set you up nicely and help you achieve your learning goals. Use a planner to keep track of current assignment deadlines. Bring all the materials and devices you need to class so you can participate. You may find it helpful to pack your bag the night before so you’re ready to go first thing in the morning with all of your materials and a charged computer.
Attend Class- Skipping classes can be detrimental to your learning and achieving your study goals. It leaves gaping holes in your notes – and in your subject knowledge. Remember to practice active listening by focusing on what your teachers say in class and taking notes as needed. If you know you will be absent, check Canvas regularly and contact a classmate who can update you on what you missed.
Take Notes- To keep your brain engaged during class, take notes, which you can refer to later as you refine your study techniques. Notes can help store information in your long-term memory and are important for completing assessments and assignments. You might find it handy to condense your notes after class so they’re clear and easy to read. Underline or highlight key points. If anything doesn’t make sense, seek clarification from your teacher. You can also create visual aids like flow charts and mind maps to help simplify information. For some students, these visual aids help them remember complex information and study more effectively. If the teacher says, “This is important,” then write it down!
Ask for Help/Talk with Your Teacher- Your teacher is a resource! Prioritize attending tutorials for the classes where you still need to earn a C- or higher. Ask your teacher questions in person. Many teachers have dozens of emails from students and parents. The best way to ask a question is in person during tutorial or during class. If you are nervous, you can formulate your question by writing it down. Studying and Homework Planning One of the most effective ways of studying is to space out your learning sessions. Keep your phone away while you are studying. If you break up your study load over several days, you’ll retain information far more readily than if you crammed in one long session. This can help deeply ingrain information, allowing you to retain it long-term. You’ll find you achieve much better results for it. One top study tip is to create a schedule or plan. This is incredibly helpful for time management and can help you reach your learning goals. Study Space It is important to have a designated study area that is free from distraction and will allow you to study effectively. When you settle into your study area, you will know you are there to learn. This mindset will help with your overall motivation to study. Choose a study space that is quiet, well-lit, and in a low-traffic area. Ideally, study at a table away from the TV or phone. If the table is in a high-traffic area, consider studying in the library or at a desk. For many students, the greatest distraction is their phone. You may find it helpful to switch your phone to silent – turn off notifications or even off – for the duration of your study session.