Hey Peanuts!
It’s Piper Peanut, here to help you navigate the ever-evolving, crazy environment of WHHS. For this edition, here are the answers to some frequently asked questions.
Q: How should I keep track of my work?
A: In your first two years at WHHS, expect the number of assignments to be plentiful. However, there are ways to manage this. One way is by using a planner or calendar to keep track of when assignments are due, or simply writing all your tasks on a flashcard (or arm) throughout the school day.
Q: How should I study for tests?
A: Studying isn’t something to stress about too much. Try studying several days before your test. This way, you are able to dedicate enough time to each topic. This will help ensure that you have enough time to ask questions if you get confused. Additionally, going to a teacher’s help night will greatly increase your understanding of a topic.
Q: What are good study habits to use?
A: While everyone learns differently, certain methods can prove to be especially beneficial. Using websites such as Quizlet and Khan Academy works well if your focus is on reabsorbing information from class. If you want to memorize information, such as vocabulary, things like making flashcards, writing each word 10 times on a piece of paper and using vocabulary.com are excellent choices. Remember, the key to acing a test is to study in advance. No matter how much you prepare the night before, information is bound to become blurred in the haze of rushed panic.
Q: What should I do if I need extra help with a class?
A: If you are struggling with a class, the first step is to talk to your teacher. While it may be scary, opening up to your teacher and letting them know what areas you are struggling with will allow them to work with you closely and hone in on the specific parts you cannot quite comprehend. If this seems like too daunting a task, another alternative is going to help at night. Every teacher at WHHS has a help night either before or after school during the week. During help nights, you can ask questions about material, assessments or anything else you’re confused about. Lastly, another great way to find extra help for a class is by talking to your counselor. Counselors are there to support you both academically and mentally; they can refer you to tutors or other programs to give you the support you need.
Q: What is the best way to make friends?
A: Finding a group of like-minded individuals to spend the remainder of your time here at WHHS is essential. The question is, how do you do that? One of the easiest ways to find people who share your interests is by joining clubs, sports or other activities. By joining an extracurricular, you can connect with so many more people in the community. Branching out early on in your journey here will allow you to locate a safe environment where you can grow and feel like you belong.
Q: What steps can I take now to ease the transition from middle school to high school?
A: Since WHHS ranges from grades seventh to twelfth, the transition from middle school to high school may not seem as treacherous as one may think; however, there are lots of ways this step into the next phase can remain seamless. One of the biggest challenges students face when transitioning into high school is the course load. The best way to combat this is by using your seventh and eighth grade years to practice good study habits and organizational methods so things don’t get lost in translation. If you need assistance with those, you can refer to the previous paragraphs. Another way to ease the transition is to be proactive. By setting goals and searching for helpful resources prior to the beginning of the school year, there will be a lot less stress when you are in need of a helping hand.