Picture this – it’s midsemester and you are failing a class. Maybe you didn’t too hot on your midterm or have been struggling all semester. Either way, there are ways to bring up your grade to a passing level.
1. Meet with your professor
Schedule a meeting with your professor. Discuss with them ways to improve your grade, possible extra credit, things you should focus on while studying. This can show your professor you are willing to make the extra time to pass the class.
2. Organize your materials for the class
Print out all your available materials. Make flash cards to study with. Organize them into a binder or folder so all your materials are organized and easy to find.
3. Form a study group or find a study partner
Studying with other people can be an exciting and less boring way to study. At the very least, find a friend that you can exchange notes with so you can learn from each other.
4. Study long-term
Start studying for tests in advance, instead of cramming the night before. If you handwrite or print flashcards and study them for 10 minutes a night, you will learn the material before you know it.
5. Show up to class
This one should be a no-brainer, but be sure to actually attend class. Missing class means not gaining valuable information that can be on exams and assignments. If you are going to miss class, try to get work from a professor ahead of time and notes from a classmate after.
Overall, don’t give up.
There is always a way to improve grades. See if your teacher drops any homework or exam grades.This information will typically be on your syllabus.
I think talking to the professor is a very good idea. Years ago when I was having problems in a language class I went and spoke with my professor. I tried speaking in the language I was learning and he was impressed with the effort and how much I actually knew. Turned out my knowledge wasn’t coming across in the classroom because I didn’t speak up enough. Changing his opinion helped me pass the class.