An Open Letter to 9th Graders

Journal: What do you need to do to be successful in school?

An Open Letter to 9th Graders - Vocabulary formidable – (adj) - causing fear or dread, intimidate Students in college are required to read an enormous amount of material across a formidable range of disciplines, and college students must be able to understand and engage with this material thoughtfully. cognitive – (adj.) - concerned with the act or process of knowing, perceiving, and thinking Research is beginning to show us that the brain responds in very powerful and positive ways to cognitive challenges. empathy – (noun)- the power of understanding and entering into another person's feelings Strong listening skills (and the patience and empathy that make listening possible) will be enormously valuable to you in all areas of your life, in college and beyond. grit – (noun) - a trait that enables an individual to persevere in accomplishing a goal despite obstacles over an extended period of time. “Grit” is another quality that is vitally important for college readiness. .

An Open Letter to 9th Graders - Vocabulary self-discipline - (noun) - training of oneself to improvement of physical powers or self-control. We suggest another reason for students falling short of their intellectual potential: their failure to exercise self-discipline. perserverance - (noun) –steady persistence in a course of action or purpose especially in spite of difficulties, obstacles, or discouragement. Researchers who use this term, grit, suggest that it includes self-discipline, perseverance, and passion. Squander - (verb) - to spend or use money or time, etc.) wastefully (often followed by away). Drinking, socializing, and taking reckless advantage of “freedom” on campus lead many students to squander their time at college

SMART Goals 1. S –stands for Specific –You should be clear about what you want to happen Not Specific: I want to make good grades Specific: I want to have a 93 average in science by May 26th 2007 2. M –stands for Measurable –You should be able to track your goal Not Measurable: I want to make a lot of free throw shots Measurable: I want to make at least 9 out of 10 free throw shots in the nextbasketball game 3. A –stands for Action –What small specific actions must you take to achieve this goal? Wrong: In order to make a 93 average in science by May 26th 2007 I must study Right: In order to make a 93 average in science by May 26th 2007 I must read over my science notes every night for 20 minutes 4. R –stands for Realistic –Can you achieve these goals? Is it doable? Unrealistic: I want make 200 free throw shots in one game Realistic: I want to make 8 out of 10 of the free throw shots that I attempt 5. T –stands for Time –You should set a timeframe for your goal No time: I want to learn to play the piano Time: I want to learn to play“Twinkle Twinkle Little Star by June 3rd