Tip! Follow up on matters that affect your grade.

Knowing when — and how — to speak up is important to be an organized middle school student. Whether it’s as simple as tracking down a teacher to reschedule a missed lab, check on a grade, or ask for another copy of that lost worksheet — don’t let shyness, embarrassment, limited English skills, concern about being in trouble with your teacher – or any other matter — keep you from doing what you need to do to follow up on matters that affect your grade. Sometimes for middle school kids, its hard to speak up. So here’s a tip: Practice! Figure out what you are going to say to your teacher to explain your dilemma. Then, practice saying it aloud to a friend, or to your mom or dad. Know what you are going to say and how your are going to say it. You’ll feel more confident when you talk to your teacher. Remember to say “please” and “thank you!”