First, let me say that all of my classes in my current teaching assignment are advanced classes.  The state legislature has recently moved to guarantee that all middle schools offer at least one high school math class.  We have been doing that for years. 

Step 1        Attend class. 

Well, this might seem like the proverbial "no-brainer" but it is important to note that many students and parents think it is OK to routinely miss class.  It is not!  Also, it is the advanced student's imperative to get the missed notes and assignments.  An important part of this piece is to "be" in class.  Don't stay up late.  Get some sleep.  Eat breakfast according to what keeps you healthy.

Step 2     Be prepared.   

What?  I need to have my notebook and paper and pencil?  Yes, yes, and yes!  The rule is 20 sheets of paper and 5 pencils in your "nerdy pouch."  What, I am a nerd?   Well, "nerd" should not be a demeaning term.  It is cool to be smart (yes, it is!) and that means more than natural intelligence, i.e. training is a part of being smart.  Spend $3 or so each term and be prepared for class.  Your brain works better when you plan to succeed.

Step 3    Take notes.    

I know how to do this stuff.  When I am showing you how to do it, I am not entertaining myself (OK, it's not exactly entertaining you either.)  I have many things that I enjoy doing.  Talking to you is work - for both of us.  Let's make it productive.  Notes are important for your brain.  If you hear it, you see it and when you write it you "do" it, and then your brain has engaged the topic and has a much better chance to remember it.  In order to move it from short-term memory into long-term memory you must engage.  Even smart people have limitations to their memory and often their attention span can "move on" quickly. 

Step 4    Practice.   

Many generations ago, in a far away land, someone invented math just for the purpose of tormenting you.  Think how important that makes you for human history!  OK, OK, only a middle school kid could think themselves that important.  Someone once said that "practice makes perfect."  No, nothing is perfect.  I like it better that "practice makes permanent."  OK, nothing is permanent either.  But, it does last longer if you practice it.  What we really are searching for is "practice makes better."  For that to happen, you must practice regularly and the work needs to be coherent.  Follow examples given in class and in your text. And, do the work!  Don't depend on me to be your babysitter.  Whenever I force you to do it, you are becoming dependent on me.  Be independent enough to be responsible for your own success.  This is not asking for a miracle.  This is asking for a little pride, a little discipline, and a little time.

Step 5    Protect your investment.   

Assuming you follow step 1, you are going to spend the same number of minutes in class whether you succeed or not.  Your time is valuable.  Keep track of what you have done.  Review your notes.  Organize your notebook.  Label your papers.  When you find something you do not understand, write a question and bring it to class.

NOTE:  I also have a little description of what you should do to make an A.

Well, that's it for now.  Please do yourself a favor and take my advice.