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Reader questions and feedback on getting good grades in school. Also refer to teachers, friends, studying, homework, middle, high school, college, tests, cheating, anxiety, success, confidence, presentations, Ron Kurtus, School for Champions. Copyright © Restrictions
Answers to Readers' Questions on Getting Good Grades
Teaching Others
The following 6 comments and questions have been sent in. They are listed according to date.
List of first 10 items
- Who can I teach?
- Can't find original source to cite on statisitcs
- Wants percentages for retention
- Teaching others makes sense to me
- Reading level low and worried about being help back
- Loses motivation during the semester
Who can I teach?
Question
March 30, 2009
Who can I teach? How can I learn again?
wayne - USA
17530
Answer
If you can get an opportunity to teach those younger than you or those seeking knowledge in something you know, certainly volunteer to help teach them.
Can't find original source to cite on statisitcs
Question
July 3, 2008
Hello,
I have seen information similar to those you cite on your website: "Common statistics in education are that you retain 10% of what you hear, 20% of what you read, 50% of what you do, 75% of what you discuss and 90% of what you teach." However, I have yet to see anyone actually cite the original source of that information. I'm beginning to think these numbers are becoming part of the "urban myth" syndrome (as it relates to education). I would love to use the information in my classes; however, I like to practice what I preach about verifying your source. Conundrum: if the statistics are so common, why can't I find a primary source? Do you have reliable primary source information? If you do, please share! :-)
- USA
16175
Answer
I also searched to find an original study on those statistics but haven't been able to find any. I have seen a number of variations on these statistics.
Some sources, such as http://www.willatworklearning.com/2006/10/people_remember.html, completely disregard the statistics and claim there never has been proof of those numbers, although there are graphs that imply the relationship.
One big problem is that people have different learning styles, such that an auditory person may remember more of what is heard than a visually oriented learner. Also, retention requires reinforcement. Doing, discussing and teaching are forms of reinforcement.
I don't think the numbers are exactly correct, but the concept is. My intention was to show that teaching others helps the student, but I think I'll rephrase the sentence to avoid confusion.
I hope that helps. Best wishes in your class.
Wants percentages for retention
Question
March 16, 2008
Hello,
I was wondering if I could cite you in a paper I am writing for entrance into the College of Education and Human Services at the University of Wisconsin, Oshkosh. I was also wondering if you had any percentages that I could use, like "you retain x% of the material that you teach to others" and "you only retain x% of material if you listen to a lecture" and other statistics like that.
Thank you for your help!
Ken - USA
15548
Answer
Yes, you can cite the article.
Common statistics in education are that you retain 10% of what you hear, 20% of what you read, 50% of what you do, 75% of what you discuss and 90% of what you teach. But there are academics that dispute those statistics as inaccurate. The numbers may not be accurate, but in general it does point to the value of teaching others.
Best wishes on your paper.
Teaching others makes sense to me
Question
August 5, 2007
hi...i am a 12 year old from Singapore. i think your idea makes sense.
i will surely try it out. i think this will help me. Thank You!!!
Sadman - Singapore
14161
Answer
It is amazing how much it helps your own understanding when you try to explain material or teach others about things. The biggest problem is in getting others to accept it. Often helping out friends who don't understand some material in school is a good way, provided they don't think you are trying to show off your knowledge.
Some schools have students from one grade go into a lower grade to help teach the younger students. That works really well.
Best wishes in teaching others. I am sure you will be a top student.
Reading level low and worried about being help back
Question
March 12, 2006
okay, I say I will try my best but it doesn't show. My reading level is low and I need help. I am worried because in 8th grade they say if your grades aren't up you will not go to ninth grade. Also, on the writing test I am worried because I spelled a word wrong. And I don't want to be held back because I will get made fun of. So what do I do.
Jaleesa - USA
10416
Answer
It is good to find books or magazines to read that you enjoy. That is good practice and can generally help in improving your reading level. Often the problem is that television is easier than reading.
You did a good job in writing this email. Usually, students have many misspellings. Using the spell check in your computer is good to point out the words you get wrong, so you can tell what you need to learn.
It is a good idea to talk to your teacher about your reading level. Tell the teacher you are concerned and ask for suggestions on how you can improve. You may get some good ideas, but also, it shows the teacher you are seriously trying to do your best. That can help your grades.
You are on the right track for improving yourself and making sure you get good grades and don't get help back. I hope these ideas help, and best wishes on your success.
Loses motivation during the semester
Question
January 20, 2006
Hi, I have a problem with getting decent grades. Im sure many people as well have this same problem. At the start of a new year, quarter or semester, I really feel Im going to do good and I tell my self im going to get a's. It just goes all down hill, I lose that motivation to want to work hard and get grades. Any tips on what I should do? =(
Michael - USA
9738
Answer
Write down your goals at the beginning of the year and keep the list where you can see it as a reminder. You might add some motivation by promising yourself a reward if you get certain grades during the semester. That way, you will keep up your interest, as well as renew it.
If you are just working hard and seeing no progress or feeling your are getting something out of it, then it is easy to get discouraged and lose interest. Planning out your work so that it is more of a regular routine instead of some drudgery can help. You want to work smarter not work harder.
Finally, ask yourself why you want good grades. Is it to prove something to yourself, to make your parents proud, to go on to college, to get a good job, or what? It is good to know. This will help to keep up your motivation.
Best wishes in getting good grades and enjoying the experience of school.
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