Back-to-School Game Plan for Elementary and Middle School Students

Starting a new school year can be both exciting and challenging for international school students and their families. Elementary and middle school students face unique periods of transition in addition to taking on new responsibilities, making this time in their academic life particularly significant. But whether students are just about to start a new school year or they’re stepping into the hallways of a new school altogether, proper preparation can make all the difference. From organizing supplies to developing good study habits, there are countless ways students can set themselves up for success. Here are 12 back-to-school tips that both elementary and middle school students can utilize to make the upcoming year their best year yet. 

Tips for Elementary School Students

1. Establish a Routine

Students should begin the year by establishing the fundamental building block of academic success: a consistent daily routine. For very young learners, parents will likely dictate most of this routine, while older elementary students might advocate for specific times to complete homework and pursue hobbies. Regardless, a predictable structure that includes “non-negotiable” study blocks often makes afternoons and evenings more productive. No matter what a student’s daily schedule looks like, maintaining a regular routine is the most important aspect. The earlier this is solidified in the school year, the better the rest of the year is likely to be.

2. Create a Dedicated Study Space

Once a student has a set time to complete homework after school, the next step is to designate a specific area at home for studying. This space should be quiet, well-lit, and free from distractions. Having a consistent place for homework helps establish good study habits early on. It’s also important that this area is equipped with all the necessary supplies, so young students don’t lose time or get distracted searching for materials.

3. Practice Time Management

Learning to manage time effectively is one of the most valuable skills students of all ages need to master. Even very young learners can learn to keep and update a simple schedule posted in a visible place at home. Students in upper elementary grades, meanwhile, should start using a private planner or a calendar to keep track of assignments, tests, and projects. Elementary students of all ages should practice breaking down larger tasks into smaller tasks, and set deadlines accordingly. This approach helps prevent last-minute cramming and reduces stress. Parents can also help by reviewing the planner together and providing gentle reminders about upcoming deadlines.

4. Actively Engage with Class Material

With the logistics of the new school year in place, parents should encourage their children to view learning as a process that is actively engaged with, as opposed to something that is passively done. Students who actively learn not only take good notes, but also review them regularly, ask additional questions, and research interesting topics on their own. Parents can play an active role by encouraging curiosity and fostering discussion by asking open-ended questions, sharing their own related experiences, and exploring additional resources together to deepen understanding.

5. Develop Reading Habits

Reading is foundational for academic success in elementary school. Regular reading improves vocabulary, comprehension, critical thinking skills, and can also help accelerate progress in other subjects. Students should visit their school or local public library regularly to explore different genres and topics. Once they find a type of book they enjoy, students should set aside time each day to read outside of their regular school assignments. Even 10-15 minutes of reading a day is a great start for young learners.

6. Set Specific Goals

Setting specific, achievable academic goals can motivate elementary students to stay focused and work hard. These goals can be short-term, like completing a weekly homework assignment on time, or long-term, like improving a grade in a particular subject. (Students should set at least a few goals before the end of the first month of the academic calendar, but should also be sure to add to their list of goals regularly.) Younger students especially should be encouraged to track their progress, while parents should strive to celebrate small successes so that children stay motivated.  

Tips for Middle School Students

1. Decide on a Method for Managing Schedules

Middle school comes with increased academic and extracurricular demands, making effective schedule management essential. Middle school students should create a study schedule that designates specific times for each subject and prioritizes tasks based on deadlines and importance. A well-structured schedule helps ensure that all subjects receive adequate attention and reduces the likelihood of last-minute cramming. Whether it’s a smartphone app or a simply physical planner, students should choose the method that works best to keep them on track each week.

2. Improve Note-Taking Skills

Effective note-taking is crucial for success in middle school. Students should experiment with different methods, such as the Cornell method or mind mapping, to organize information clearly and see what works for them. Good notes should capture key points and concepts rather than verbatim details. If students spend a little more time up front developing a system that is consistent across all subjects, they are likely to see an increase in how efficiently they can retain information — meaning their grades improve while they need to spend less time studying overall. 

3. Take Regular Study Breaks

It may seem counterintuitive to emphasize the importance of breaks when it comes to tips for academic success, but short breaks are actually a key part of any successful study program. Students who don’t take breaks — instead assuming that they should simply push through hours of non-stop studying — are much more likely to burn out and do worse in school. Instead of risking this outcome, students should take advantage of productivity hacks like the Pomodoro technique, which allows for structured, periodic breaks. Having short breaks during a long study session can make a huge difference as students prepare for important assessments and write longer essays.

5. When in Doubt, Ask!

Middle school students all too often assume they will somehow figure out a solution or concept without having to ask their teacher or classmates for help. But no matter the subject, students should never hesitate to ask for assistance. If you are a middle school student, make it a priority to regularly ask your teachers or tutors for clarification; alternatively, you can think about creating a study group with friends. Also make sure to seek out school resources and online educational platforms. After all, actively asking for help is a sign of strength and signifies a proactive approach to learning. 

6. Prepare for Standardized Tests

It’s never too early to start preparing for the standardized tests. A great score on a single test can be the difference between getting into a top-choice boarding school or university or settling for less. Many middle school students — especially those who are currently attending an international school — may be anticipating boarding school in the near future. If so, they should plan to take the SSAT or ISEE in the next couple of years and should enroll in regular test-taking classes to gain a solid grasp of the fundamentals. Other middle school students who have plans to go abroad may nonetheless want to prepare for exams like the PSAT in order to get a head start on SAT prep. Note: It is often most convenient to take the SAT before a student’s junior year, as this year is typically considered the most academically demanding year of high school.

Navigating the academic challenges of elementary and middle school requires preparation, organization, and a proactive approach to learning. But with careful planning, students can take charge of their education, reduce stress, and achieve their academic goals. As students transition through these formative years, the habits and strategies they develop will serve as the primary foundation for their continued educational journey and allow them to face the new school year with confidence and enthusiasm.