AscendEd Insights
Table of Contents
From The Desk of AS
Vol. I - Navigating the Educational Maze: 4 Strategies for Enhancing Students' Executive Functioning Skills
In the ever-evolving landscape of modern education, it is more crucial than ever to empower students with strong executive functioning skills.
At Ascension, our commitment to excellence goes beyond conventional tutoring; we seamlessly integrate Executive Functioning Skills practice into all of our tutoring sessions.
The strategies for practicing these skills are designed to meticulously bolster student success in tests, admissions processes, and homework assignments. Below is a carefully curated list of the 4 strategies our educators implement.
4 Concrete Strategies for Cultivating Executive Functioning in Students:
1) Tools for Time Management:
Digital Calendars: Introduce students to digital calendars and planners to efficiently organize tasks related to test preparation, school admissions deadlines, and homework assignments.
Visual Timelines: Encourage the creation of visual timelines specifically for assignments, projects, and test preparation, breaking down tasks into manageable steps with clear deadlines.
Timers: Utilize timers to break down long tasks related to homework help or test preparation. For younger kids, incorporating their favorite song adds an engaging element. Have students estimate and time themselves to enhance time management skills.
2) Goal-Setting and Prioritization:
Realistic Goals: Guide students in setting both short-term and long-term goals related to test preparation, school admissions, and homework help that align with their aspirations.
Differentiate Tasks: Teach the art of discerning between urgent and important tasks, fostering responsibility and control over their workload, which is crucial for success in admissions and effective homework completion.
Lists: During sessions, students often create lists to prioritize tasks, ensuring they focus on the most important aspects of test preparation, school admissions, and homework assignments.
3) Consistent Routines for Structure:
Daily Rituals: Collaborate with students to establish consistent daily routines, including dedicated times for studying, breaks, and extracurricular activities, promoting structure for test preparation and homework help.
Reduced Anxiety: Consistent routines provide a sense of structure, reducing anxiety and facilitating better organization and time management, essential elements for success in test preparation and school admissions.
Consistency: Our tutors often begin sessions with something consistent that students can anticipate, contributing to a positive and structured learning environment.
4) Self-Monitoring and Reflection:
Regular Assessment: Encourage students to reflect on their work habits and progress regularly, a practice vital for both test preparation and ongoing homework help.
Identify Strengths and Weaknesses: Through self-monitoring, students gain a deeper understanding of their executive functioning skills, empowering them to make informed adjustments for improved performance in test preparation, school admissions, and homework assignments.
Assessments: We recommend signing students up for assessments, as they are a valuable tool for gauging their progress and tailoring our support accordingly.
Incorporating these strategies into the educational journey equips students with the tools they need to excel not only in tests and school admissions but also in managing their homework effectively. By fostering a proactive mindset, promoting organization, and nurturing self-awareness, educators and parents play a pivotal role in preparing the next generation for success in the multifaceted challenges of today's fast-paced and digitally-driven learning environment.
Vol. II - Navigating Standardized Assessments & Admissions: The Power of Planning, Proficiency, & Support
In the increasingly competitive educational landscape, standardized assessments play a pivotal role in shaping students' academic journeys. These assessments, whether for private school admissions or college admissions, often act as gatekeepers, determining not only acceptance but also scholarship opportunities and future success.
In such a high-stakes environment, the importance of planning and scheduling enough time to prepare cannot be overstated, and having the right support system in place to make that happen can make all the difference.
This is where Ascension steps in and provides invaluable insight and assistance throughout the entire process. From navigating the timing of the admissions process to mastering content and offering emotional support, our experts help our students through every step of this challenging journey.
3 Pillars to Standardized Assessment & Admissions Success:
1) Planning and Scheduling: The Foundation
Achieving success on standardized assessments depends not only on innate intelligence but also on strategy and preparation. Cramming at the last minute rarely yields desirable results; instead, it often leads to stress and anxiety, hindering performance.
Ascension recognizes the crucial role that proper planning and consistent studying play in effective test preparation. From content review to practice tests, we help our students map out their study schedules well in advance to ensure that we have accounted for every aspect of preparation. Adopting this structured approach not only maximizes the student’s study efficiency but also alleviates the pressure associated with last-minute preparation.
2) Content Mastery: The Key
Standardized assessments evaluate not only general academic aptitude but also specific subject matter knowledge. Mastery of content is, therefore, paramount for achieving high scores. However, navigating the vast array of topics covered in these assessments can be overwhelming without proper guidance.
Ascension offers comprehensive content reviews tailored to each student's needs. Their experienced tutors break down complex concepts, provide targeted practice exercises, and offer personalized feedback to reinforce learning. Whether it's mastering mathematical formulas for the Independent School Entry Exam or honing critical reading skills for the SSAT and the SAT, students receive the support they need to become proficient in every subject area tested.
3) Emotional Support: The Mindset
Beyond academic preparation, standardized assessments and admissions processes can take a toll on students emotionally. The fear of failure, pressure to perform, and uncertainty about the future can create significant stress and anxiety.
Ascension Educational understands the importance of addressing students' emotional needs throughout this journey. Their compassionate team provides a supportive environment where students can express their concerns, receive encouragement, and develop resilience in the face of challenges. Through personalized guidance and mentorship, they empower students to navigate the admissions process with confidence and self-assurance.
In the competitive landscape of private school and college admissions, planning, scheduling, and support are indispensable factors for success. Ascension Educational recognizes this reality and goes above and beyond to provide students with the tools and resources they need to excel. By emphasizing the importance of strategic preparation, mastery of content, and emotional well-being, they not only help students achieve their academic goals but also foster a sense of empowerment that extends far beyond standardized assessments. With Ascension Educational by their side, students can confidently navigate the admissions process and embark on a journey of lifelong learning and achievement, whether they're preparing for the Independent School Entry Exam, the SSAT, the SAT, or any other standardized assessment.