Back to School: Has your tween, teen completed his summer assignments?

With the new school year quickly approaching, now is the time to check and see that your child has completed any required summer assignments they may have been given.

High school students in honors and AP courses are the most likely to have required summer assignments. They are often used as a review of past material that will assist them in preparing for advanced courses, particularly in math and science.

In many cases, the summer assignments are the first grades that students receive for the course. These assignments can often have a great impact on their grade. A low grade, or worse, a zero for not completing a summer assignment, can have a devastating effect on their GPA. Whereas a good grade can be the extra boost the student needs later in the term.

In addition to actual assignments, it is not uncommon for schools to have required and/or suggested reading lists.

While they may be optional, students that choose to complete the readings are often more prepared for the start of the school year. The simple act of reading before they are required insures your child maintains their prior reading ability.

If you and your child are unsure as to whether or not they have a required assignment check to see if the school has posted summer assignment information on their web site. If you are unable to find the information, check with the counseling office at the school.