Report card time is coming up and your average doesn't look good? Don't panic - there's still time to take action. Discover effective strategies to improve your grades before the end of the period.
Step 1: Assess your situation
- Check all your grades in Magister or SOMtoday
- Calculate your current average per subject
- Identify subjects where you're on the borderline
- Check the weights - which tests count the most
- Estimate how much time is left until the report meeting
Focus on 2-3 subjects where improvement is most urgent and achievable.
Step 2: Talk to your teachers
Approach your teacher with a specific question:
- "Can I retake the test?"
- "What can I do to raise my average?"
- "Are there any more tests or oral exams coming?"
Best timing: at least 2-3 weeks before the report meeting
Don't wait until the last moment! A conversation the day before the meeting is too late.
Step 3: Effective improvement strategies
Retakes
Many schools offer retake opportunities. Even if the retake doesn't fully replace the original grade, it can raise your average. Ask about the conditions and prepare well.
Oral exams
Volunteer for oral exams, especially on topics you know well. These often weigh less but can positively influence your average.
Homework and assignments
Always submit all your homework and assignments on time. Consistency shows commitment and can positively influence teachers when determining final grades.
Extra work
Propose to do an extra assignment, presentation, or paper. This shows initiative and can earn you an extra grade.
Active participation
Be active in class: ask questions, participate in discussions, show interest. Active participation is often considered in the final assessment.
Step 4: Set priorities
Focus on subjects where:
- You're close to a higher final grade (e.g., 5.4 → 6)
- You're at risk of failing (insufficient - highest priority!)
- The subject has high weight for your profile
- The teacher is open to improvement and extra effort
Don't try to improve everything at once - better to be well prepared for 2-3 subjects than poorly for all.
Use Magister or SOMtoday smartly
Your digital learning environment can help you:
- Regularly check your grades and averages
- View the schedule for upcoming tests
- Check the weights in the test schedule or PTA
Use the grade calculator
Calculate what grade you need on the next test to achieve your desired average. This way you know exactly what to work on and whether improvement is realistic.
Summary - checklist
- Check all your grades and calculate your averages
- Talk to teachers about improvement opportunities
- Plan actions: retakes, oral exams, extra assignments
- Set priorities - focus on the most important subjects
- Act quickly - time is limited
- Be active in class and submit everything on time