The second quarter can be the hardest part of the year for high school students. Not only does it seem to get more difficult as the curriculum increases in intensity, school also seems to drag on because of the change in weather, and it may seem like there’s very little to look forward to in the winter months. Don’t let this be the case for second quarter. Here are some ways students can have a positive outlook on second quarter.
One of the best ways to have an easier second quarter is to keep up with schoolwork. With busy schedules and difficult classes, the curriculum may seem to become another stress in life. It is best to focus when in class to make studying for tests easier once it is time to take them. It can be tempting to procrastinate certain tasks for later, especially if you get into a routine of letting it happen. Senior, Samina Abdullah says, “I have gotten better about adhering to my schedule, but I’ll admit the biggest thing that gets in the way is my phone. I have found that I just have to be strict with myself to finish my schoolwork.” When it gets to be the end of the second quarter and finals are just around the corner, it will be beneficial to have done the work when you had more time.
Although the weather is getting colder and it gets dark earlier in the day, students can keep their mood up by creating a study environment that is both warm enough and bright enough. According to blog.1000bulbs.com, “When studying in poorly lit rooms, melatonin levels may be higher, which can cause you to feel depressed and drowsy.” Due to the chemicals in the human brain, serotonin and melatonin are affected by the lighting in a room, causing a change in mood. It is best to have well lit rooms for doing school work to keep energy levels up, increase serotonin, and decrease risk of eye injury.
Late night studying may also be affecting students in the second quarter. It is advised to do homework earlier in the evening if possible in order to have more light, higher energy, and an easier morning. Although many students claim they are night-owls, it may be beneficial to complete homework earlier rather than later in order to reserve time for needed sleep. According to sleepfoundation.org, “Teens need about 8 to 10 hours of sleep each night to function best.” Unfortunately, it can be hard to work in that much time for sleep. On the other hand, sleep is needed and it is important for one’s health. In that case, make sure to get enough sleep in order to make second quarter a successful one.
Last, it may be hard for students to find motivation during the second quarter of school. First and third quarter seem to be a bit easier since they begin new classes at PV and fourth quarter almost seems to fly by as it warms up outdoors and summer begins to approach. What is there to look forward to in second quarter? Students can get involved in a variety of new sports and other indoor activities during the winter as well as anticipate winter break. It’s easy to let second quarter pass by slowly, but why not enjoy it while it is here?
As always, second quarter just needs to be looked at with a fresh viewpoint to appreciate it. Soon enough it will be third quarter. In order not to let the time get the best of an individual, it is best to be approached with new opportunities. Don’t let second quarter pass you by, Spartans.
