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Study Skills Classes

We believe every student can develop a system for academic success. Using a strengths-based approach, we support students in fostering a growth mindset, self-advocacy, metacognition, and executive functioning skill acquisition. We help students identify areas of strength and excellence as well as places for growth in order to set individualized goals and strategies, understanding that progress looks different for each student. Strong partnerships with students, families, and teachers aid Study Skills teachers in taking a holistic approach to our work as we craft individualized instruction, deepen student understanding of classroom curriculum, and communicate with key people in a student’s support system. This holistic support of a student provides opportunity for them to practice new skills and build on their strengths.

Study Skills is a small group, fee-based, elective class open to all students. Teachers work with students to develop individualized learning strategies that support executive function skills and learning in their content classes. As students enter the class with varying levels of understanding and skill development, the course is designed to provide flexible support that meets each student’s unique needs. Students can take this course for multiple trimesters/years. 

 

Middle School

In Middle School, students enroll for the year and receive a Pass/Incomplete grade. Students can take this course for multiple years. The Study Skills class meets during one of the elective blocks in place of one of the elective classes (PE, Arts, Instrumental, or World Languages). 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Upper School

In Upper School, students can enroll by trimester, with typical enrollment being full year. Students currently receive a letter grade and the class is considered an elective credit counting towards graduation. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Photo of Seattle Academy Study Skills Students in classroom with teacher

Organization & Time Management

Students develop strategies and habits for tracking assignments and managing work time within the Study Skills class. Our teachers help students practice effective systems for managing their workload.

Photo of Seattle Academy Study Skills Student

Communication & Self Advocacy

Students will engage in reflection and practices to understand themselves as learners and develop effective communication and self-advocacy skills to support their learning. Developing self-advocacy skills directly set our students up for success in college and life.

Photo of Seattle Academy Study Skills Student with teacher

Academic Skills & Strategies

Study Skills teachers work with students to develop academic skills and strategies, such as incorporating teacher feedback in assignment revisions, study strategies for tests, and close reading skills. While Study Skills teachers support students in their content area classes, the class does not provide basic skill remediation and Study Skills teachers are not necessarily content area specialists across subjects. 

Photo of Seattle Academy Study Skills Students in classroom

Metacognition

Students build self-awareness and regulation through regular goal setting, feedback, and reflection cycles. Metacognition is a higher-order executive function that develops throughout adolescence and young adulthood and we incorporate age-appropriate practices to develop this skill in our young learners.

Study Skills at SAAS FAQ

Students enrolled in study skills by division

Middle School

39%
10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%

Upper School

32%
10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%