Most math textbooks have review tests at the end of each chapter and additional tests (with an answer key) at the back of the book. This is an easy way for your child to review material and identify the areas that need work. If your child is working with formulas, proofs, or equations, having him create review cards can be a huge help. On the back of an index card, have him write the math statement that needs to be memorized along with a definition that includes both what it means and when it is used. On the front, he should add one or two problems, from the book, that can be solved using the statement. Then to review, he can look at the problems and practice identifying which statements.

Reviewing vocabulary.
In all areas of the curriculum, kids have terms that they need to learn to define. The folded study sheet that I described in my last article remains the best way to independently learn the material. Often vocabulary is included as a separate list in a textbook. Prior to making her study sheet, have your child go through the vocabulary list orally to see which ones she automatically knows. Elimination is a key piece when studying—there is no reason for words that have been mastered to be put on her list.

Studying for social studies and science.
Very often, in both subjects kids are expected to compare qualities or characteristics and to defend their knowledge with examples. A great way to accomplish this is with a grid—a visual representation of comparisons between topics that teaches kids how to generalize information. Your child should summarize notes for the grid. Being able to review these notes and explain them more elaborately is the first step in demonstrating an understanding of the material. Also, once the material is on a single page—regardless of the amount of knowledge it represents—it will look less daunting. If your child needs help with the grid, discuss the headings of the rows and columns. You can also make sure he knows where the information is located. Then he should be able to proceed on his own. After your child has created and studied the grid—done the independent preparation—then you can ask him questions based on the grid's information.

Managing midterms, chapter reviews, and other large nightmares.
Your child can use any of the strategies mentioned above, but the definitive first step is to organize materials. Class notes and any other significant papers should be organized according to topics. Textbook headings help by organizing topics using boldface type. If the amount of information is overwhelming, making a list of general topics, dividing them up over several days, and tackling them a little at a time is much more effective than looking at the whole piece over and over again. An extra hint: Have your child look back at notes and highlight any topic or ideas that the teacher spent a lot of time discussing and explaining in class. Odds are it's on the test.

Most teachers make time to meet with students after school. It is very appropriate for your child to stop in before a test, especially if it is an area of difficulty, and ask a teacher to help her compile a list of key elements to focus on when studying. A hint to your child: Don't wait until the last minute—your discussion with your teacher should indicate effort, not a desire to get a "free ride!"

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