Seek extra help

Overview

If you're struggling in any class, now is the time to get help — before it's too late to improve.

Recognizing When You Need Help

• Confused about the material
• Grades lower than you want
• Homework takes too long
• You're avoiding the subject
• Test scores don't reflect your effort

Sources of Help

Free Options (Start Here!)

• Teacher office hours: Best first step!
• School tutoring center: Many schools offer this
• Peer tutoring: Learning from classmates
• Online resources: Khan Academy, YouTube tutorials
• Study groups: Work with motivated peers

If Free Options Aren't Enough

• Private tutoring
• Tutoring centers (Kumon, Sylvan, etc.)
• Online tutoring services

Asking Your Teacher

How to Ask

"I'm struggling with [specific topic]. Can we meet during office hours so you can help me understand it better?"

What to Bring

• Specific questions
• Work you've tried
• Examples of what confuses you

Making Help Effective

Before Sessions

• Identify exactly what you don't understand
• Try problems first (know where you get stuck)
• Prepare questions

During Sessions

• Ask questions
• Take notes
• Be honest about confusion

After Sessions

• Review what you learned
• Practice independently
• Return if still confused

Timing Matters

• Ask for help at the FIRST sign of struggle
• Don't wait until you're failing
• The earlier, the easier to catch up

Encouraging Reminder

Asking for help is smart, not weak!