Many schools allow students to repeat courses to replace poor or failing grades. Sometimes the second grade replaces the first grade altogether, but sometimes the first and second grades are averaged.If you are repeating a class that you’ve attempted and failed, there are a few tried and true strategies for achieving success the second time around.Obviously, things didn’t work out first time, so before you jump into the same class—do a study skills inventory to make sure you don’t go in with the same old habits.Put the past to rest. Don’t beat yourself up about things you didn’t do or didn’t do so well. Also important, don’t focus on blame if you think you were dealt an unjust result. You don’t want to get bogged down in a negative state. Commit to a fresh start and focus on success.Get organized. The one guarantee to a better grade is time management. Put every assignment in your planner and keep all your supplies and notes in order. It works like magic!Review old material. If you’ve gone through this information once before, you should have some notes, old tests, and other reading material to look over. Highlight important concepts and re-do old tests. Read over everything before you start your new class. This will give you a solid foundation.Do some outside reading. If you’re taking a biology class, go to the used book store and buy a used textbook. Same with math, history, or any other topic. You never know—sometimes you can struggle because your mind doesn’t work like the text book writer’s brain. It could be a matter of perspective or brain types.Communicate with the instructor. If you really want to do better, you can’t be shy about it. Approach the new teacher and ask about his/her expectations. Ask if there’s anything you can do for extra credit or to give yourself and edge. Check in with the teacher as you progress through the class. If you effort is obvious and your attitude is good, you will get the benefit of the doubt and (perhaps) a little grade boost.Source: http://homeworktips.about.com/od/makingthegrades/a/repeating.htm
