I can’t seem to articulate my own thoughts to them for some reason. I k is they are hoping for the best in me, but I just failed a Biology test that my dad and I have been studying for two weeks. I don’t know who to blame, and I don’t know how to begin talking to them confidently. Is this normal?
of course you feel bad…
For tests that you didn’t do well on, can you evaluate what went wrong? Did you never read that topic? Did you not do the homework for it? Do you kind of remember it but forgot what to do? Were you unable to analyze data from different area and put it together? Then next time change the way you study…there may be a study skill center at your college/school.
Not sure you are in HS or college:
“Dad, I just wanted to let you know i got a 69 on the Bio test. It was very dissapointing after i studied so much.
I am going to talk to my teacher about other ways to study and maybe get a tutor.”
Ok, I do think you need to talk to your parents and/or another trusted adult. But in the meantime, I’m wondering what grade you are in? Also, I wouldn’t worry about “blame”, you might just want to develop a plan for success in school. For example, are in you an honors or AP biology class that you think is too difficult for you at this point? Maybe there are other options. It doesn’t sound right that you should have to study for a normal test for 2 weeks. Are your others classes going ok? Do you have a guidance counselor or favorite teacher you could start speaking with? Ultimately, though, I think it is likely that it will be a relief to speak openly with your parents. Good luck.
@EmptyNestSoon2 Second semester FTIC. We actually mass-prepare notes for the Bio and Chem chapters weeks if not a few months in advance.
So you are a first year college freshman? If so, why are you studying with your father and not at school with peers, TAs, tutors, prof office hours? The responsibility of failing a test falls on the student, no one else. Obviously how you are preparing and reviewing is not working and you need to do something differently.
IMO, you need to be upfront with your parents and go equipped with what you are going to do differently for the next exam. Sounds to me like you need a tutor from your school.
Have you just failed this one test? Or have you been struggling all year in this and other courses? It’s possibly you’ve chosen the wrong major and would do better in something else. But as a college student, your focus should be on how you can succeed, not on what to tell your parents. If you’re in danger of being kicked out, that’s one thing, but failing a test isn’t in itself a big deal.
Go to your professor’s office hours (do this regularly.) Get a tutor. Write down a study schedule and stick to it. Get enough sleep and regular meals. Don’t skip food or sleep to study. It won’t work. Lay off the partying, if you’re doing that. Hangovers don’t help you retain information. Do take breaks to have fun.