Speech Example Name Class Period Warren Date Improving Grade

Speech Example Name Class Period Warren Date Improving Grades

SPEECH EXAMPLE Name Class period Warren Date Improving Grades* Specific Purpose: I want my audience to understand three techniques for improving grades in college. Organizational pattern: Categorical order Introduction I. We all know the importance of good grades for either getting into graduate school or getting the best possible job. II. R. P. Wipperman, a section head for Procter and Gamble, told me in a personal interview that good grades “are the calling card that get you in the door.” III. Because I’ve been away from college for more than seventeen years, I’ve been particularly concerned about getting back into the studying groove, so I’ve been reading study guides looking for specific techniques that are most likely to help with my grades. Thesis statement: Today I’d like to share with you three relatively easy, proven techniques for improving your GPA that I’ve learned from my study: attend classes regularly, maintain a positive attitude, and study systematically. (Transition: So let’s begin with the first technique.)

Paper For Above instruction

Improving academic performance is a goal shared by many college students seeking to excel and achieve their educational aspirations. Understanding effective strategies can significantly enhance GPA and overall learning experience. This essay elucidates three proven techniques for improving grades: attending classes regularly, maintaining a positive attitude toward learning, and studying systematically. These methods are supported by research and personal insights, providing practical guidance for students striving for academic success.

Introduction

In the competitive landscape of higher education, achieving high grades is often viewed as essential for future opportunities. As R. P. Wipperman from Procter and Gamble noted, good grades serve as a "calling card" that opens doors to professional and academic advancements. For many students, especially those re-entering college after a long hiatus, developing effective study habits becomes crucial. Drawing from various sources and personal experience, the focus of this discussion is to present three simple yet effective techniques to improve academic performance: attending classes regularly, cultivating a positive mindset, and studying in an organized manner.

Attending Classes Regularly

The first technique—attending classes consistently—may seem straightforward but remains one of the most impactful habits a student can develop. Regular attendance ensures that students do not miss vital explanations, clarifications, and discussions that deepen understanding. According to Dr. Claude Olney in Where There’s A Will There’s an A, attendance starkly correlates with academic success. Olney's study of 800 students revealed that those who earned A’s missed fewer than one class per term, whereas C students missed more than four. Professors often share insights, emphasize critical points, and provide context that cannot be fully grasped from textbooks alone. Moreover, the financial and long-term benefits of attendance are substantial; a study by the Census Bureau, cited in the Cincinnati Enquirer, indicates that college graduates earn approximately $600,000 more over their lifetime than high school graduates. Considering that students spend around 600 days in classes over four years, missing class translates into not just lost knowledge but also significant monetary loss.

Developing a Positive Attitude

The second vital technique is cultivating a positive attitude towards academic work. Mental mindset influences motivation, confidence, and performance. Bill Moyers’ public television series emphasizes the power of the mind over behavior, reinforcing the idea that self-belief can shape outcomes. As Dr. Olney famously stated, “If you think you can do it, you’re right; if you think you can’t, you’re still right.” This highlights the importance of confidence in academic achievement. Entering each class with a relaxed, confident mindset prepares the subconscious for success. Joseph Murray, author of The Power of Your Subconscious Mind, notes that once the subconscious accepts an idea, it begins to execute it, making positive affirmations and visualizations powerful tools. Reminding oneself of progress and the value of learning can foster motivation and improve grades. Statements like “I am prepared for this exam” or “I understand this material” reinforce confidence and create a mental environment conducive to learning.

Studying Systematically

The third technique involves disciplined, systematic studying—reading, processing, and reviewing course material regularly. Effective studying does not end with reading assignments; it must include thoughtful engagement with the content. Before class, students should read assignments thoroughly, so they arrive prepared to participate and understand lectures better. During class, active note-taking and asking questions help in processing information and clarifying concepts. Afterward, reinforcement becomes critical. Reviewing material immediately after class significantly increases retention; without reinforcement, students tend to forget approximately 50% of what they learn within 48 hours, and up to 90% within two weeks. Regular review helps solidify knowledge and enhances long-term memory, ultimately leading to better academic performance. This approach underscores the importance of consistent, spaced repetition and active engagement with material.

Conclusion

In conclusion, improving your GPA can be achieved by incorporating three straightforward but effective strategies: attending every class, maintaining a positive attitude towards learning, and studying in an organized, systematic way. These techniques, supported by empirical research and expert opinion, can help students maximize their academic potential. By adopting these habits, students can not only improve their grades but also develop lifelong learning skills that will serve them well beyond college. Remember, success in academics is not solely about intelligence but also about disciplined habits and a positive mental attitude. Emphasizing these practices can make the journey through college more rewarding and productive.

References

• Murphy, Joseph. The Power of Your Subconscious Mind. Bantam, 1985.
• Olney, Claude W. Where There’s a Will There’s an A. Chesterbook Educational Publishers, 1989.
• Smith, John. “College Education Pays.” Cincinnati Inquirer, 10 April 1999, A1. EBSCOhost.
• Wipperman, R. P. Personal interview, 2 November 1999.
• Covey, Stephen R. The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People. Simon & Schuster, 1989.
• Zimmerman, Barry J. “Becoming a Self-Regulated Learner.” Theory Into Practice, vol. 41, no. 2, 2002, pp. 64–70.
• Bandura, Albert. Self-Efficacy: The Exercise of Control. W. H. Freeman, 1997.
• Schunk, David H. Learning Theories: An Educational Perspective. Pearson, 2012.
• Schunk, D. H., & DiBenedetto, M. K. “Motivating Self-Regulated Learning.” Concepts, Contexts, and Practice, 2020.
• Pintrich, P. R. “The Role of Goal Orientation in Self-Regulated Learning.” Handbook of Self-Regulation, 2000, pp. 451–502.