California Scholarship Federation is offering tutoring for Algebra 1 and Biology 1. The two classes are both designed for freshmen and statistics from the past few years have shown a common wave of low grades in these courses.
To allow a boost in the students’ grades, CSF members are planning on tutoring the students enrolled in the two classes.
CSF is one of Aliso Niguel’s largest academic honor organizations. Members are very well dedicated to academic integrity, community service and leadership on campus.
A huge part of CSF’s volunteering comes from helping other students on campus. One way this is done is through the tutoring of the students who need extra help.
This year, with many freshmen facing adjustments to high school level classes, CSF leaders decided to focus on tutoring offers on Algebra 1 and Biology 1, two subjects that often set a precedent for future high school classes.
Freshmen often struggle with Algebra 1 because it is their first experience with higher-level mathematics. It introduces the students to new concepts that follow, variables, graphing, functions and problem-solving strategies.
Biology 1 is similarly an essential course. It’s the entry point into high school science and the foundation for future classes like AP Biology and other AP courses offered at Aliso Niguel High school.
With large amounts of lessons, labs and memorization, the subject can be overwhelming for freshmen who are not yet familiarized with high school level courses, especially for students who are still adjusting to the pace of high school academics.
Kimia Ahmadi, an officer for CSF says, “Freshman year can be stressful and these two classes are usually the ones students worry about the most, we wanted to create a space where they can ask questions, get help and feel supported.”
The tutoring sessions are held regularly in the library after school, providing a comfortable and focused environment for learning. Students who attend can work one-on-one with a CSF tutor. The sessions are offered free of charge for volunteering purposes and open to all students enrolled in Algebra 1 or Biology 1.
Tutors are all CSF members who have not only completed the courses themselves but succeeded in them. Many are currently taking advanced levels of math and science, which allows them to explain the material clearly and offer study strategies that have worked for them.
According to club members, tutoring is not just beneficial for the students receiving help and it also helps strengthen the student’s leadership and communication skills for the tutors.
Ai Kate, a junior tutor for CSF says, “We love being able to help, it can be hard for students to get adjusted to these classes and this way we can help the freshmen.”
When students understand the material to a better extent, they participate more, ask more questions and manage their time effectively. CSF hopes that this effort will encourage freshmen to seek help early rather than waiting until they feel overwhelmed. The goal is simple to raise grades, reduce stress, and help every student start high school with success.
Students interested in joining a session can sign up or ask their Algebra 1 or Biology 1 teacher for more information.
