How To Stay Cool When Revising In Hot Summer Weather

The 11 plus tests carried out each September are a big moment for youngsters seeking to enter grammar schools across Buckinghamshire, so it is no surprise that for those revising, the summer before sitting the test can be a pressured time.

However, sometimes the heat is on in more ways than one. While dealing with the potential nerves, doubts and big questions they may have about their future direction, youngsters might also be distracted by the attractions of a sunny summer.

On the one hand, that might be sporting events with so much tennis and cricket going on, tempting them to spend more time outside with racket or bat and a ball, with fresh distractions coming next month when the new football season starts.

Alternatively, the sheer heat of a hot summer can have a soporific effect, making it hard to focus and concentrate on work and revision. This makes summer tutoring a challenge of motivation as well as technical learning.

However, there are some great ways of helping youngsters to revise effectively even in hot, sunny weather like that we have been having this year.

Part of this comes from managing the heat itself. Students should drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration, while being near a fan can also reduce the stifling heat. Using ice packs can also help, as can occasional cool showers to freshen up.

One strategy that I’ve found particularly effective with my students this year is working outside in a shady spot, with their feet in a bowl of water under the table. It worked a treat over the summer!

Another simple rule is to use books outside where you can catch the breeze, but keep the laptop inside to avoid it overheating.

Youngsters may also help themselves by using the Pomodoro technique. This involves breaking down work into 25-minute tasks with five-minute breaks in between. After four of these, take a slightly longer break. Tutors can work with them in this pattern during sessions, helping provide the most effective tuition despite the adverse conditions.

This is a structured method that helps with procrastination and reduces distraction, but it also helps you maintain concentration with focused, short bursts. In the heat, your breaks can include freshening up or getting a cold drink.

The key to summer revision is that ‘business as usual’ is not the best way. With these creative techniques to manage both temperatures and concentration, students can keep their cool and revise much more effectively.