Contents
Introduction
When it comes to studying for the 11 Plus, it's important that kids adopt a steady pace that leaves them adequately prepared for the exam without feeling overwhelmed. The 11+ exams typically takes place in the September of a child’s last year in primary school, and many parents start to prepare their children up to two years beforehand.
If kids leave their revision until the last minute, they're likely to miss essential topics. If they study too much too early, they may feel stressed and exhausted by the time the exam comes around. Here are our top tips to help your child achieve a sustainable pace of study.
1. Work with them to create a study timetable
All kids are different in terms of their learning styles and the pace at which they learn, so it's important to let them set a study schedule that works for them. However, since your child will start preparing for the 11 Plus exam at around 8 or 9 years old, they likely need some support in creating a study timetable that covers the 11 Plus syllabus thoroughly. By working with them to set a study timetable, you can make them feel empowered and in control of their learning while making sure they're on track.
2. Make time for breaks, rewards, hobbies and socialising
Taking frequent and purposeful breaks from studying is proven to increase focus, productivity and energy. Purposeful breaks are those that have a defined activity that encourages social connection, physical movement, creativity or meditation. For kids studying for the 11 Plus, this can include:
Going to sports practice
Hanging out with friends
Listening to music
Crafting
Spending quality time with the family
Going out for a walk
Eating a delicious meal or snack.
Purposeful breaks can also motivate students to concentrate on their work because they know the study session has a defined end point when they'll get to enjoy a pleasurable activity.
3. Look out for signs of burnout
Burnout is a state of physical and emotional exhaustion caused by persistent stress. Children and teens can find themselves experiencing burnout when they feel overwhelmed by studying and under pressure to perform well. If you notice symptoms of burnout in your child, this could be a sign they're studying far too much and need more balance.
Encourage them to take a break, ask them to open up about the stress they're under, and help them access additional support from teachers or mental health professionals. Signs of burnout include poor sleep patterns, changes in appetite, irritability, loss of interest in their usual hobbies or pastimes, and a desire to spend more time alone than usual.
4. Balance is key to sustainable study
Achieving a sustainable study pace requires careful balance of work and play to prevent loss of focus or burnout. By giving your child control over their study schedule while providing supervision and support, you can keep them engaged and enthusiastic about their studies right up until the exam comes around.