EXAM REVISION SIXTH-FORM - THE PARENTS' GUIDE TO
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2020 - 2021 The Parents’ Guide to Exam revision - Sixth Form
2020 - 2021 ©
THE PARENTS’
GUIDE TO
EXAM REVISION
SIXTH-FORM
The Parents’ Guide to Exam revision (Sixth Form) 2020 - 2021 ©
CONTENTS
26
6 Helping them
revise
Keeping them healthy 28 - Revision plans
16
Structuring revision and breaks
6 - Sleep
44
Why it’s important and how to get enough
32 - Ways you can help Click
m
take e and I’
8 - Eating Providing the right How to get involved in their revision you l
there l
homelife Exam nerves
38
Fuelling the body
12 - Hydration 18 - Routine 46 - Managing stress
Are they drinking enough water? How it frames positive habits During exam time What you can do to help
14 - Caffeine 22 - Being active 40 - Preparation 52 - Further support
Boosting energy or draining reserves? The key to mental and physical wellbeing How to help them prepare When to ask for help
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The Parents’ Guide to Exam revision (Sixth Form) 2020 - 2021 ©
Introduction
PARENTAL INVOLVEMENT IS KEY
TO STUDENT SUCCESS
We want our children to do well in exams Effective revision requires developing
and effective revision plays a crucial role. and growing essential life skills, such
Whilst you can’t revise for your child, there as good time management; the ability
are lots of ways you can help them revise to deal with situations when things go
for themselves. This ranges from spend- wrong; and finding the right balance
ing time with them to checking what they between work and play. These are areas
know and helping them remember things, where you have lots of experience and
to providing the right homelife so that they can help them develop systems that
can be at their most alert, healthy and work best for them.
resilient.
This guide shows how to support them
During sixth form, schools and colleges in making revision time as productive
actively encourage independent study to and helpful as possible, helping them
help prepare students that want to go on to keep a balanced lifestyle, and hints and
further education, where they will be ex- tips on providing a homelife that encour-
pected to take a more proactive approach ages success. We’ve mostly focused on
to finding out information for themselves. long-term support, but there are also
Sixth Form is a transition period and there some pointers on how you can help just
are many ways where your children will ahead of examinations when the pres-
benefit from your support and encourage- sure is especially high.
ment while they are finding out more about
which ways of learning suit them most.
I’m in
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me to !
Join us join
If you’re interested in regular updates
about other ways you can help your
teenage children, click here and join
our online community.
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Keeping them healthy
Sleep
Sleep is an essential element for Mobiles, screens and sleep A bedtime routine Avoid lie-ins
optimum health, so make sure your child
Getting enough sleep can be severly impaired Creating a “bedtime” routine, such as At the other end of the day, try to set a
is getting enough rest. Teenagers need
by ready access to a 24/7 online community switching the phone to silent, putting it routine so they get up at a similar time
a lot of sleep given the huge changes via their phones such as Instagram, Snapchat, away, taking a bath, having a hot drink each morning and, hard though it may
taking place in their bodies – somewhere WhatsApp and other messaging services, not and dimming the lights can all help be, try to limit lie-ins at the weekend.
between eight and ten hours each night. to mention their compulsion to play games calm the mind and prepare it for sleep. Long lie-ins disrupt their sleeping rhythm,
Tempting though it may be for them to and catch up with box sets late into the night. Keeping a notebook where any worries making it harder for them to go to sleep at
revise into the small hours, they will be or important things to do the next day an appropriate time on Sunday night and
much better off putting work aside and To combat this you may want to minimise the can be jotted down can help prevent the consequently, making it harder for them
settling down for an early night. Work number of screens they have in the bedroom, mind turning over once the lights go out to wake up on time on Monday mornings.
backwards! If they have to get up at 7.00 encourage them to have at least 30 mins and fretting about forgetting things thus Where possible, bedtimes and get-up times
am, then they need to be asleep by 11.00 screen-free time before settling down to sleep preventing sleep. should be similar from one day to the next
pm – which probably means being in bed and get them to use night screen settings in allowing the body to synch to a regular
much earlier. the evening to reduce glare (white light on Sticking to a similar routine every night cycle. Make plans for weekend mornings so
bright screens prevent sleepiness). Phones signals to the body that it is time for they have a reason to get up.
should be set to silent at bedtime so that sleep bed and helps it switch off so try to get
is not interrupted by phone notifiacations. your child into the habit of doing the
same things before bed and going to
Walk your talk!
TEENAGERS NEED ABOUT sleep at a similar time (especially on Are you setting a good example? It might
EIGHT TO TEN HOURS OF week nights). be harder for them to get into good sleep
SLEEP EACH NIGHT patterns if you are not following the advice
you give them.
I’m
Click interact
Useful links m iv
you t e and I’l e!
o thei l
r web take
site
Sleep
NHS
council
Live well
UK
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Keeping them healthy
Eating
Food is fuel for the body, so making Eating regularly Cook together Snacking
sure they eat at regular intervals with
It’s important that teenagers eat at regular This provides a very good opportunity The temptation to eat sugary, highly
plenty of healthy ingredients is vital.
intervals to avoid peaks and troughs in to spend time together and bond with salted, unhealthy snacks to keep energy
Try to ensure they have a healthy energy levels. Breakfast, lunch and dinner your teens. It’s a non-pressurized space levels up is not only bad for overall
breakfast before leaving the house should be punctuated with healthy snacks. for them to talk to you about things that health but can negatively impair their
(even if it is only cereal), provide a Providing a packed lunch and snacks for may be troubling them without making performance and ability to concentrate.
packed lunch and a nutritious supper them when they are on the go can help it the central focus – you can catch up on Help them make the right choices when
in the evening. ensure they are eating the right types of good news too. It gives you a chance to they are in a hurry by providing them
food. If possible, sit down for a family meal show them how to cook well-balanced with healthy alternatives. If chocolate is a
A balanced diet together at the end of each day (mobile and food and gives them life skills to take when must, swap milk chocolate or chocolate
tablet free!). Not only will this start a fantas- they leave home (whether that’s to go to bars for dark chocolate. This doesn’t
As well as their “five a day” (about a third tic lifestyle habit for them to take through work or go on to further education). It also mean they can’t have an occasional treat,
of the overall diet), everyone should have to adulthood, it will also provide a break means that, with enough practise, they’ll but it’s better to avoid eating high sugar
some starchy carbohydrate (another third), from being online and a chance to chat and be able to create a family dinner so the and salty foods too often.
and the remaining third split between share one another’s experiences that day. pressure isn’t all on you to feed the family.
protein and milk/dairy with a small
amount of fat . Ensure vegetarians and KEEP THE HOUSE STOCKED
vegans are getting enough protein with WITH PLENTY OF HEALTHY
plenty of protein rich vegetables (such SNACKS
as peas, sprouts, sweet corn, asparagus,
broccoli and avocado) as well as nuts,
pulses and beans.
Good food choices to maximise concentra-
tion include green leafy vegetables, herbs,
oily fish and pulses so try to include these
as a regular part of their diet – it will be
good for the whole family too!
Useful links
NHS - Eatwell BBC
Guide Good Food
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The Parents’ Guide to Exam revision (Sixth Form) 2020 - 2021 ©
Keeping them healthy
Growing up
As your teenagers are getting older and
more independent, they will be preparing
food for themselves and it’s not possible
for you to watch what they are eating Healthy snacks
every meal time. However, where possible, shopping list:
provide food for them rather than money
which they might be tempted to spend
on unhealthy favourites. Remember, they • Mixed nuts
are going to eat what you have available • Raisins
in the house, so if your fridge, freezer and • yoghurt
cupboards are full of good options, that’s • Fruit
what they’ll reach for when they’re hungry. • Dried fruit
• Popcorn
Fast food, sweets, crisps and other treats • Rice cakes
are absolutely fine, so long as they are a • Flapjacks
small part of an overall diet and not the • Dark chocolate
staple foods. However, tired teenagers • Carrot sticks
are often tempted by convenience and • Cottage cheese
“quick fix” energy boosts so may be drawn • Kale chips
towards unhealthy options despite your • Hummus
best efforts to encourage them otherwise. • Eggs
• Smoothies
• Olives
Walk your talk! • Peanut butter
The foods you have available in your house, • Avocado
and what you eat will influence your child’s • Tuna
choices. Are you being a good role model?
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The Parents’ Guide to Exam revision (Sixth Form) 2020 - 2021 ©
Keeping them healthy
Hydration KEEPING HYDRATED IMPROVES
CONCENTRATION AND
FOCUS
The teenage body is made up of around Eight glasses a day
60% water. Not drinking enough water
Health experts recommend all adults to
reduces productivity, both mentally
drink two or more litres of water a day.
and physically, and symptoms can This equates to roughly eight 250ml glass-
include tiredness, confusion, reduced es.
energy levels and the temptation to
snack when not actually hungry (thirst
is often mistaken for hunger).
Have water on hand at all times
The best way to make sure your child is
drinking enough is to ensure they have
water on hand at all times – at their desk,
in bottles in their bag when on the go, and
served alongside food. Plain water is ideal,
but to add interest, use natural ingredients
to give flavour – such as cucumber, lemon,
lime, orange, tangerine, mint or ginger.
Other drinks
Natural fruit juices are great, but can
be high in natural sugar, so why not
dilute them? Herbal teas or honey with
a dash of lemon offer hot, caffeine free
alternatives. Limit your child’s fizzy drink
intake – whether calorie controlled or
Walk your talk!
not, including energy drinks. They are all If your children never sees you drinking a
unhealthy if drunk in large quantities. glass of water they are less likely to think
of drinking themselves.
Useful links
Natural
NHS
Hydration
Live Well
Council
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Keeping them healthy
Caffeine Caffeine indicator
330 mg
Caffeine affects us in different ways, Energy shots and drinks
and different people are more sensi-
tive to it than others. On average,
Energy shots can be deceptive as they are tiny Amount of caffeine per cup
in quantity but often packed with caffeine – for
adults shouldn’t consume more than example a 60 ml shot can contain around
400mg of caffeine a day and adoles- 200mg of caffeine. Likewise, many energy
cents should have much less. drinks don’t necessarily have huge percent-
ages of caffeine, but they are served in large
Look out for caffeine volumes (half litre bottles) so the amount of
consumption caffeine your child is drinking is a lot (160mg
of caffeine in a can of Monster), whereas a 215 mg
Caffeine is present in coffee, tea, energy small glass of the same product would be fine.
drinks and chocolate so keep an eye on
how much of these your child consumes.
Energy shots are often very high in Effects of caffeine 135 mg
caffeine and a firm favourite with teens. Too much caffeine can result in loss of sleep,
Drinks with high caffeine (more than loss of energy, low mood and low concen-
150mg per litre) need to show this on tration – the opposite of what’s needed to
the label, although it is not always clear revise well. Caffeine is also long lasting, so
– and it doesn’t apply to drinks bought drinking caffeine-high drinks in the afternoon
in coffee shops. Lots of products high 95 mg
can still impact on your child’s ability to sleep
in caffeine are available in health food that night. It’s an absolute no to drinking 88 mg
shops which can give the impression coffee (or other caffeine fuelled drinks) late
that they’re good for wellbeing but, like in the evening to try and overcome tiredness
many things, can be harmful if taken in and revise into the night.
large quantities.
Grande Starbucks coffee
Keep an eye on their caffeine intake and, if 55 mg
Energy shot (5-hour)
If your child regularly drinks one or two possible, get them to avoid it completely 40 mg
cups of coffee each day, it’s absolutely fine from lunchtime as a year-round rule.
to continue this, even during exam time,
Instant coffee
Filter coffee
as their body will be used to it. What’s 20 mg
Diet Coke
Walk your talk!
Black tea
Red Bull
not good is introducing changes, so they Green
shouldn’t start drinking a cup of coffee or If you’re reaching for a strong coffee sever- tea
two during revision periods to help keep al times daily to try and keep your energy
them alert if this is not something they do levels up, you’re impacting your own
regularly. It’s more likely to make them ability to sleep at nights, as well as sending
jittery, hyper and unable to concentrate. the wrong message on how to manage
tiredness.
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Providing the right homelife
Environment WORK WITH YOUR CHILD TO
FIND A CALM SPACE TO
REVISE
Chatting Finding the right space
Teenagers have a reputation for being Help them find a calm space to revise.
non-communicative, so when they do chat Things to consider are noise levels, light-
to you, don’t be tempted to quiz them on ing, ability to store their papers tidily, not
how they’re getting on with revision and being disturbed by other family members.
studying every time! Of course you will Different people have different needs, for
want to show interest, but sometimes a some, background music is helpful to study-
complete break is a good thing and there ing, for others it’s a distraction. Different
are lots of other things you will want to talk locations can help some children, so rather
to them about. than always working in their bedroom, they
might like to use the dining room, or living
Bedroom area from time to time. Give your child
space to work out what works best for them
A calm environment can encourage sleep, (which may not be what works best for you).
so make sure their room is a comfortable
temperature; their linen is fresh, clean and
cosy; they have blackout blinds/curtains to
Other options
reduce light in summertime (or eyeshades If there’s not a good place to revise at
if that’s not possible) and that it is quiet. home, maybe they could spend time in
Of course, you can’t be responsible for a local library or a local café with wifi, to
whether or not they keep their room tidy help inspire them by providing a different
(although you can try to encourage it) environment (and where adults working
but it is proven that a calm, uncluttered can act as role models). Varying the
environment helps relaxation. revision space can be helpful in creating
new energy to take in things differently.
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The Parents’ Guide to Exam revision (Sixth Form) 2020 - 2021 ©
Providing the right homelife
Routine IT’S VITAL FOR EFFECTIVE
STUDY THAT YOUR CHILD
TAKES REGULAR BREAKS
Routine is important, not only Keeping routines
when it comes to creating a revision
It’s also much more difficult to “duck out” of
timetable, but also for homelife
activities when they are part of the regular
in general. People respond well routine rather than occasional exceptions.
to routine and by creating regular For example, if the family always spends
activities at regular times, you are half-an-hour together to eat and chat at
creating your own family rituals and around 6.00 pm, it’s much more difficult to
traditions. take food upstairs while revising or snack in
another room than it would be if the regular
Home timetable routine were to eat in different places at
different times. As far as you can, don’t
Try to set breakfast, dinner, family time, encourage your teen to take mealtimes in
family activities at similar times to create their room (or in front of the television).
stability and familiarity. It can be difficult
when everyone has their own schedule
but it is worth having some anchor points Improve time management
throughout the week when you all get Creating regular activities at regular times
together, such as breakfast at 7.15 am on of the day will help your child take breaks
weekdays or at 9.00 am at weekends, or from revising as well as improve their
family dinners on Monday, Wednesday time-management skills by having to
and Friday at 6.30 pm. organise revision around these times.
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Providing the right homelife
Taking a break
It’s vital for effective study that your a chance to switch off, refocus and assim-
child takes regular breaks (both long ilate information, it’s an important way to
and short) – without feeling guilty! find an appropriate work-play balance to
ensure a productive and happy life in the
Short breaks long term. Try and help them ensure their Ideas for revision breaks
breaks include a variety of different activities
When helping them create a revision (not just staying in their room watching a Encourage your child to:
timetable, ensure they factor in five or ten Netflix series).
minute breaks within 30 or 60 minute study • Get creative, such as painting, puzzling,
sessions. Short bursts of studying produce Taking a day off sewing or drawing
much better results than long stretches.
From time to time, we all need to take • Get active, such as going to the gym or
a break. When things get tough, it can playing sport
Long breaks sometimes be helpful to step away from the
It’s important for them to take time out and problem and revisit it with a calm mind and • Get some fresh air by taking a walk or
do things they enjoy – such as watching a renewed outlook rather than struggle on. If, sitting outside
film, being part of their regular sports team, on occasion, your child doesn’t stick rigidly
attending a gig, spending time with friends to their revision timetable, don’t worry, they • Go screen free and read a book or
and family. Not only does this give the brain are probably doing enough to stay on track. magazine
• Interact with others by chatting to a friend
or family member
• Relax by taking a bath, watching an
episode of their favourite TV series or
listening to some music
• Refuel by preparing a healthy snack and
eating it away from their desk or computer
• Recharge by having a power nap
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Providing the right homelife
Being active
Being active is a key component in visiting an aquarium.*
healthy living – both for mental and
physical health. If you can arrange Of course, it’s great if you can do some
some outdoor activities with your activities together, but they’ll also want
child this will not only give you some to exercise alone or with friends. This can
quality time together, it will ensure also increase the chances of them having
they are getting out in nature, taking life-long healthy habits as well as releasing
energy and making themselves physically
a break from being online and getting
tired (instead of just mentally tired, which
some exercise. Active hobbies release
can make it hard to sleep).
“happy” hormones that are fantastic
for regulating mood, promoting If your child is not keen on being active (for
self-confidence and reducing stress. example they don’t like swimming, playing
sports, running or dancing) encourage
Doing active things as a family not only them to take regular walks to boost
helps bond but also creates an expecta¬- circulation, stretch their muscles and be
tion that life should include “doing” (being outdoors. It is very important that they
physical in some way) as well as “resting” spend some time being active outside
(such as watching TV or going to the every week.
cinema). Good examples include going for a
walk together, joining Parkrun on Saturday *Some activities and attractions are likely
mornings, taking a day out to a castle or local to close, given the current circumstances.
attraction, visiting a national park or city Listen carefully to the guidance given by
farm. If the weather’s poor, there’s ten-pin the government and limit all social inter-
bowling, table tennis, visit¬ing a museum action if you or your child display flu-like
or stately home, ice-skating, swimming or symptoms.
Useful links
Health for NHS
teens UK Live Well
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23The Parents’ Guide to Exam revision (Sixth Form) 2020 - 2021 ©
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Helping them revise
Planning
Sit with your child and help them Goal setting Factor in relaxation time Be strict yet flexible
work out a revision timetable,
As well as long term goals (i.e. passing the You can also make sure they are taking Part of the value in creating a revision
planning months ahead of exam
exams), help them break down their different longer breaks by including activities that timetable is to ensure all topics are covered
time - not just weeks before! Smaller, revision goals, so they will get a sense of are not related to revision so that they can in the lead up to exams, rather than your
regular revisions sessions are achievement after every revision session. still enjoy time with friends and family and child getting side-tracked by one subject
usually much more productive than Feeling that they have done what they set out their hobbies. Even in the lead up to exam they either find very difficult or prefer doing.
cramming (or leaving everything to do will positively reinforce and encourage time, taking time out is important. Sticking to the timetable is important and
until the last minute, which increases them to start their next revision session promotes self-discipline. However, sometimes
stress) so starting revision well in feeling capable rather than over-whelmed. things take longer than expected, so don’t
advance is a good strategy. Also, get cross if your child deviates from the plan.
it leaves time to adjust and adapt Keep subject focus A good idea is to factor in some unassigned
if what seemed like a good idea in revision time to make flexibility easier.
theory doesn’t prove as helpful in Try to stick to just one or two subjects on
practice. weeknights to help them stay focused and A REVISION TIMETABLE WILL
block the sessions into chunks with short
breaks in between. For example, rather than HELP STRUCTURE REVISION
If your child is well organised and wants
to create their own timetable without suggest revision from 7 pm until 9 pm, have AND KEEP YOUR CHILD
your help, fantastic! If possible, get them revision in 25 minute stretches with five FOCUSED
to share it with you and talk through why minute breaks in between. This doesn’t mean
they’ve structured it the way they have so they can’t spend 50 minutes on one subject, it
you can help tweak it early on if you spot just allows them to rest their eyes and change
areas that could be improved. thinking patterns by taking a break in between.
Where possible, maximise opportunities to
study during the day (i.e. at the times to when
examinations will take place) as recollection
can be better at a similar time of day as when
the original memory was created.
Useful links
Down
load
me!
Revision
template
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Helping them revise
Revision timetable - Easter holiday
Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday
8am Economics Geography Business exam Economics
Revise unit 1 Make note on paper 1 – timed Family Time off Practice
key words case studies conditions (2hr) breakfast Section A Qs
9am Geography Economics
Revise rivers Guitar lesson Make notes on Guitar lesson
unit 2
10am Geography Business Economics
Essay question revision day Make flash
on rivers with friends cards
11am Economics Geography Geography Business
Revise unit 1 Make notes on Time off Revise paper 1 Revise product
diagrams case studies notes life cycle
LUNCH LUNCH LUNCH LUNCH LUNCH LUNCH
2pm Business Economics Geography Business
Revise product Revise Netball club and exam paper 1 – Revise product
life cycle globalization swim lesson timed life cycle
3pm Business Economics conditions Economics /
Revise break Revise free (90mins) Business
even graph trade
4pm Economics / Business
Business Revise Dinner and Evening off
business law cinema
5pm Gym Time off Gym
6pm Time off Time off Time off
Evening Geography Economics Geography
Look through Look over Look through
unit 1 notes formulas unit 1 notes
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Helping them revise
Understanding their revision style
Every child works differently and what to make learning easier for them. If you
works for one child may not work at all haven’t already, identify what learning Auditory
for another. However, in broad terms, style works best for your child and help
there are four different learning styles them construct revision around this Auditory learners prefer to listen and speak, so they should
and, whilst using a combination of these learning style to make study sessions work around these themes:
styles can be effective (and indeed, some more productive and less boring. If they 1. listening to pod casts and audio books where the infor-
styles overlap), some children (and as have a preference for digesting infor- mation they should learn is spoken aloud;
adults later) will exhibit a preference for mation in a specific way, it will be more 2. joining study groups so they can listen and talk over
one style over another – it just seems interesting and stimulating for them. ideas with others;
3. listen to speakers/teachers/lecturers whether in live
sessions or online;
Visual Learners 4. engage with you by talking, discussing and explaining
what they know;
Visual learners prefer colour and pictures, so they should work 5. using sound and music to help them learn;
around these themes: 6. teaching (or pretending to teach) others to demonstrate
1. make their notes colourful, with different colour pens, knowledge;
paper, highlighters and post-its; 7. speaking answers to past papers aloud.
2. use images and pictures instead of words;
3. use symbols to represent key messages;
4. use maps and charts where possible;
5. adapt text to flow charts; Tactile Learners
6. express change and ideas in diagrams;
7. use doodles when note taking. For others, their preferred method of learning is through
action or movement. This is good for practical areas, such
as experiments in science and drama, but can require a little
extra imagination to help them translate theory to practice.
Reading writing 1. Where possible, do the activity themselves (cooking,
carpentry, design);
For some, the traditional method of reading and writing still 2. Use real life examples to help them understand abstract
works best, so they should work around these themes: concepts;
1. Take lots of notes (both during lessons and during study); 3. Take frequent breaks to enable them to be active;
2. Re-write notes in different styles; 4. Use art and drawing to help memorize ideas and themes;
3. Do lots of practice papers; 5. Study in groups and act out the material;
4. Use post-it notes to emphasis key points; 6. Make study sheets and flash cards to help memorize
5. Use highlighters to make important items stand out; information;
6. Read books, online articles, magazines and their own 7. Watching videos of people doing the activity (when they
notes. can’t do it themselves).
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Helping them revise
Ways you can help
Practise and repetition Timed exams / questions
If you have the time and it’s something Closer to the exams your child will benefit
they’d find helpful, give them the chance from completing a number of past exam
to recite, repeat and practise what they’ve questions. Help them prepare by creating an
learnt with you. Even if you don’t know the environment that resembles the conditions
answers, the opportunity to say out loud they are likely to experience in the exam hall
what’s in their mind can help clarify whether - minimise external sounds, setup a clear
they have grasped the concepts or whether desk and if you can, locate a single clock to
they are still hazy. This style of revising might encourage your child to time manage under
not appeal to those who prefer reading/ test conditions. Once the allocated time
writing, but it’s especially useful to aural and has come to an end, get your child to stop
tactile learners. writing as they may be tempted to continue.
If they did not finish get them to reflect on
Other ways you might be able to help is the reasons why. Do they need to do more
using quizzes, mind maps, white boards, revision, improve their time management or
multiple choice or sound bites to see what work on their exam technique?
they’ve learned.
Host a revision day* Act as the student
Another effective revision technique is to
Revising together can also help, so encourage
encourage your child to speak through their
them to revise with friends if it’s something
subject knowledge. By taking on the role of
they enjoy. This gives them a chance to test
the student, ask your child to explain a topic
one another, swap revision notes and revise
from one of their subjects. Listen carefully
in different atmospheres. But don’t compare!
and don’t be afraid to ask them a question
Everyone is different, so whilst it’s fine to hear
if you do not fully understand what they are
how other children are revising (either directly
saying. Studies have shown that one of the
from them or via their parents) it doesn’t mean
best ways to revise is by teaching others.
they are doing better or worse than your child.
*This may not be appropriate given the
current circumstances. Listen carefully to
the guidance given by the government and
limit all social interaction if you or your child
display flu-like symptoms.
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Helping them revise
More ways you can help
Memory Prepare yourself
Research indicates we retain different If your child’s forgetful in giving you their
amounts of information depending on examination timetable, arrange to get one
how we receive it. Most people only for yourself from their school or college:
remember 10% of what they have read for that way there are no nasty surprises!
the first time, whereas they will remember Put their exams and important dates in
30% if they have watched a demonstra- your own calendar or diary so that you
tion. don’t forget what’s coming up.
It’s a good idea for your child to use lots of Don’t make arrangements for big days out
different ways of reviewing the same infor- or several days away from home during
mation which will help them remember intense revision time (i.e. just before
more over longer periods of time. Use this exams). It can be both distracting and
in combination with their preferred learn- unsettling to have a packed agenda when
ing style (page 28) for maximum effect. their focus should be on revision. This
does not include shorter family outings
Motivating them to revise (for a couple of hours or half a day) to
make sure they take rest time.
Don’t be tempted to use bribery (such as
financial incentives or exemption from
chores) to get them to revise. They are Year 13
doing this for them, not you! However, Make sure you’re familiar with the rhythm
encourage them to be motivated by of Year 13 so you are aware of challenging
helping them visualise how their revision periods. That way you can avoid making
and examinations are connected to their arrangements that might put too many
goals and ambitions and rewarding them demands on their time.
when they work hard with treats such as
making their favourite dinner or watching
a film together.
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Helping them revise
Key milestones
Back to school
Your child may or may not have
exams as they begin their Yr 13
SEPTEMBER 2020 journey; however it is essential
that they start the year as they
mean to go on. Help them pre-
UCAS references pare a clear space for study.
As University applications
are being prepared, subject
teachers are beginning to
OCTOBER write your child’s references
(including their predicted
grades). A good work ethic
and early revision is a positive
approach. Christmas holidays
Most schools will schedule mock
examinations either just before
or just after the Christmas hol-
DECEMBER idays. Encourage your child to
approach the holiday period
maturely with a healthy balance
Mock examinations between revision and socialising.
Try to approach these with
an attitude similar to those of
the official exams. Mimicking
JANUARY 2021 exam conditions will help
reduce nerves when the final
exams begin. Easter holidays
The emphasis here is independ-
ent learning. Schools are closed
for 2-3 weeks and your child will
have a significant period of time
APRIL to revise and study. If your child
hasn’t created a revision timeta-
May half-term / examinations ble yet, now is the time. This will
Your child may or may not help focus and structure their
have completed some of their revision efforts.
MAY
exams already. May half-term
is a crucial time for consoli-
dation and reflecting on their
past exam performance.
Examinations
JUNE This should not be a time for
cramming.
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During exam time
During exam time EXAM TIME CAN BE STRESSFUL
SO HELP YOUR CHILD
FEEL IN CONTROL
Feeling in control will be very impor- Eating
tant to their mindset when entering an
Ideally your child should eat a healthy
exam. Being late, rushed and forget-
breakfast ahead of morning exams. If they
ting things has the opposite effect. are not keen on eating first thing in the
Yes, they are almost adults, but exam morning, then make something that they
time is stressful and a little pampering can take with them and eat once they’ve
might help. Spend time with them arrived at school – ensuring they have
the evening before the exam going left enough time to eat it before the exam
through all the things they will need starts! Entering a long exam on an empty
and making sure they have packed stomach won’t help them perform well.
them in their bag (pens, pencils, ruler
paper, dictionary, calculator etc). Don’t let them have too many stimulants
before an exam. They might be tempted
Help them prepare to fuel themselves with sugar, caffeine
or taurine, whilst this could produce a
Have all the clothes they plan to wear ready temporary high it’s possible they might
(so there is no last minute searching!) and be too hyped to focus calmly at the
help them consider what they need. It may beginning of the exam, and then find their
be summertime and very warm outside, energy levels dipping significantly half way
but if there is air-conditioning in the exami- through, making them sleepy. It’s fine for
nation centre, they’ll want something warm them to have a coffee if that’s what they
to slip over summer shirts and blouses. usually do – but not if they don’t.
Prepare lunch, snacks and a clear water If they are doing two exams in one day,
bottle for them to take with them – as well they’ll need something to revitalise them at
as making sure they have set their alarm lunchtime and a water bottle they can refill
leaving enough time for them to have a to ensure they’re drinking enough. If mints
healthy breakfast and wake up fully before and gum are permitted in the examination
heading to the exam. centre, it might help concentration.
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During exam time
Drinking that the journey will be traffic or accident
free, even if it’s a route you take on a
It’s great for them to be fully hydrated regular basis, allow extra time. Your child
before an exam, but if they have too will want to familiarise themselves with CHECKLIST:
many fluids they may frequently need the their surroundings, may wish to use the
bathroom, so strike a balance! rest room, perhaps have a snack before Avoid any last-minute stress on the morning of the
the exam (food is not usually allowed). exam by preparing the night before.
Getting there Once an exam has started, most centres
Whether they are travelling alone or you’re won’t allow late entrants because it unfair- Double-check the date, time and location of
taking them, allow plenty of time in case ly disturbs other students and, no matter their exam
there are delays on the way. Don’t assume how earnest, exceptions will not be made.
Have they prepared the equipment they
will need for their exam including special
equipment, such as a calculator, dictionary,
REDUCE MORNING STRESS BY protractor. These should be kept in a clear case
PLANNING AHEAD
They will need a watch (no smart watches) to
help them keep to time during the exam
Make sure they get their clothes ready to avoid
any morning rush
Make sure your house is fully stocked for a
healthy breakfast
Make sure they’ve packed a clear water bottle -
hydration is important!
Try to encourage them to have an early night.
It’s OK for them to do some light revision the
night before, but they should not be cramming
late into the night
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During exam time
Supporting your child
Be positive Cramming
Be positive and reassure them about what The night before or morning of the exam
they have achieved to help boost their confi- is not the right time to start trying to learn
dence before going into an exam. Don’t add new information, so as far as you can,
to their stress by telling them they haven’t help them to avoid this type of panicked
done enough (even if that’s what you think!) learning. It’s fine for them to go over notes
and remind them that failing the exam is not they’ve already made and reviewed sever-
the end of the world. They can always retake al times already but it’s better to avoid
it or choose to do something else. trying to learn something new.
Be interested Household chores
Give your child an opportunity to chat with Give your children a break from household
you after each exam to talk through how chores during exam time. They are under
they felt it went, if that’s what they want to enough pressure, so let them off the extra
do. Focus on the positives where you can work until exams are over.
– rather than the areas they struggled with.
Remember, once an exam is over they can’t Talk about exam nerves
change their answers, so focus on what’s
coming up and can be positively influenced. Exams make some people more nervous
than others. If they are nervous, reassure
them that it’s completely natural to feel
General health anxious about taking exams and give them
Getting enough sleep, eating well, drinking space to explain to you how they are feeling
plenty of water, being active, taking time and whether the nerves are manifesting in
out are all essential for performing well physical or mental symptoms. Don’t make
during exams, so pay special attention to them feel anxious about feeling anxious!
these areas and try to help your child do
as many of the right things as possible. If you are concerned about their levels
of anxiety, see more detail in Chapter 5,
Exam Anxiety.
Useful links
Mumsnet
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Exam anxiety
Exam anxiety
It’s perfectly natural for your child to Prolonged periods or bouts of intense anxie- Signs of anxiety and stress • Talking over and over the same
be worried about taking exams and ty may have a negative impact, but there concern and being unable to either
are lots of ways you can help them manage It’s good to be aware of the signs of
how they will perform – you might
this anxiety and use routines to help keep anxiety and stress so you can watch out stop thinking about it or to find relief;
even be a little worried too! for them. A change in behaviour for a
them calm. If you haven’t introduced them • Physical symptoms (sweaty palms,
to some of these techniques already, we’ve day or two might be nothing to worry
In small doses, anxiety can be a good about, but if you notice a regular change, shaking, fast heartbeat, aching
thing: helping your child to focus, get included some suggestions.
then it’s usually a sign that something is muscles);
motivated to study and even recall wrong. Some of the more common signs
However, in some cases there can be times • Restlessness and being unable to stay
answers they were unaware they’d of anxiety include:
when anxiety reaches exceptional levels still;
learnt. and professional support is required. How • Losing interest in things they’ve previ- • Inability to concentrate (such as
can you tell the difference? ously enjoyed;
taking in what’s happening in a TV
• Behaving in the opposite way to programme);
IT’S GOOD TO BE AWARE OF usual – quiet children can become
very chatty, chatty children can get • Panic attacks;
THE SIGNS OF ANXIETY SO YOU
withdrawn; • Not sleeping.
CAN WATCH OUT FOR THEM
• Being grumpy and irritable;
Remember to keep perspective. If they
• Lots of headaches and digestive have had several late nights, they are
problems (stomach aches, diarrhoea, likely to be tired and this increases
constipation, vomiting etc); irritability. If they’ve been exercising, they
• Worrying all the time, this can show might have aching muscles. If they’ve just
itself in only picturing negative run to meet you, they’ll have a fast heart
outcomes (what if I fail, I’m going to rate. Individual or a short-term combina-
fail, I can’t do this); tion of the above symptoms are normal.
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Exam anxiety
How to help
If you notice your child is suffering, Physical activities – It doesn’t Talking – it may not be to you! A Avoiding stimulants – bright lights,
it’s time to help them. That doesn’t matter what activity - dancing, football, sibling, grandparent, family friend or loud music, caffeine, sugar, alcohol, too
always mean you stepping in (that swimming, walking – so long as it’s friend at school or perhaps a charity much excitement (a thrilling computer
could add to the anxiety) although it’s something they enjoy, gets their endor- chatline. Expressing worries out loud can game, exciting movie) can all promote
good to let them know you’ve noticed phins flowing and requires focus so the sometimes make them feel less signifi- adrenaline production and increase
something’s wrong and give them a mind is concentrating on something differ- cant than when they’re playing on loop in feelings of anxiety, so these are best
chance to talk to you if they want to. ent. Team games are great, as connectivity the mind. Talking aloud also encourages avoided.
Avoid broaching the subject in front and communications with others is restor- finding their own solutions – prompts
of others, this could make them feel ative. such as ‘what would need to happen Reducing lighting (have dimmable lights
to make you feel better’, can help them or table lamps in the bedroom) also
embarrassed or inadequate and make
them feel worse (they might think
Music – Music has an amazing ability to reframe to seeking solutions rather than helps to increase feelings of calm and can
transport you to a different time and place. dwelling on troubles. help prepare for sleep.
they are doing a job good of hiding it). Anything that evokes positive memories
Don’t forget, the aim isn’t to eliminate and experiences is a good thing. To reduce
anxiety but to teach them how to anxiety, it’s better to listen to relaxing and
manage it. calming music rather than something that
stimulates.
There are two ways to help. Encourage EXPRESSING WORRIES OUT
them to take part in an activity that will LOUD CAN SOMETIMES MAKE
provide a distraction so they stop thinking
about whatever is making them anxious. THEM FEEL LESS SIGNIFICANT
Giving the brain some time out from
worrying can help obtain a better perspec-
tive later.
Useful links
Anxiety UK Childline
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Exam anxiety
The second way to help is to provide an Mindfulness with meditation, breathing Practising yoga regularly has been Herbs and smells – For centuries we’ve
opportunity for them to learn some proven techniques, visualisation or yoga. Anxiety proven to improve the heart rate as well used herbs and smells to invoke different
techniques which help reduce anxiety. It’s can induce rapid, shallow breathing which as physical strength. Meditation trans- atmospheres. Essential oils can be burnt
a really good idea for your child to practise encourages the heart to beat faster to ports the mind to a completely different in diffusers, added to baths, placed on
some of these methods when they’re not try and compensate for lack of oxygen. place and experience. There are many candles, mixed with water as a spritz or
anxious, so they can familiarise themselves Learning slow breathing and how to take different types of meditation including poured on a tissue (great for on the go and
with the approaches and get comfortable deep breaths has an immediate physical auditory (describing experiences) and to pop in a pocket) and are inexpensive
with the experience and how it makes effect and is particularly useful in prevent- visual (looking at something). These to buy. Some useful staples are: lemon
them feel. Then, should anxiety strike, it’s ing anxiety escalating. Meditation, visual- activities can be done in short or long (promotes concentration and calming);
something they’re relaxed about doing. isation and yoga all encourage positive bursts and alone or in groups, which lavender (reduces stress and can help
Regularly practising relaxation techniques breathing techniques. makes them ideal to put into practise sleep), jasmine (uplifting and calming),
helps keep anxiety at bay too. Some good when on the go or needing a ready tool peppermint (invigorating so helps to
choices are: Apps like Headspace can be loaded on the when nerves strike. clear the mind) and rosemary (acts as a
phone so your child readily has help to pick-me-up).
hand in any place at any time.
Herbal teas are a great caffeine free hot
PRACTISING RELAXATION drink and, as well as benefiting from the
TECHNIQUES CAN HELP smell, the herbs work within the system
REDUCE FEELINGS OF too. Try camomile, peppermint, lavender
or lemon balm.
ANXIETY
Useful links
NHS
Headspace
exam nerves
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Exam anxiety
Reflecting on your own behaviour REDUCE EXAM NERVES BY
FOCUSING ON EFFORT
RATHER THAN OUTCOMES
A common reason for children being reinforcement for something good that’s
anxious is the expectation their parents been achieved, rather than “Well done, all
have and the worry that they cannot that revision’s really going to help you pass
live up to that and will let everyone your exams” which sets an expectation for
down. You may unwittingly be putting a future event yet to be achieved.
pressure on your child by being
positive about how well they will do. There are other options
You may think you’re being reassuring
by saying, “of course you’re going to As an adult with your own life experience,
pass every exam” and expressing your you know that doing well in exams will
faith in them; they may misinterpret open doors and provide lots of opportuni-
what you mean and take it that if they ties to succeed. You’re keen to make their
don’t pass every exam you’ll be disap- life easier. But exams are not for everyone,
pointed and think less of them. and if your child doesn’t do well in theirs,
there are plenty of other options and lots
That’s why it’s a good idea to focus of routes to success. Keep this front of
on effort rather than outcomes: “I’m mind so you don’t give them the impres-
really impressed that you finished your sion the world starts and ends with their
revision this afternoon” gives positive exams.
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Exam anxiety
Where to get support
Professional support includes more of a similar age can sometimes feel
than counsellors and psychiatrists easier than speaking to an adult, or
(although both these approaches can speaking to someone just slightly
be helpful). There’s a range of profes- older, who has more recently been
sional options available including: through a similar experience can be
very reassuring;
1. Teachers at school – both in an
academic capacity to help understand 4. Charities – most now offer both online
subjects better, as tutors to help create and telephone support. This anonymity
better ways of working outside school (i.e. not being face-to-face) can make
and pastoral experts who can help talking over problems and worries easier.
with emotional issues;
2. Some schools have an independent Too much anxiety
counsellor available with whom your If your child is showing several signs of
children can talk in confidence (i.e. anxiety on a regular basis (several days
they will not relay the information to each week) over a prolonged period of
the school); time (several weeks) then do seek help
3. Peer support networks – these can be from external support services and a good
very helpful as speaking to someone place to start might be visiting your GP.
Useful links:
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Final words
Sixteen to eighteen is a very exciting period ing boundaries and working together to pro-
in your child’s development. They are transi- vide similar home experiences is the most
tioning into adulthood and starting to con- helpful way forward, though this can be dif-
solidate their own ways of living and viewing ficult, especially when split-ups have been
the world. But these are challenging years especially painful and personal wounds are
too, with many demanding physical chang- yet to heal. A child that has two completely
es, the prospect of leaving school or college different home rules depending on which
and starting afresh in a new and alien en- parent they are staying with receives mixed
vironment (whether further education or messages and will likely choose to follow
work) and the pressure of examinations. the rules they prefer (which isn’t necessarily
the ones that put them on the best path for
You cannot eliminate all the stress for them happiness and success).
but you can certainly contribute to reducing
the stress and helping them find the most Whilst it’s important to keep the end goal in
constructive ways to study and revise well, sight, don’t do this at the expense of enjoy-
alongside reinforcing healthy lifestyle habits. ing the experience of living together. Con-
stant nagging, sending them to their rooms
Where there are two parental figures at to revise, berating about the importance of
home, whether step-parents or biological exams or not doing enough will make both
parents, it’s important to work as a team of you miserable. Be proactive in supporting
and keep messaging consistent. Likewise, them and leave space for other experiences
for those parents with joint custody, agree- for you both to enjoy along the way.
Join us
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