Whilst students and teachers alike are no doubt counting down to the summer break, the reality is, extended time away from learning can be hugely detrimental, which is why tutoring online is so important. A whole six weeks of not focussing your attention or putting into practice theories and concepts you’ve spent an entire year learning can leave pupils feeling rusty when they do eventually return to their classrooms in September.
The idea of a learning loss, caused by six weeks of academic free time during the July and August period, has been well documented. Many teachers spend the first few weeks of the Autumn term desperately trying to get their class back up to speed and in the right head space for actively engaging in learning again. This obviously has a detrimental effect on the provision of new material, and means slower progress is made when it comes to moving through the curriculum.
Working with a maths and science tutor throughout the summer holidays is a great way for students, of all ages and abilities, to make progress in their learning and take positive steps towards meeting their educational goals. Here’s just some of the ways a tutor can support their students during the summer.
Young mulatto schoolgirl in glasses sitting at the table and showing perfect test results on colorful background.
The last few weeks of the school year are often filled with excitement and a variety of activities geared towards the more recreational side of the school spectrum. With end of school performances, trips, sports events, moving up days, award ceremonies and non-uniform days the focus is generally less on solid learning and more on relaxing.
After the rigours of a busy school year, there’s certainly no harm in taking the pressure off; however, these slower paced weeks where no new learning takes place, followed by the six-week break, can sometimes result in an extended period of stagnation.
Online tutors can help fill the gap during this time by encouraging and supporting students to revise topics they’ve already covered during the previous school year, in preparation for the new one in September. Reinforcing learning is key to help reduce that learning loss and put children in the best possible position to recommence their studies when they return to school.
No matter what stage of education you are at, the next level up is always going to be a challenge to some degree. However, there are some year group transitions that are more challenging than others.
For example, the transition from Year 6 into the first year of High School is a massive leap for all students to make, regardless of their abilities. Equally, transferring from year 9 into the first year of GCSE study can be daunting for many. As can the step from GCSE subjects to A Level.
Speaking to an online tutor about what to expect during those transitions, and how best to prepare for them, is a great way to help alleviate any anxiety about the return to academia. Students who can discuss their concerns, highlight areas they are currently struggling with and get a better idea of what they need to know for the next part of their educational career, will benefit from increased confidence and self-esteem.
A tutor can seamlessly bridge the gap between the two-year groups your child will be traversing over the summer break. With personalised lesson plans and focussed homework assignments, the level of work can gradually increase in depth, scope, and complexity so that the first few weeks back are not a shock to the system for your child.
In the higher levels of education, many students are presented with suggested reading for their summer holidays. Teachers set these lists, often to be completed voluntarily, because they understand the value these texts provide when it comes to preparing for the challenges that will lie ahead.
Of course, it is entirely up to your child whether they engage with these lists or not. Left to their own devices, students may be more inclined to spend their time on TikTok or hanging out with their friends. However, a personal online tutor can help provide a degree of encouragement to complete these lists, or should be suggested tasks in preparation for the year ahead.
Knowing that someone is touching base with them during this period, asserts a sense of accountability for those who need an element of encouragement with their studies. Without that input and expectation management, students will go six weeks with no contact at all with teachers. As a result, it won’t be until September when they are likely to “remember” the suggested reading list tucked into the bottom of their bag or languishing in an unread folder on their emails.
The further you go along your educational journey; the more teachers will want to see an element of independent learning. There is no more handholding, no constant reminders about homework that has been set or coursework that needs to be competed. Tasks are outlined, deadlines provided, and the rest is up to the student.
For students who are making the transition from one set of expectations to another, an online tutor can provide valuable support, advice and encouragement. Not only can they help students understand the theories and practices associated with their topic, but they can also provide tips on how to outline essays, manage their time, schedule work, organise their notes and set up revision flashcards.
The reality is, it’s important to do well in essential core subjects such as Maths and Science. An online maths tutor can help in a number of different ways that go far beyond simply helping to understand a particular area of the subject. No matter what your own individual needs, or your ultimate goals when it comes to your educational attainments, an online science tutor or maths tutor online will be able to tailor their approach to suit you and help you achieve the grades you are aiming for in your exams.
Our search tool can help you find the perfect tutor for your needs. Alternatively, get in touch with a member of our expert team by email (info@tutorspot.co.uk) or by calling 01509 265623.
