You felt at ease at secondary school, but since starting sixth form, you feel as though you have to run just to keep up. Or perhaps you were already struggling a bit and are wondering how to keep up. The core curriculum takes some getting used to. Struggling during the first few weeks doesn’t mean you don’t belong here.
Depending on your core curriculum, the subjects and their weightings vary. In science-focused pathways, the concepts covered in physics and chemistry and life and earth sciences are explored in greater depth; these are not entirely new subjects for all pupils. The TelmidTice portal allows [1] to find resources by level and course.
Here are eight practical habits to help you get through this first year with a clearer sense of direction.
1. Understand what each teacher expects
At the start of a chapter, check what type of work will be assessed: calculations, proofs, document analysis, written expression or demonstration of knowledge. Also check the criteria indicated on the marked papers.
An answer that is correct but lacks justification may not meet the requirements of the question. Identifying what is expected helps you avoid revising only the parts you find easy to memorise.
2. Go back to the basics as soon as you get stuck
A difficulty with fractions can hinder a physics problem; a misunderstood set of instructions can hold up a text analysis. Going back to the basics learnt at secondary school is not a step backwards.
Make a note of the minor skills that are holding you back. Set aside a short, separate session to work on them, then go back to the chapter you were on. You’ll see more clearly the link between the basics you’ve revisited and the problem you were trying to solve.
3. Have a go at it for the first time on the day of the lesson
Without waiting for the test, try to summarise the main idea of the lesson. Then ask yourself a simple question with your notebook closed. This first attempt will show you what is clear and what merely seems familiar.
You don’t need to do the whole session again. Ten well-focused minutes can be enough to prepare a good question for the next day.
4. Keep a record of your mistakes
After checking your work, choose two mistakes that are worth revising. Write down the cause and what you need to change: «I used a formula without converting the unit», for example.
Then try another similar question. Simply reading through the answer key doesn’t always tell you whether you’d be able to do it again on your own. The test specifically assesses your ability to recognise a [2] the answer and the effort to find it.
5. Plan your week before you get overwhelmed
Make a note of tests and assignments due. Set aside realistic time slots, taking into account journeys and other activities. Leave some leeway: a week packed to the brim leaves no room for the unexpected.
Start by tackling the task that requires the most attention whilst you’re still free. A short assignment can be done later; a difficult problem often requires a calmer mind.
6. Ask a specific question as soon as possible
«I don’t understand a thing» captures how you feel, but it doesn’t really help you get started. Instead, point out where you’re stuck: «Why can we use this theorem here?» or «What information in the document supports this conclusion?»
You can ask in class, after the lesson or within the framework set out by your teacher. A classmate can also explain their approach to you, provided you then check it for yourself.
7. Explore your sexual orientation without labelling yourself
Take note of the subjects that interest you, the ones in which you’re making progress, and the sort of work you enjoy. Talk to your teachers and a careers adviser if you have the opportunity.
One poor mark at the start doesn’t determine the whole of your school career. However, your difficulties and aspirations are useful information when thinking about what comes next. Ask your school about the official requirements and options available.
8. Stick to a pace you can maintain
Eating, sleeping, spending time with loved ones and taking breaks are all part of your week. Try not to spend every evening catching up on what you missed the night before. If the workload becomes too much, talk about it rather than keeping the problem to yourself.
To start with, choose just two habits from this article. For example: a quick revision after the lesson and two mistakes to work on each weekend. You can add the rest gradually.
If you’re struggling with a particular chapter, get in touch with Elite Academy, stating your core curriculum and the subject in question. The aim is to work out what to do next, and then regain confidence in your work.
Request support at secondary school →
→ See also: Physics and Chemistry at secondary school: how to raise your average mark from 8 to 14 · The perfect revision sheet: the template that really works
