Summer school is a roundly beneficial way for students to improve their grades, work ahead in their studies, and effectively counter the dreaded summer slide. But let’s be honest: it comes with its share of distractions.
Compared to the traditional school year, there’s a lot competing for a young person’s attention in the summer. They have friend hangouts, family vacations, weekend getaways, beach days, etc. Besides, even on a day devoid of activities, it can be tough to focus on schoolwork when the weather is so nice.
Because of these minor challenges, it benefits summer students to practice a few season-specific study tips. Here are a few ways to maximize your summer education.
Strike a Balance Between Studies and Enjoyment
Ideally, “completing summer school” and “enjoying the summer” shouldn’t be mutually exclusive. You can and should try to strike a balance.
The best way to find a harmony between personal enjoyment and academic success is to earn high school credits online over the summer. Online schools operate on a “self-paced” model, meaning that students can choose the timing and speed of their courses. At an accredited online school, students can complete their summer courses around other obligations (like social calendar, work schedule, family holidays, etc.).
Keep a Detailed Agenda
How does a student juggle a fun summer and a successful semester? With lots of detailed planning.
Input all of your non-school obligations and plans into an online calendar. Then, cross-reference this calendar with your course duration, including any set deadlines or important dates. From there, you should be able to slot study time around your other obligations.
Depending on how packed your non-school schedule is, this process may take some fancy maneuvering. But you’ll get there.
Practice Effective Short-Term Time Management
Now, there’s the matter of staying on track in the moment – ensuring that you spend your allotted study times effectively and productively.
To achieve this, consider implementing a short-term time management strategy. Some students like using productivity and time flow apps for this purpose, like Todoist, Evernote or Google Calendar. Others like to structure their time using interval methods like the Pomodoro Technique, 80/20 rule or Time Blocking Method.
Take Frequent Breaks (and Get Outside!)
Don’t work yourself into a burnout. It’s better for your long-term academic stamina if you take breaks. (Experts recommend a short break every 50 to 90 minutes while studying).
Not only do these rest periods give your brain a chance to “recharge,” but they allow you to soak in some fresh air and sunshine. And studies show that fresh air and sun are natural brain boosters.
Use Your Resources
Finally, before you start your summer course (or as soon as possible), make a list of your resources for help. These resources will include contact information for your teacher and a detailed list of where to find pertinent course material. But it may also include any tutoring services included in the price of your online school enrollment.
Best of luck in your education this summer!
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