All our experience and research shows that Exam preparation for GCSEs is a TWO YEAR programme; it is not something that starts after Christmas in year 11.
You need to make sure that you understand all the content you cover as you go through the year. If there are any aspects you do not fully understand, see your teacher immediately. You need to memorise material as you go through the course and it is almost impossible to memorise material that you do not fully understand. Do not wait until year 11 to focus on problem areas.
It is important to use EFFECTIVE techniques to memorise material.
Please find a link to a revision booklet that will support you with this. This has also been summarised onto a one page knowledge organiser.
You can find out more about these evidence based revision strategies here or from the book Ace That Test by the Learning Scientists. We also have a copy in our library.
Do not:-
- re-read multiple times,
- read and highlight,
- copy material out.
All of these activities require very little brain effort and thus have very little impact on your long-term memory.
At the core of your learning by heart should be:
(Click on each technique for further explanation)
- testing yourself (Retrieval Practice)
- returning to material, to review it, over time, multiple times. (Spaced Learning) The following techniques are also useful and have been proven to be EFFECTIVE.
- Elaboration – asking yourself ‘how’ and ‘why’ questions
- Dual Coding – using pictures as well as words. This might be in the form of a mind map.
- Interleaving – splitting revision sessions and varying topics/subjects rather than focusing on long blocks of the same thing
- Concrete Examples – using specific examples of a concept or technique to help you understand and memorise them.
When you come to the run-up to exams you will need a Revision Timetable. Blank month planners are available from your Head of Year or can be downloaded here.
All subject specific resources that you may need are available on our teams area.
Students frequently start to feel anxious and stressed as exam approach and it is important to look after your mental health.
Click here for a general guide to staying calm and happy and here to see a range of Apps for your phone.
Rushey Mead Academy has created Animated Study Skills videos for you to watch together (adults and children).
They are designed to support with completing homework as well as ways to prepare for tests and exams.
Please watch these together and discuss ways you can best support the development of independent home learning, which will support academic progress.
Please click the links below to view the videos.
Effective Study spaces – YouTube
Pomodoro Study Technique – YouTube
Organising your time – YouTube
Listening to music when studying – YouTube
Checking for Understanding – YouTube
Hydration & Energy Drinks – YouTube
The last piece of advice is to ASK your teachers – we are here to help if you aren’t sure of anything.
Dr Thompson
Work Hard, Be Kind, Be Proud