In over two decades of teaching, I've observed a critical gap in our education system: students are routinely taught what to learn but rarely how to learn effectively. This issue becomes particularly significant during exam preparations, especially for our current Year 11 students who missed their Year 6 SATs—their first real exposure to formal examinations—due to COVID-19 disruptions.
The Art of Organisation
Effective revision is not just about "doing some maths"; it requires structure and thoughtful organisation. Here’s how to optimise your study sessions:
- Create a Dedicated Study Folder: Organise materials into clearly labelled sections for each topic.
- Use Coloured Post-it Notes: Employ these for easy identification and quick access to specific topics.
- Develop a Detailed Study Timetable: This should specify not only when but exactly what you will study, incorporating planned breaks to enhance focus.
The Right Way to Use Past Papers
Using past papers effectively is more than just completing them:
- Complete Under Timed Conditions: Mimic exam conditions to enhance time management skills.
- Immediate Marking: Assess your answers right away to identify mistakes.
- Assess Your Scores: Use historical grade boundaries to evaluate your performance.
- Highlight Areas for Improvement: Use bright post-it notes to mark topics that need more attention.
How Parents Can Help
Parental involvement is crucial in the revision process:
- Daily Check-ins: Ask about the exam papers reviewed that day.
- Review Weak Areas: Focus on subjects where improvement is needed.
- Accountability: Ensure they adhere to their study timetable.
- Mobile Phones: Where are their mobile phones whilst revising, if they need to use the internet, they can use a computer
The Challenge for Current Year 11s
This year's Year 11 students are approaching their GCSEs without having experienced formal exams in Year 6, making it essential to develop robust revision habits now.
Effective Time Management Techniques for Revision Success
- Structured 60-Minute Sessions: 10 minutes of recap, 40 minutes of focused problem-solving, followed by 10 minutes of self-assessment.
- Traffic Light System: 30 minutes of intense study (Green), 10 minutes slow down and do light work (Amber), and a 5-minute complete stop and do nothing just relax (Red), repeated throughout the revision session.
- Strategic Question Timing: Use the rule of 1 minute per mark in GCSE exams to manage time effectively during practice.
- The Power Hour Planning Method: Before starting, select specific topics, gather all necessary materials, set clear goals, and eliminate distractions.
- Active Break Strategy: Balance 45 minutes of focused work with 15 minutes of break for physical activity and hydration, avoiding screens to keep the mind fresh.
Implementation Tips and Common Mistakes
Effective implementation is key to utilising time wisely:
- Visible Timers: Help keep track of time efficiently, avoid using a phone as it distracts students, a sand timer works great.
- Detailed Revision Timetables: Plan specific topics, not just generic "maths revision."
- Avoid Common Pitfalls: Such as cramming, over-focusing on one question, or poor planning.
Conclusion
Teaching students how to revise effectively is as important as teaching them the academic content itself. With proper organisation, a systematic approach to using past papers, and consistent parental support, students can maximise their potential and approach their exams with confidence.
