Exam Preparation

1
Exam Preparation
2
The Holidays

• The holidays are not far away. Take advantage of
  them!
• This is the time to get things done - remember,
  next term will be flat chat!
• Relax, clear the mind and charge the batteries.
• Thoroughly summarise and revise each of your
  subjects.

3
Getting started - Structuring a study timetable

• Study sessions dont just happen. They need to be
  organised!
• Make yourself a study timetable. Keep in mind
  other commitments such as casual employment etc.
• During the holidays, get up at the same time as
  you would if it was a normal school day.
• Complete study sessions in the morning, afternoon
  and evening.

4
Todays efforts determine tomorrows
achievements.

• (anon)

5
Structuring a study timetable

• Read your English books for half an hour being
  going to bed.
• Plan your study sessions subject by subject
• Divide your time equally between subjects.
• Utilise your most effective study times for
  harder subjects.
• Set study goals each week.

6
Structuring a study timetable -Getting to know
yourself!

• At what time of day do you study most
  effectively?
• What study techniques work for you?
• When do you remember most productively?
• With these questions in mind, revise and update
  your study timetable at regular intervals

7
Study timetable

• Consider other commitments (employment,
  appointments etc)
• Make sure you allocate equal amounts of time to
  each subject

8
Summarising your notes

• Once your study timetable is established you can
  start summarising your notes.
• Having summaries of the days notes for each
  subject is vital.
• Build up an organised sequence of summaries for
  each subject.
• Have a revision/summary folder for each subject.
• Continually revise and condense your notes.

9
Summarising your notesHow to summarise

• 1. Read the material you wish to summarise.
• 2. Write down 2 or 3 key words for each
  paragraph.
• 3. Write down the main point and an example for
  each key word.
• 4. Link examples together using your own words.

10
Remembering your notes

• Remembering subject matter and then being able to
  reproduce it are keys to successful study.
• You have to train the brain to remember.

11
Remembering your notes

• This can be done by
• repeating
• using different approaches
• consulting alternative texts
• rhyme and routine
• group association
• acronyms
• summary cards/posters

12
Remembering your notes

• Work out which memory technique works best for
  you.
• You may work better at remembering by yourself or
  with a friend.

13
Preparing for the exam -class time

• Consistent attendance and performance in class is
  essential.
• During class, be alert, prepared, involved and
  thorough.
• Be hungry for success - ask questions and clarify
  uncertainties.
• Go over your notes that night!

14
Preparing for the exam -private study periods

• Dont waste this time!
• Be prepared and set goals for your study periods.
• Use this time to consult with teachers, iron out
  uncertainties, discuss drafts, utilise the
  schools resources.
• By effectively utilising study periods, you will
  have more time at home for revising.

15
Preparing for the exam -discipline yourself

• As exams approach, reduce your social life
• Exercise daily to help ease the pressure of
  study.
• Get rid of any distractions.
• Eat healthy meals and get enough sleep.
• Use your travel time to read over notes.
• Put up posters of key points around the house.

16
Exam technique

• Know the exam format.
• Know your summaries.
• Test yourself - practice under exam conditions.
• Use past exam papers.
• Make a list of things you need to improve on,
  work through the list systematically.

17
Sitting the exam

• Arrive 10 minutes before the exam - dont rush,
  but dont be to early.
• Make sure you bring all the equipment you will
  need.
• Wear a watch.
• Approach the exam in a calm, business like manner.

18
Positive Self Talk is an essential

• I can do it,I will do it!
• (anon)

19
Sitting the exam

• Use your reading time wisely. Ensure that you
  understand any instructions on the front cover of
  the exam.
• Read the exam carefully, plan your approach.
• Make sure you know which questions you have to
  answer and where you must answer them.

20
Sitting the exam

• Identify any questions you can do as soon as
  writing time begins. Doing these will build up
  your confidence for more difficult questions.
• During writing time, underline/highlight key
  words and phrases.
• Do plans for each question - assess whether you
  are addressing the question.

21
Sitting the exam

• When you have completed the exam, go over it
  carefully and check your answers.
• Ensure you have completed anything asked of you
  on the instruction page.

22
Some succeed because they are destined to.But
most succeed because they are determined to.

• (anon)