Preparing well for examinations
Term 4 is the season for final examinations. The HSC Exams start in Week 1, Year 10 have their examination period in Week 3 and Years 7, 8 and 9 have their exams in Week 4.
While Year 11 students have finished their examinations for the preliminary courses, they begin their HSC studies and will complete their first assessment tasks in Term 4. So, it is timely for some good reminders for preparing well for exams.
Here are my top tips for students:
- Listen to your teachers and complete class work and homework tasks promptly.
While it may be tempting to forgo the class tasks and concentrate on revision and study tasks, teachers set work in the lessons prior to exams that are targeted activity for revision. These tasks may seem to be a distraction and time taken away from study, but they are actually the appropriate tasks to complete to best prepare for the exam.
- Don’t simply memorise facts; apply them to exam-type questions.
Memorising facts and summarising notes will only be effective if they can be applied to the questions in the exam. The best way to review your knowledge is to apply this to questions and practise formulating responses that incorporate the information. This enhances not only your ability to recall the information but also your critical thinking skills.
- Get good rest, balance your time with exercise and eat well.
We all know that busy people get more things done. If you have a set amount of time for study and homework, then you will be more productive and efficient with your time. Plan your time well and if you find that you are not being productive, it may be time to go for a quick walk before starting again.