Revision Advice
For Pupils and Parents
YEAR 11 REVISION OVERVIEW
As GCSE's approach we are striving to ensure that all our pupils are given the additional support required to achieve the best possible results in August.
Although there are only a few weeks left, pupils can still make a significant difference to their performance if they prepare fully now. We hope the revision evening and this booklet will provide straightforward guidance and advice for both pupils and parents on how to prepare effectively and make the best use of the time that is left.
A considerable amount of additional support is offered to Year 11 pupils to help them prepare for the examination period. For example:-
Revision assemblies.
Weekly study skills workshops in tutorial to accompany the assemblies. Revision classes: details are given in this booklet.
Intervention and additional support: Tuesday 3.30 in T10.
Adjustments to the school timetable to prioritise revision in relation to the examination timetable.
A key factor in pupils achieving success is full attendance at school. It is absolutely vital that pupils come to school and make use of the revision being completed in class by staff. We hope that pupils and parents will support us in this.
KEY DATES
ONLY PART OF THE STORY!
Education is about so much more than qualifications and exam results, as important as they are. Education is about the growth that you make as an individual. At St Michael’s we invest so much time in helping you to grow as young people, because we believe that it is your character that will provide the support system for life. That can’t be measured in exam results alone, it’s about the totality of your achievements, the way you excel not just academically but also in sport, the arts, the care and compassion you have for others, they are the visible fruit of this growth. We have talked to you throughout your five years about growing in body, mind and spirit, about wanting you to flourish and have the joy and hope of life in all its fullness. It has been an absolute pleasure to see you grow and develop into the bright shining stars that are you are today.
Growing in Body, Mind and Spirit
Well done year 11, for your continued determination to succeed. Have confidence that your parents, carers, tutors and teachers will guide you through the next few months and that your future is very bright!
HOW TO PREPARE
Although there are only a few months left you can still make a significant difference to your performance. Utilising effective learning strategies and taking on board the advice, support and information from your teachers will give you the foundations to achieve the highest grade you can.
It is important to realise that making poor behaviour choices during lessons will not only affect your own learning but the learning of others. Remaining focused, motivated, resilient and fully concentrated in every lesson will make a significant difference to the learning taking place.
We hope the following tips in this booklet will provide straightforward guidance and advice on how to prepare effectively and make the best use of the time that is left.
Tips on planning your time
You all have the same amount of time left before your GCSEs / assessments. Time is a bit like money; we can invest it as we choose. You can either come out with results that do not reflect your best work, or you can come out with a good set of results having worked hard and focused on your classwork and revision.
Plan out your time
Weekly planning will help you organise your classwork, non exam assessment work and revision.
Listen Carefully
Listen carefully to the advice in class of your teachers. What do you need to revise? Are you thinking hard during the questions in class?
Build some relaxation into your planning
A favourite TV programme, or a chat with a friend! This has been a challenging year and giving yourself a reward for hard work is a good motivator!
WHAT IS THE KEY TO SUCCESS?
One of the greatest scientists who ever lived, Thomas Edison said:
What he meant was that success and achievement is far more dependent on hard work than on ability.
Resilience is an attitude of mind that enables us to bounce back and fulfil our aspirations and dreams. Your resilience has certainly been a key determinant of your attitude to remote learning and your self-motivation for learning independently during this past two years. It will continue to play a part in the coming weeks and ultimately be a deciding factor in how you face future challenges.
Keep motivated!
It is so easy to believe there is no longer time to make a difference. But stop and think:
What is your vision or purpose? What do you aspire to do after school? Keep visualising what it is you are hoping to achieve.
Surround yourself by the right people, those who will support you and help you to stay on track
Planning is about what you are willing to do to achieve your goals. You need to have an action plan of how you are going to achieve what you want to.
A positive attitude and a growth mindset can have a massive impact on your achievements. We need to let negative thoughts go and focus on the positive Not “I can’t do it”, but, “I can’t do it yet”
Physical Action - At St Michael’s we often refer to the development of body, mind and spirit. It is really important to look after our physical bodies if we are to be resilient in times of pressure. We need to be well-rested having 810 hours of sleep (not junk sleep) per night; hydrated, drinking at least 2 litres of water per day and well nourished, eating regularly and healthily.
REVISION AND EXTRA SUPPORT
During the crucial weeks leading up to the GCSE examinations, staff offer Year 11 pupils support with revision at lunchtimes and after school. Details for each subject are provided on the following subject pages .
Revision also takes place during lesson time when the teaching of the specification has finished.
Art & Design
Component 2 - Externally set assignment
10 hour exam ( 2 days, 5 hours per day)
What should I revise/prepare?
To prepare for the 10 hour exam-
Complete a sketchbook of preparatory material.
1.Exploring a chosen theme set by the exam board.
2.Exploring the work of 3 artists, including interpretations.
3. Test a rage of techniques and materials influenced by the chosen artists and theme.
4. Create a series of ideas for a final piece.
5. Prepare resources and materials ready for the 10 hour exam
Tuesday 24th March Thursday 26th March
How can I revise/prepare?
Complete a sketchbook of work. Attend intervention sessions Spend at least one hour a week at hour working and preparing for the exam in your sketchbook.
Need help?
Tuesday intervention session 3.254 30pm
Speak to your class teacher- Mrs Freer or Mrs McDermott
The final deadline for ALL coursework (NEA Unit One) is Tuesday 5th May. Pupils must submit two projects (Mark Making/Kandinsky and their Mock Exam).They should have a sketchbook and final piece for each project. Pupils will be using lesson and home learning time to complete this coursework. All work will then be marked by subject staff and standardised. Marks will be sent off to AQA and moderated by AQA.
The Exhibition Open Evening, for parents and friends to view the display of GCSE Art and Art Textiles work, will be on Thursday 25th June.
REVISION AND EXTRA SUPPORT
Art Textiles
What exams/NEA will I do?
Component 1 - Portfolio - 60% -
Component 2 - Externally set assignment
10 hour exam ( 2 days, 5 hours per day) 40% Monday 23rd March to Thursday 26th March
What should I revise/prepare?
To prepare for the 10 hour exam project
Follow the week by week calendar and use the booklet ' How to structure your GCSE Exam Project' Complete all the preparatory tasks and organise materials and equipment before the exam
Make sure you have everything you need for the exam and make sure you have a clear plan of what you are going to do and have practised all the techniques.
Any other key information
How can I revise/prepare?
Complete all your preparartory tasks in your sketchbook, in detail. Attend afterschool sessions. Spend time at home working and preparing for the exam in your sketchbook.
Need help?
Speak to Mrs Burrow Attend afterschool textiles is 3.304 30pm either on a Tuesday or a Thursday.
After you have completed Component 2, the Exam project. You need to complete any unfinished work for Component 1. That is sketchbook work and final pieces for the Little Black Dress Project and the Mock Exam Project. The final deadline for ALL coursework (NEA Unit One) is Tuesday 5th May.
All work will then be marked by subject staff and standardised. Marks will be sent off to AQA and moderated by AQA.
The Exhibition Open Evening, for parents and friends to view the display of GCSE Art and Art Textiles work, will be on Thursday 25th June.
REVISION AND EXTRA SUPPORT
1. Seneca
2. Quizlet
3. GCSE Pod
4. Past Paper Questions
5. Revision Guides
6 BBC Bitesize
7. One Note (Resources)
Arrange
REVISION AND EXTRA SUPPORT
Computer Science
Paper 2 - Computing Thinking, Algorithms and Proramming
What’s assessed?
Paper 1:
1.1 Systems architecture
1 2 Memory and storage
1.3 Computer networks, connections and protocols
1.4 Network security
1 5 Systems software
1.6 Ethical, legal, cultural and environmental impacts of digital technology
How can I revise/prepare?
Revisit lesson materials on One
Note
Key terms booklet has been distributed in class Seneca Quizlet
CSNewbs
Need help?
Past paper questions will be distributed in class speak to your Computer Science teacher to arrange a time
Paper 2:
2 1 Algorithms
2.2 Programming fundamentals
2 3 Producing robust programs
2.4 Boolean logic
2 5 Programming languages and Integrated Development Environments
Any other key information
50% of the qualification is programming, and knowledge surrounding programming - using Python Pupils will revisit all aspects of the GCSE course in class Revision booklets are all on One Note, and given to students. Revision on Tuesday lunchtime Access to exemplar exam materials availiable within lessons and One
Note All pupils work and revision notes are on One Note which can be accessed via school and home
REVISION AND EXTRA SUPPORT
Dance
Component 1 - NEA assessment 2 x Performance Piece and 1 x Choreography
What should I revise/prepare?
Performance skills - physical, technical, expressive, mental and safe working practises Which skill belongs to which list and all the definitions.
Use the link for the subject specific vocabulary
https://www aqa org uk/resources/dan ce/gcse/dance/teach/subject-specificvocabulary
Choreography skills and definitions. All content (stimulus, intention, choreographic approach, costume, lighting, set/staging/props, aural setting, movement, dance for camera) in relation to the 6 Anthology works.
Any other key information
Learn the lists of skills- You need them to access over 50% of the written paper
performance exam5 March Periods 2-6 th
How can I revise/prepare?
Flash cards / mind maps or lists of the skills - use the mnemonics that we have been using in lessons FAB MISS PECC etc
Use the Section A and B booklets for practise questions
Practise questions on the AQA website. Revision sessions within school
Watch the dance works and interview videos- you need to be able to visualise the dance pieces.
Use your booklet about each of the dance works to make flash cards or mind maps.
Use the revision booklet that we have given you- there are lots of examples, knowledge organisers and practise questions in there.
Use the 'skills' power point that we have shared with you via email
Need help?
Speak to a member of the dance staff at any lunchtime or afterschool.
REVISION AND EXTRA SUPPORT
Design Technology
What should I revise/prepare?
Section A
New and emerging technologies
Energy, Environment and sustainability
Movement and mechanical devices
Systems
Section B
Timbers and Polymers - from raw to stock
Ecological and social factors
Manufacturing processes
Scales of production
Surface treatments and finishing techniques
Section C
Product Analysis
How can I revise/prepare?
BBC Bitesize
TechnologyStudent.com
GCSEpod
Revision Guides & Flashcards
Revision techniques
Seneca
eRevision (ZigZag)
Teams
Drawing techniques - isometric, 1 and 2 point perspective, 3rd Angle Orthographic projection
The work of others inc designers and design companies
Design strategies
Prototyping
Any other key information
Tolerances Need help?
Main focus until end of March will be NEA, after which revision will become the main focus
Speak to Mr Gladders or Mrs Ferson
Revision sessions after school and Lunchtimes in T7
REVISION AND EXTRA SUPPORT
Food Preparation and Nutrition
What should I revise/prepare?
1. Food commodities
2. Principles of nutrition
3. Diet and good health
4. The science of food
5. Where food comes from
6. Cooking and food preparation
Need help?
Revision for the exam will be completed in class.
Home learning for the exam will be structured revision from March.
Revision support Tuesday after school from March.
How can I revise/prepare?
1. Seneca
2. Moodle - revision questions
3. Eduqas digital text book
4. Past exam papers
5. CGP GCSE Food Preparation and Nutrition for WJEC Eduqas (Grade 9 -1) Revision Guide, Exam Practice Work Book and Revision Cards
Any other key information
The written paper will have two sections. Section A: questions based on specific stimulus/theme. 15 marks Section B: a range of question types for example data response questions, structured questions, graduated lead in questions and free response questions. 85 marks. .
REVISION AND EXTRA SUPPORT
English Literature
will I do?
1 - Shakespeare and poetry
Paper 2 - Post 1914 prose/drama, 19th century prose, unseen poetry
What should I revise/prepare?
The plot of each set text; Quotations from all of the set texts for each significant character and theme; Context for A Christmas Carol and how this connects to the novella; Context for each poem in the Poetry Anthology; How to thematically compare poems; How to answer extract questions; How to structure an essay; How to answer unseen poetry questions; Literary techniques and subject terms; Each writer’s purpose and intention when writing the text.
How can I revise/prepare?
Need help?
Speak to your class teacher, Mr Roome or Mrs Magdi. Attend revision after school on Thursdays.
Re-read the set texts; Complete timed, practice papers; Memorise quotations; Watch GCSEPods about the characters and themes; Write practice responses; Look back at marked work and purple pen/improve pieces; Look back at annotations, mind-maps, class notes and booklets for each set text; Produce essay plans; Produce poetry comparison plans; Practice timed unseen poetry responses; Watch adaptations, films or performances of the set texts.
Any other key information
Knowing quotations is essential and cannot be crammed into your brain the night before the exam. Little and often will help you retain more quotations.
REVISION AND EXTRA SUPPORT
English Language
will I do?
Paper 1 - Explorations in creative reading and writing
Paper 2 - Writer’s viewpoints and perspectives
What should I revise/prepare?
Subject terminology (language and structure); The demands of each questions; How to compare texts; How to write articles, guides, reports, formal and informal letters, reviews and speeches; Punctuation rules; Word classes; Persuasive techniques; How and when to paragraph correctly; Sophisticated and extensive vocabulary.
How can I revise/prepare?
Complete timed, practice papers;
Need help?
Speak to your class teacher, Mr Roome or Mrs Magdi. Attend revision after school on Thursdays.
Any other key information
Timing is key with these examinations. Push yourself during timed practice to really prepare yourself for the pressurised conditions of the exams.
Read extracts from 20th/21st century fiction e g go to a book shop/read online Open the book at a random page. Read that page and think about how the writer portrays characters, settings, drama etc within that section
Know the subject terminology (word classes, figurative language, phonological language). You have a glossary at the start of your Paper 2 booklet SPAG- Use the following sites for revision of SPAG areas.
- https://www bbc co uk/bitesize/topics/z7vdy9q
- https://www.cgpbooks.co.uk/resources/cgp-s-free-online-10-minute-tests/free-gcsespag-online-10-minute-tests
Memorise your narrative and practice writing it up in timed conditions; Complete SPAG exercises; Watch GCSEPods about the language papers; Write practice transactional writing pieces under timed conditions; Use your English book to revise how to approach each question; Look back at marked work and purple pen/improve pieces.
REVISION AND EXTRA SUPPORT
French
What should I revise/prepare?
Theme 1, 2 and 3. For each theme learn/practise the vocabulary for each unit and practise speaking test questions.
How can I revise/prepare?
Revise vocabulary regularly using Quizlet and their vocabulary booklet. Work through the workbooks if they purchased one. Attend individual practice sessions with class teacher before the speaking test. BBC bitesize is good for grammar and tenses practice. The past papers on Revisionworld are for the old specification but can still be useful especially for practising listening.
Ensure you know the layout and expectations of each of the different papers. Practise writing set structures that could apply at any topic.
Any other key information
Be aware The past papers online are for the old specification.
Need help?
Lunchtime and after school help available by arrangement with class teacher
REVISION AND EXTRA SUPPORT
German
What should I revise/prepare?
Theme 1, 2 and 3. For each theme learn/practise the vocabulary for each unit and practise speaking test questions.
How can I revise/prepare?
Revise vocabulary regularly using Quizlet and their vocabulary booklet. Work through the workbooks if they purchased one. Attend individual practice sessions with class teacher before the speaking test. BBC bitesize is good for grammar and tenses practice. The past papers on Revisionworld are for the old specification but can still be useful especially for practising listening.
Ensure you know the layout and expectations of each of the different papers. Practise writing set structures that could apply at any topic.
Any other key information
Be aware The past papers online are for the old specification.
Need help?
Lunchtime and after school help available by arrangement with class teacher
REVISION AND EXTRA SUPPORT
Geography
What should I revise/prepare?
Paper 1
Changing Landscapes of the UK (Geology, Coasts, River)
Weather Hazards and Climate Change
Ecosystems, Biodiversity & Management
Paper 2
Changing Cities (including Birmingham & Mexico City) Global Development (including India)
Resource Management & Energy
How can I revise/prepare?
Complete past paper questions under timed conditions.
Keep up to date with all home learning set, particularly 8 mark exam questions. Use your revision guide and workbook. along with online resources such as Seneca and GCSEPod.
Attend the drop in sessions if you need help.
Paper 3
Geographical Skills, Fieldwork & UK Challenges.
Need help?
Please see your class teacher or Mrs Clare. Alternativey, you can drop into H4 on Tuesday lunchtimes.
Remember to learn your case studies throughly and include '3 magic facts' when writing about your case studies. Don't forget to practice the skills based questions e.g. map skills, graph work, maths based questions (10% of your grade comes from maths based questions).
REVISION AND EXTRA SUPPORT
History
Paper 1 - Medicine Through Time c1250 - Present
Paper 2 - Henry VIII & His Ministers
1509-1540, Super Power Relations and the Cold War 1941-1991
Paper 3 - Weimar & Nazi Germany 1918-1939
What should I revise/prepare?
Paper 1
Medieval Medicine
1250-1500
Renaissance Medicine
1500-1700
Industrial Medicine 1700-1900
Modern Medicine 1900present
How can I revise/prepare?
All lesson resources including PowerPoints and links to useful websites and other resources available on Synergy and Moodle for pupils to access at home. Pupils have log ins to Educake and can complete their own personalised revision activities in addition to tasks set by the class teacher.
Paper 2
Henry VIII & Wolsey, 1509–1529
Henry VIII & Cromwell, 1529–1540
The English Reformation & its Impact, 1529–1540
The Origins of the Cold War, 1941-1949
The Development of the Cold War, 1947-1955
The Cold War Intensifies, 1952-1958
Berlin, 1958-1963
Cuba, 1959-1963
Czechoslovakia, 19681969
Détente, 1969-1979
The End of Détente & the Second Cold War
The End of the Cold War1985-1991
Paper 3
End of WW1 and the establishing of the Weimar Republic
Threats to the Weimar Government in the 1920s
Stresemann & the Weimar Golden Age
Early Nazi Party and the Munich Putsch
How Hitler became Chancellor in 1933
How Hitler became Fuhrer in 1934
Life in Nazi Germany
Need help?
Revision lessons will run in H6/H8 after school on Fridays 2.40-3.30
Individual revision help at lunch available by request.
REVISION AND EXTRA SUPPORT
Information Technology
What should I revise/prepare?
Planning & Communication
Modern Technologies
Cyber Security
Wider Implications of Digital Systems
How can I revise/prepare?
Revisit lesson resources and memorise key terminology
Make use of revision materials provided to you in class
Complete past exams questions - your teacher will mark these
Need help?
Speak to your teacher to arrange a time
REVISION AND EXTRA SUPPORT
Maths
What should I revise/prepare?
Every outcome that has been covered since Year 7 could be assessed on each paper.
The main topics are number, algebra, geometry, ratio and proportion and statistics which includes probability
Need help?
There is always a maths teacher available at lunchtimes and after school on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday to help with revision. If a pupil can’t attend their own teacher’s revision night on Wednesday or Thursday, they can attend a different teacher’s revision class on Tuesday.
How can I revise/prepare?
The best way to revise Maths is to do practise questions on each topic, making sure the questions are marked so that you know what areas you need more help with. Practice papers and a list of all revision topics are available on Moodle. More practice papers will be completed in class and as home learning. Pupils can access Mathswatch or Sparx which contain video tutorials and practice questions for each topic they need to revisit. Pupils will be given a Mathswatch timetable which covers everything they need to watch over a 6 week period. Pupils who watched all the videos last year and followed the timetable closely said it helped them greatly. There are also other videos, presentations, games and mini assessments available to help on Moodle.
Music REVISION AND EXTRA SUPPORT
What should I revise/prepare?
AOS 1 - Classical Music from 1650 - 1910.
AOS 2 - Popular Music
AOS 3 - Traditional Music
AOS 4 - Classical Music from 1910 - present day
SET WORKS - Beethoven Symphony No 1
SET WORKS - 3 Songs by Queen ( Bohemian Rhapsody, Seven Seas of Rhye, Love of My Life)
Any other key information
Curriculum time will focus on completion of all composition coursework up to the Easter deadline and on the Written paper after the deadline date.
How can I revise/prepare?
A2 is available every day at a lunchtime to work on compositions.
Mr White is available on a Tuesday, Wednesday Thursday after school until 4:30pm
All pupils should have AQA and Zig Zag revision booklets plus PowerPoints from the lessons.
Need help?
Mr White is available at the start of each lunchtime and after school on a Tuesday Wednesday and Thursday in A2
REVISION AND EXTRA SUPPORT
What should I revise/prepare?
Component 1
Applied anatomy and physiology Movement Analysis
Physical training (pages 1-118 in textbook- each pupil has a copy)
Component 2
Health, fitness and well-being
Sports psychology
Socio-cultural influences (pages 124176)
Any other key information
Moderation day for GCSE PE in March 25th
How can I revise/prepare?
Moodle has many question to use on each topic. After Easter 5 a day questions will be put onto Synergy for each class to attempt. GCSEpod is also very good. Each pupil has their own copy of the textbook given to them.
Need help?
Drop in revision sessions will be available after Easter each week either at a dinner or after school, pupils are encouraged to bring topics they struggle with (fixture dependent). Pupils can speak to any member of staff at any time with any struggles relating to any aspect of the course.
REVISION AND EXTRA SUPPORT
RE
What should I revise/prepare?
JUDAISM
Judaism Synagogue and Worship
Judaism Beliefs and Teachings
Judaism Family life and Festivals
CHRISTIANITY
Christianity Beliefs
Christianity Worship and Festivals
Christianity Role of the Church
THEMES
Crime and Punishment
Religion and War
Religion and Life
Human Rights and Social Justice
Any other key information
Pupils should make sure they select AQA
specification A – Christianity and Judaism (NOT Catholic Christianity)
Please remember that the questions in each section changed very slightly last year and will be 1 mark, 1 mark, 4 marks, 6 marks, 12 marks. AQA have not updated all resources yet some still say 2 and 5 marks).
How can I revise/prepare?
The RS teacher website Kerboodle
GCSE pod which can be accessed online
Using your booklets, flashcards, post-it notes around the house, quote posters will be really helpful.
Practice writing quickly!
The best thing to do is practice papers (on the RS teacher and on Moodle) your teacher will mark these.
Need help?
Revision classes after school on Tuesday, Thursday or Friday
REVISION AND EXTRA SUPPORT
Combined Science
How can I revise/prepare?
Use of past paper questions to enable you to apply the knowledge you have learned. Self testing using flashcards or online platforms such as Quizlet Pupils should make sure they revise the required practical’s they have completed in class and ensure they understand the key practical terminology They can log on to www.focuselearning.co.uk to allow them to practice the required practical’s
Username: student@saintmichaels.32337
Password: o30up8vpq
Use of the revision pack that has been provided for you
Need help?
Revision lessons will run after school on Wednesdays
REVISION AND EXTRA SUPPORT
Triple Science
How can I revise/prepare?
Use of past paper questions to enable you to apply the knowledge you have learned. Self testing using flashcards or online platforms such as Quizlet Pupils should make sure they revise the required practical’s they have completed in class and ensure they understand the key practical terminology They can log on to www.focuselearning.co.uk to allow them to practice the required practical’s
Username: student@saintmichaels.32337
Password: o30up8vpq
Use of the revision pack that has been provided for you
Need help?
Revision lessons will run after school on Wednesdays
REVISION AND EXTRA SUPPORT
Performing Arts
What should I revise/prepare?
The practical exam will need to be polished and practised for the necessary performance time. For the written exam you will need to write the essay that explains how you created your devised performance, making sure you cover all the bullet points on the exam paper. This essay needs to be converted into four pages of notes that contain no full sentences.
The notes can then be taken into the three hour written exam.
Need help?
There is support available for practical and written work after school every evening from Tuesday onwards
How can I revise/prepare?
Make sure you read over your essay and learn what you have to write before you go into the exam, learn the essay in stages over the two week period.
Any other key information
Pupils resitting component one or two also have to have completed their work by the same deadline of the 1st of May
Component 3 Exams Performance - 13th March P5-P7 and 17th April P5-P7
Component 3 Written Exam - 20th April P2, 21st April P6, 24th April P5 & P6, 27th April P2, 28th April P6 and 1st May P5 & P6
HOW TO REVISE
It is not enough to just read through your notes and books and hope something goes in. There are far more effective ways to revise and some of these strategies will be covered in the following pages.
What and When!
Planning what and when to revise is the first step to successful revision. Ask your teachers if you are unsure of what to revise. Think about what you are unsure of or where there may be gaps in your knowledge. Then you need to plan out when to revise. Follow the steps below when planning out your revision .
Making a revision timetable
Planning what and when you are going to revise reduces the number of decisions you have to make everyday and reduce the risk of you not revising or your revision being ineffective as you have left it until the last minutes.
To help you with this, making a revision timetable is a great place to start. There are plenty of templates on the internet but just click the QR code to the left for an editable version and follow the tips below on how to make your revision timetable.
Write in everything you have already planned (sporting fixtures, clubs, birthdays).
Write in upcoming deadlines and exams.
Not every space needs to be full. Leave yourself time to relax too. Aim for 2 hours of revision per day (including weekends).
Give time to all subjects but remember Maths, English and Science have more subject content. Focus on areas you have identified as potential gaps in your learning.
Write in the subjects you are going to cover and when but be specific about what you want to revise. For example don't just put Biology, write a specific topic such as cell biology.
EXAMPLE REVISION TIMETABLE
SPACING
Spacing is regularly revisiting material so that you are doing little and often instead of all at once. Doing a little amount regularly is once. We do this so that we don' Research suggests there is an 'optimal gap' between revision sessions so you can retain the information. If the test is in a month, you should review the information about once a week. If the test is in a week, create time once a day. Think about this when planning out your revision timetable.
Optimum Spacing
Let's say you have a test in one week and you have 5 hours to prepare for it broken down into 30 minute chunks Very often that process looks like this.
A better way to revise for your test is by breaking your revision up into 2530 minute chunks. By spacing out your revision, you will consolidate what you have learned and retain the material much more effectively
Want to learn more about spacing? Scan the QR codes for more detailed information
INTERLEAVING
Summary: Interleaving
As we have seen with spaced practice, leaving gaps between studying is very effective but what if you are studying multiple topics within a subject? Interleaving is the name given to revising more than one topic in each session. Research has shown this enables you to form better links between them.
Interleaving is for topics within one subject - not subjects themselves
For example, instead of organising your revision week like this:
A more effective way of organising your revision would be like this:
Applying interleaving to your revision
1.Break units down into small chunks and split these over a few days rather than revising one whole topic at once
2.Decide on the key topics you need to learn for each subject
3.Switch between topics during each session
4.When reviewing, make sure you do it in a different order that you learned them, or previously revised them.
5 Try to make links between ideas and review your revision notes.
Want to learn more about interleaving? Scan the QR
HOW TO REVISE
In order to revise effectively, you have to think hard. Thinking hard is tiring. Therefore, when you revise, you should choose a time when you will find it easiest to focus. This should be a time when you are well rested and when you are used to working.
Managing Your Time - The Pomodoro Technique
Don't revise late at night when you are tired
Don't try to force yourself to work for long periods of time without a break
EFFECTIVE REVISION
Research has shown that the most effective revision strategies make you think hard. Retrieval practice is a strategy which makes us think hard. Retrieval practice means trying to remember material you have learned opposed to re-reading it.
Two of the least effective ways of revising are reading over stuff and highlighting it, which are also two of the most common things pupils do when revising.
Reading over material and highlighting it can give a false sense of mastery and make you think you have learned it when in reality, you will often forget that material a week later
A far more effective technique is to put everything away and test yourself on what you remember from a particular unit or chapter. By regularly making yourself try to receive it from memory, you will build a far stronger memory in the long term.
STEP
Make a list of all the important information you need to know from a particular unit or chapter.
STEP
Close your books and create a quiz using flashcards or app.
STEP
Try to retrieve everything you remember.
STEP Go back and check all of your answers. Add anything you missed.
Some of the strategies you can use for steps 2 and 3 are outlined on the next few pages.
Want to learn more about retrieval practice? Scan the QR code for more information
FLASH CARDS
Flash cards are an effective way of learning the core knowledge from a particular topic (facts etc). Without this core knowledge it can be difficult to access or understand exam questions fully. use the tips below to make your flash cards.
Summary: How to use flash cards
Identify Knowledge
What are you creating your flash cards on?
Do you have a knowledge organiser?
Use your book to look at your teacher feedback and notes
Designing
One question per flashcard
Make them concise and clear.
Use a one word prompt so that you can recall as much as you can.
No extended answer questions
Using
Write your answers down then check Or say your answers out loud
Don't just copy and reread
Use the Leitner system (see below)
Feedback
How have you performed when you look back at your answers?
Is there anything you need to revisit in more detail?
Is your knowledge secure? If so, move on to applying knowledge in that area.
Avoid answering the questions in your head: research shows that when you read the question and answer in your head you are not testing your knowledge as effectively as you would be if you said it out loud.
Using flash cards and the Leitner System
1.Read the question on your flash card
2.Write down your answer
3.Check your answer and then place in the relevant pile/box (see below)
The Leitner System
1.Every card starts in box 1
2.if you get a card right move it to the next box
3.If you get a card wrong move or keep it in box one
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SELF QUIZZING & BRAIN DUMPS
Self quizzing is similar to using flash cards in that you are trying to retrieve information from your memory. The difference being is that the questions can be longer answer. Brain dumps are a way of quickly seeing what you can remember about a particular topic
Summary: Self Quizzing
Identify Knowledge
Identify the knowledge/content you wish to cover
Identify Knowledge
Identify the knowledge/content you wish to cover
Review and create
Spend around 5-10 minutes reviewing content (knowledge organiser/ class notes/text book)
Create 10 questions on the content (or answer questions given to you by your teacher or online)
Cover and answer
Cover up your knowledge and answer the questions from memory
Take your time and where possible answer in full sentences
Self mark and reflect
Go back to the content and self mark your answers using a different colour pen.
Revisit the areas where there are gaps in your knowledge Ak your teacher if you are still struggling./can't find the answer
Summary: Brain dumps
Write it down
Take a blank piece of paper/white board and write down everything you can remember about that topic (with no prompts)
Give yourself a time limit (E g 10 minutes)
Check Understanding
Compare your brain dump to your knowledge organiser or class notes and check your understanding
Add key information you missed in a different colour
Store and compare
Keep your brain dumps safe and revisit them
Next time you attempt the same topic try and complete the same amount of information in a shorter time or add more information
MIND MAPS & ELABORATION
Mind Mapping is a useful technique that supports learning, improves information recording and retrieval, shows how different facts and ideas are related, and enhances creative problem solving.
Summary: How to make a Mind Map
Have a blank sheet of paper (landscape).
Draw a picture in the centre to show the main topic. Branches should be drawn from the centre (thick to thin).
Each branch should be drawn in a different colour.
Use one word per branch and write on the branch (not at the end of it).
Add pictures, images and symbols in colour
Place it somewhere visible.
Summary: Elaboration
So now you have learnt a lot of material, what should you do with it? Two of the most effective things you can do is ask questions of what you have learned and then try and find connections between new ideas and concepts.
So for example, let's say you have learned a lot of material about World War II. Instead of asking when did this happen, ask yourself why did this happen? or how did this happen? This is a good one to do with friends of your parents/guardians. The more information you have about a topic, the richer the conversation will be.
Another example. Let's say you have learned some quotes from Macbeth such as the dagger scene: Is this a dagger which I see before me?
The handle toward my hand?
Once you have learned the quotes like these, you might then move to asking yourself the following questions: Why does Shakespeare use this imagery here? What does this reveal about Macbeth at this part of the play? How does this connect with what we know with Macbeth at other stages in the play?
By elaborating on what you have learned, you will create a far
PAST PAPER QUESTIONS
Your teachers will give you lots of past paper questions or exam papers. Try to complete them without notes in exam conditions, then check your answers and identify the gaps in your knowledge, so that you can target your revision. There will also be past papers on the internet. Make sure you choose the correct exam board for your subject.
Tips: Using Past Paper Questions
With some of the longer answer questions. Using the framework below can be useful. This method allows you to get used to planning your answers either in your head or on paper before you start writing.
REVISION APPS
GCSEPod has resources for over 27 subjects as well as wellbeing and study skills. The Pods are short videos with key knowledge, images and diagrams. After watching Pods, tasks such as mind maps and storyboards can be used to consolidate information. Check and challenge quizzes are also available. Pupils log on using their office 365 account.
Quizlet is a digital flash card app. It allows pupils you to create a set of flash card digitally. You can customise your set, adding your own key terms and definitions. Quizlet also allows you to share your flashcards with friends and access resources prepared by other teachers and pupils.
Flora is a productivity app that helps users stay focused by planting virtual trees. Pupils set a timer for tasks, and if they stay on task, their tree grows. It’s a fun way to boost productivity!
Adapt plans revision for all subjects, so you can focus on learning and feeling confident for their exams. Please notethis is a paid for app
A range of subject specific apps and websites are also available, such as MathsWatch and Sparx which you will already be familiar with. It could be useful to ask your teacher which apps they would recommend for their subject. You may also wish to consider apps for your wellbeing in exam period. For example, Kooth is an online mental health community which allows you to find ways to support your wellbeing, journal your feelings or seek professional support. 37
DEVELOPING REVISION HABITS
It is great to have targets on what you want to achieve (e.g. passing your GCSEs, or a Grade 8 in history) as they give you a goal and direction. However, it is your habits which allow you to best make progress.
As James Clear (Atomic Habits) says “Getting one percent better everyday counts for a lot in the long-run”. Think of the progress you can make if you start revising from today, what could you achieve by summer? Developing revision habits is hard, and it takes time for them to ’stick’, but if you stay with them, you will reach both your goals and new identity. So, start now and follow these 4 principles to built a habit!
Revise in one area, so you relate the area to ‘work’
Leave your revision materials out ready to start
Write a revision contract to schedule your revision Stack habits together, so go for a walk and listen to revision podcasts, or revise then tidy your room!
Revise with friends & attend revision classes together
Do something enjoyable as a reward once you complete ““Once I’ve revised for 30 mins, I’ll then play Xbox”
Write a revision contract with your family agreeing to revise specific days and ties, they can keep you on track
Start small - 10 minutes a night and build up over time
Reduce distractions when you revise, no music or phone
Ask your family to encourage you and get them involved in supporting your revision e.g. quizzing you.
Create a revision timetable, place on your wall & tick off
Start successfully by easy tests/quizzes but make sure you are challenged by increasing how hard you test yourself
Reframe your identity, think that “I’m a hard worker” not “I want a Grade 8”, the results will come with habits
Track revision progress & never miss revision twice.
MANAGING YOUR WELLBEING
It is normal to feel a bit worried about exams, especially if you're under pressure from school or family. Exam stress can cause you to feel anxious or depressed, and this might affect your sleeping or eating habits.
If you recognise any of these feelings, or are worried that exam pressure is taking over your life, you are not alone, and there are things you can do:
Let your trusted friends and family know if you are struggling
Exercise
Learn to relax
Ask for help. Think about all the practical support you need and be honest with yourself about it You are allowed to ask for help Talk through your concerns with your teacher/tutor who can let you know what support your school can offer you They will have spoken to lots of pupils before who are going through similar things.
Try finding a study group, or start your own
Working through problems with other pupils can be a nice way to keep your social life going and boost your morale
This information and more advice can be found at www.youngminds.org.uk and on Moodle
Take mini breaks throughout the day. Work on relaxation techniques such as taking slow deep breaths.
Physical activity provides relief from stress. 30 minutes of sport or a short walk will do the trick.
Get organised
Have a realistic daily schedule including revision, sleep, eating, relationships and recreation.
Sleep
Don't become over tired by forcing yourself to work late. Your brain needs time to sort out the information it has come across that day. try to sleep for 8 hours.
Eat healthy and drink water
Watch your eating habits. Make sure you eat sensible and have a balanced diet. Avoid too much caffeine. Drink lots of water.
Be Positive
Talk positively to yourself! Don't pay attention to that internal voice saying you can't do it; tell yourself you can do it and you will do it
THE EXAM DAY
Make sure you know what time the exam starts the next day.
Eat a good breakfast!
Don't discuss what you have revised or what you think will be on the exam with your friendsyou'll only get anxious!
Manage your time Divide your time up between the questions and do not spend too long on individual questions
The evening before the exam:
Check that you have all of your equipment that you need and pack it ready for the next morning.
Do not stay up revising too late. You cannot revise the whole course in one evening. Let your brain rest!
The day of the exam:
Make sure your drink plenty of water.
When the exam starts read the instructions, then read them again. Make sure you know how many questions you have to answer.
If you have time left over do not shut the paper and look around; go over your exam paper until your time is up.
Be punctual and get to school in plenty of time. It is not good to be rushing.
Think about each question before you start writing. Make sure you follow the tips your teachers have given you.
When the exam is over forget about it. It is pointless worrying about how you did. Concentrate on your next exam
Go to sleep early so that you will be fresh for your exam.
The normal start times for exams is 9am for morning exams and 1pm for afternoon exams.
Make quick notes about the topic/question before you begin your actual answer.
Give yourself a well deserved break after your exam before you start revising for the next one.
EXAM RULES SUMMARY
Please read carefully the full set of JCQ Exam regulations issued to you
Remember: possession of unauthorised material is breaking the rules, even if you do not intend to use it, and you will be subject to penalty and possible disqualification.
REVISION LESSON OVERVIEW
