How Do I Get My Child to Transition from Revision Cards to Practice Papers?

Asked by Anonymous on our Parent Webinar series.

Moving from revision cards to practice exams can be a tough transition for students. In our Crash Course on Exam Preparation, we explore the common mistakes students make, particularly staying too long on revision and memorising notes instead of practicing exam questions.

Why should students switch from revision cards to practice papers?

False Confidence with Revision Cards: Memorising revision cards can be comforting, but it doesn't test a student's ability to apply knowledge under timed conditions. Practice exams push students to think critically and explain their knowledge in the context of exam questions.

However, revision cards are also pretty quick and easy to use. In contrast, practice papers are hard. Practice exams simulate the actual exam conditions, making them time-consuming and mentally challenging. Students must stay focused and write under pressure, which can be physically demanding. As a result, the easiest way to get started is to make practice exams as easy as possible by following the steps below:

How to Help Students Transition to Practice Papers

1. Set Clear Goals: To avoid procrastination, students should set a goal for how many practice exams they want to complete before the exam. Aim for at least 3 practice exams during the year and 5 before final exams. The clearer the goal, the more likely they are to begin earlier.

2. Low-Stakes Practice: Start with untimed practice exams. Allow students to use their notes and textbooks, and encourage them to look up answers when they get stuck. This reduces the stress and helps them build confidence before transitioning to timed, closed-book exams.

3. Start Early: Begin revising as early as possible and incorporate short sections of practice exams. These smaller, less intimidating chunks will make the transition to full-length practice exams easier.

   
   

By following these strategies, students can gradually ease into practice exams and build the necessary skills to perform well in the real thing.

For more advice on when your child should start using practice papers, take a look at this article.