With exams around the corner, you’ve probably already
started revising, but by now your revision should start picking up. If you
struggle with motivation, something that could really help you is creating a
revision timetable. Set our certain hours of the day to revise different
subjects; remembering to refer to your exam timetable so that you prioritise
the exams you will sit first. In preparation for your English exams, we’ve
created a list of tasks and exercises you could complete to thoroughly prepare
you.
1.
Have a go at past papers- head to the
Edexcel website (http://qualifications.pearson.com/en/qualifications/edexcel-international-gcses-and-edexcel-certificates/international-gcse-english-language-a-2011.coursematerials.html#filterQuery=category:Pearson-UK:Category%2FExam-materials),
and you’ll find past papers that you can browse and attempt on your own. Some
of these are specifically locked for teachers, but many can be accessed by
anyone. Attempt whole papers, or just
the questions you struggle with. You’ll then be able to look at the mark scheme
and so how well you did.
2.
If you’ve exhausted the past papers, try creating
your own writing questions. Remember that you could be tested on writing
to: inform, explain or describe in Paper One, and explore, imagine, entertain,
argue, persuade or advise in Paper 2. Ask your friends or family for a topic
you could argue an opinion about, or a situation you could advise on.
3.
Make a list of different literary techniques
you could use- not only will it improve your exam if you are able to
identify techniques such as metaphors and personification, but you’ll also need
to apply them in your written exam. Write a list of effective examples of
different literary techniques. Remember that examiners are looking for students
who stand out from the crowd for those top grades, so try to think of examples
a little bit outside the box.
4.
Look on YouTube- you’d be surprised how
many students and teachers add revision material to YouTube. Whether you’re
looking to revise an individual poem or looking for tips on how to write a
strong argument, this is a great place to start.
5.
Re-read the texts- if you start to become
tired practising exam questions and making notes, and would like something a
bit more relaxing to do, try simply re-reading chapters of your key texts. Have
a pen and notebook handy so that you can jot down any quotations or ideas that
spring to mind. Reading things like newspapers and magazines can also help
prepare you for the creative writing part of your exam.
6.
Head to BBC Bitesize- from specific
revision tips to general advice about writing styles and genres, BBC Bitesize
has lots of interactive resources including videos, quizzes and self-mark
questions.
7.
Redecorate your room- So I’m not
suggesting that you should repaint the walls with quotations from Shakespeare,
but you’ll find it easier to take information in if you see it everyday. Write
key quotations, effective vocabulary or even definitions of key terms around
your bedroom, or even around the house. Simply walking past these sheets of
paper everyday will help you absorb the information.
8.
Ask people to test you- create thematic
flashcards, and then ask a sibling, parent or friend to test you to see what
you’ve learned. You’ll also find lots of quizzes on the internet if you’d
rather just test yourself.
Remember, it’s important to balance out revision and your
free time. Spending hours and hours shut in your room revising non-stop isn’t
healthy. Timetable yourself free time so that you can have dinner with your
parents, see you friends or simply watch television. Do your best and I’m sure
all your hard work will pay off!
This blog post was written by Lucy Taylor (IGCSE English tutor at Blackhen Education). For more information about our IGCSE English course, please contact us at: sue@blackheneducation.com or via our website: www.blackheneducation.com
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