BMGS Newsletter

From the Acting Director of Studies

Up-Coming Exams

This is just a reminder that the Stage 5 (9/10) assessment block is coming up next week.

 

The schedule has been emailed to all students, and they can also find it on Schoolbox under the assessment and reporting tab.

 

Stage 5 Assessment Schedule Vers.4.pdf

 

If you are unsure how to prepare, here are some generic suggestions to get you started:

  1. Create a Study Schedule: Encourage students to plan a study timetable, breaking down topics into manageable sections and focusing on subjects they find most challenging first.
  2. Set Specific Goals: Each study session should have a clear goal (e.g., “understand Act I of The Club” or “practice five math problems on quadratic equations”).
  3. Use Past Papers: Practicing with past exam papers helps students get familiar with the format and types of questions. It also helps them manage time effectively.
  4. Active Note-Taking: Summarize key points in a notebook, and review these regularly. Diagrams, bullet points, and colour-coding can make notes more memorable.
  5. Teach What You’ve Learned: Encourage students to teach a concept to a peer or family member. If they can explain it clearly, they likely understand it well.
  6. Utilize Study Groups: Collaborating with classmates can clarify difficult concepts and provide a new perspective on challenging topics.
  7. Take Regular Breaks: Studying in blocks with breaks in between helps maintain focus and avoid burnout. The Pomodoro technique (25-minute study, 5-minute break) can be effective.
  8. Prioritize Health: Good sleep, balanced meals, and hydration all contribute to effective studying and recall. Remind students to take care of themselves physically as well.
  9. Use Memory Aids: Techniques like mnemonics, flashcards, and mind maps can help retain information and are especially useful for memorizing facts and lists.
  10. Stay Positive and Practice Self-Care: Keeping a positive mindset and managing stress through breathing exercises, mindfulness, or hobbies can prevent anxiety from affecting their performance.

These strategies can help students approach exams with confidence and a clear plan!

 

Dirk Weibye

Acting Director of Studies