Deputy Principal, Teaching and Learning
The Art of Sitting an Exam
Did you know that at students have been sitting examinations at The Hamilton and Alexandra College for 150 years? Examinations and tests are part of the teaching and learning culture here at The College. They provide important data, a snapshot of student learning at a particular point in time. But as we prepare our students in Senior School for the Mid-Year Examinations in Week 7 of Term 2 it is important to remember that we are doing more than helping them acquire knowledge and skills in a single subject area. There is an art to sitting an exam.
You may remember your own high school examinations. Some will reflect on these events fondly because you experienced success. Others will recall the fear and anxiety about exams because so much seemed to be caught up in the performance and the result. This is still something our VCE students experience. But I would like to invite you to reimagine the way you and your child approach the upcoming examinations and remember that we are learning how to sit an exam; and yes, this takes skill.
Students learn the importance of being on time. Punctuality is of paramount importance. You must be at the exam venue five minutes before you are allowed into the exam room. This allows you to compose yourself and mentally prepare for the examination to start.
Students need to be organised and have the correct and approved materials with the for the exam. Students should read the examination guidelines and know what is not allowed in the exam room: mobile phones, smart watches. The VCAA have strict guidelines and we are teaching our younger students to meet these requirements at our own College exams.
Students need to manage their energy levels on the day of the exam. Good sleep in the days leading up to the exam is so important. Good food, a high protein breakfast, will help sustain energy though a two-hour exam. It is important to be hydrated but not drink too much that you cannot manage the exam period without using the bathroom.
Students need to manage their time. Students should focus on their own work and examination paper. It is not uncommon for students to look around the room or out the window during a class. An examination demands all your attention. Students practice managing their time in the exam, focusing on their own work, the pace at which they complete each question and how much time to proofread at the end. Encourage your child to have a watch with them and discuss how they will manage the exam time.
Students need to use the reading time effectively. Reading time is part of the exam. Students should be encouraged to read and review the paper carefully and make a mental note of how they will tackle the paper - which section they will complete first, what is being asked. Most importantly, consider what the key words are in each question so that you know exactly what is being asked of you. The following list of action words in questions (see attached) might be something to discuss with your son or daughter.
Students must write as clearly as possible in an exam. Students are instructed to use a blue or black pen. Some students struggle to write neatly, and we know that it can be difficult for some students to write quickly. This exam period is an opportunity practice and learn how to get better at writing the required number of words under time pressure.
We are here to help and support your child in the Mid-Year Examinations. Do not hesitate to contact us if we can help you to encourage your child as they prepare for and sit the exams.
Susan Bradbeer
Deputy Principal Teaching and Learning