GCSE's are due to start in May, leaving thousands of teens stressed about being the first to sit the new 9-1 Maths and English exams this summer.
The new GCSE's allows for students of all abilities to take the same exams, removing foundation level papers for English. Coursework also plays a smaller portion of the new GCSE courses, which means most of the marks are won or lost in the exams at the end of Year 11. The new grading system means 9 will be above an A*, and a 4 equivalent to a C grade.
Many students have fed back to me, stating that they 'think they're inconvenient and annoying because in the future we may have to keep explaining what a 9-1 grade is, also, for example, saying you got a grade 6 which is equivalent to a grade B doesn't sound as good, because its a lot further away from the top grade than the A*-F system.”
Another student has said that it is 'unfair that older years have gotten away with doing the easier GCSE's, having coursework to fall back on, open book exams etc.”
Although it's impossible to say whether the old system will ever come back, there are always petitions that you can sign if you are passionate about getting your voice heard, and possibly making a change.
In order to help those sitting their exams, either this year or next, I have devised a list of efficient revision tips and techniques.
1) Put your phone away!
It can be a huge distraction and won't help you to revise.
2) Create a revision timetable.
This can help you to stay organised and on track with what subjects you need to revise most, as you can create a timetable tailored to you and your needs.
3) Study with friends.
This may be distracting from some people, however, once in a while It can be refreshing to meet up with your friends in order to learn more and revise. They can help explain anything you don't understand, and you can have fun whilst doing it. Furthermore, teaching others is one of the best ways to revise and learn.
4) Practice!
One of the biggest recommendations past GCSE students suggest is to practice by doing as many past GCSE papers as you can. You are now able to get 9-1 papers for some subjects and they can help you to get familiar with the exam format, question style, and timings.
5) Regular breaks.
There is no point forcing yourself to study for hours on end as it will not result in any positive outcome. Taking regular breaks and exercising is proven in engaging your brain in studying and improve your exam performance in the long run.
6) Mix up your study methods.
There are more than just one way of revising. For example, you could watch videos or documentaries, listen to podcasts, as well as revise using different apps.
7) Mind maps.
The theory behind mind mapping explains that making associations by connecting ideas helps you to memorise information easier and quicker.
8) Start early.
This is important as by revising earlier it is a lot easier to just quickly go over things nearer the time if you already know and have learnt it. This is also why it's important to make sure you understand everything in lessons, as when revising you want to be going over something you already know, and not teaching yourself something from scratch.
9) Give your mind a break.
Mindfulness or even yoga can be a good way to de- stress. You can catch up on a tv show, go out with friends or read a book. Make sure to balance work and time for yourself.
