This week’s blog has been written by Mr Duff, Head of Sixth Form at Bethany. With the exam season upon us, he writes about effective revision strategies that include self reflection and spaced repetition.

With examination season upon us, I felt it was apt to write a blog about effective revision strategies. Effective revision is essential for academic success. In this blog, I’ll explore various strategies that can help pupils optimise their revision process, making it more efficient and productive.

Active Learning Techniques
Active learning engages the mind more deeply than passive studying methods. Techniques such as summarising (be a scribbler! Make notes!), teaching others, and practicing retrieval can enhance understanding and memory retention. For example, pupils can try to explain concepts to peers/family members or create flashcards to quiz themselves on key information – I am a huge fan of Quizlet and Anki!

Spaced Repetition
Spaced repetition involves reviewing material at increasing intervals over time. This technique capitalises on the spacing effect, which suggests that information is better retained when revisited at intervals. Indeed, the aforementioned Anki and Quizlet employ spaced repetition algorithms to help users efficiently review and retain information.

Visual Aids and Mind Maps
Visual aids, such as diagrams, charts, and mind maps, can aid in organising and understanding complex information. Creating visual representations of concepts can help reinforce connections and improve recall. Pupils should experiment with different formats to find what works best for you, whether it’s traditional paper and pen or digital tools like xMind.

Practice with Past Papers
Past papers are invaluable resources for exam preparation. They provide insight into the format, structure, and types of questions that may appear on exams. Regularly practicing past papers under timed conditions can help familiarise pupils with exam conditions and improve their ability to apply knowledge effectively. I highly recommend that pupils build up to this – the cornerstone should be subject knowledge and pupils must not have the belief that if they do every exam paper written that that is enough. These are past paper questions and unlikely to appear again. With that said, past papers are an important element to practice technique but should not be the sole device.

Chunking and Interleaving
Chunking involves breaking down large amounts of information into smaller, manageable chunks. This makes it easier to process and retain complex material. Interleaving involves mixing up different topics or subjects during study sessions. This technique promotes deeper learning by forcing the brain to make connections between related concepts.

Utilise Technology Wisely
Technology offers a plethora of tools and resources to aid in revision. From digital flashcards and online tutorials to productivity apps and collaborative platforms, there’s no shortage of options available to our young people now compared to back in my day!!! However, it’s essential to use technology mindfully and avoid distractions. Set boundaries, establish designated study times with the beloved mobile phone locked in a drawer, and utilise tools that enhance focus and productivity.

Utilise Technology Wisely
Technology offers a plethora of tools and resources to aid in revision. From digital flashcards and online tutorials to productivity apps and collaborative platforms, there’s no shortage of options available to our young people now compared to back in my day!!! However, it’s essential to use technology mindfully and avoid distractions. Set boundaries, establish designated study times with the beloved mobile phone locked in a drawer, and utilise tools that enhance focus and productivity.

In closing, the summer examinations are upon us and pupils must work both smart and hard. I hope that the above blog has given some food for thought and would encourage pupils to try one idea/strategy from it. Effective revision is essential for success, and I would like to take this opportunity to wish all Bethany pupils good luck in their external examinations this summer.

Mr Duff

Head of Sixth Form