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Wellington College Belfast
Revision support bulletin
This is the second in the series of Revision Bulletins on revision and the aim is that you can further understand how to support your child in their revision for upcoming exams.
This bulletin will focus on Spaced Practice - that is, spacing out studying over time instead of cramming right before an exam.
What is Spaced Practice?
What is Spaced Practice?
Spaced practice is the opposite of cramming.
Cramming is when you study for a long intense period of time close to an exam. Many pupils do it and may say that it works for them but it is not beneficial in the long term.
When learning is spaced, you take the same amount of time to study but it is spread out across a much longer period of time (days and weeks).
E.g 5 hours spread across 2 weeks is better than 5 hours the day before an exam.
The science behind this shows that this method produces more long-lasting learning.
It is important to consider the method of revision during spaced practice sessions. As Kate Jones explained - pupils should not be rereading their notes during revision they should be using effective methods such as retrieval practice- using flash cards, self testing and using past paper questions.
Spaced practice may seem difficult as information can be forgotten from day to day, but this is a good thing! When you forget something it needs to be retrieved and through this process the connection to that information becomes stronger- so you are less likely to forget next time.
Learn Spark Study Timetable
Learn Spark Study Timetable
To download a blank or black and white copy click the link below
What can you do?
What can you do?
Watch the video above then discuss this with your child.
Print off or create a revision timetable for your child to use.
Make revision a habit so that it is manageable and avoids cramming, as this will hopefully reduce exam stress.
Discuss the progress your child is making in their revision.
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