GCE O Level Distinction Grade: Crack the Code of Exam Success
The GCE O Levels is an annual national exam in Singapore, with internationally recognised certificates suitable for tertiary education in Commonwealth countries and the United States of America. High scores open more educational opportunities globally. With the GCE O Level exams starting in less than a month, achieving a distinction grade is a common goal. In addition to consistent revision, this article offers tips to better prepare your child for success in the upcoming exams, starting with the Chemistry paper.
GCE O Level Tip #1 – Find a Studying Method That Works for You
Is having a fixed studying process mandatory? No, it is not obligatory, but it can significantly enhance your child’s revision process, making it more effective and efficient. Imagine them attempting a past-year exam paper without first familiarising themselves with the theoretical concepts. You would likely find your child frequently referring to their textbooks, which can decrease their productivity. Instead consider understanding the theories before tackling practical questions.
One widely used and effective approach is the 3-step method: Read, Write, and Do! Start by thoroughly reading your notes, jotting down essential concepts, and then practicing with questions. While it may seem simple, this method can work wonders and may be the key to achieving distinction in the GCE O Level exams.
Tip #2 – Draw Mind Maps
Mind Mapping is a fundamental skill taught to students in primary and secondary school, yet many fail to harness its potential. The primary aim of creating mind maps is to leverage visual cues in understanding topic relationships. They offer a snapshot of key points and connections between sub-topics.
Mind Mapping proves particularly valuable for visual learners, offering an alternative to traditional note-taking. Additionally, it serves as a memorisation tool, enabling learners to concentrate on essential concepts and minimise time spent on less crucial aspects. Are you now inclined to let your child do some drawing that is beneficial for their revision?
GCE O Level Tip #3 – Revise Within the Same Time Frame as Your Examination
Whether your child is a morning bird or night owl, it is crucial to help them align their revision schedule with the timing of their GCE O Level examinations. Consider this scenario: If your child is naturally a night owl but have an 8 am exam, their body will not be accustomed to alertness in the morning, let alone intensive thinking and writing for a two-hour paper. As parents, it is essential to help your child schedule their revision sessions as closely as possible to the exam times. This helps their body adapt to the demands of thinking and writing during the actual test.
Tip #4 – Take Short Breaks in Between Revision
While it is essential to maximise study sessions, it is also equally important to recognise the value of short breaks. Maintaining concentration and focus for an extended two-hour revision period is unlikely. In fact, after two hours of intense study, your child’s ability to absorb crucial concepts may diminish.
Consider incorporating a 30-minutes break for every two hours of revision into your child’s schedule. This practice can leave them feeling more alert and ready to continue their session. Breaks can also provide the brain with the opportunity to internalise the content, enhancing your child’s comprehension of key concepts.
GCE O Level Tip #5 – A Good Night’s Sleep is the Best Formula
One of the most effective ways to ensure that your child is well-prepared for their GCE O Level examinations is to ensure they get a proper night’s sleep. A typical 16-year-old teenager should aim for approximately 8 to 10 hours of sleep each night. While we understand that burning the midnight oil is a common practice among students, it is not a sustainable long-term strategy.
Insufficient rest and sleep can lead to daytime fatigue, which can significantly impede your child’s ability to concentrate. Therefore, it is paramount to prioritise getting adequate rest. This enables the body to recover and replenish energy, ensuring your child can start each day with full focus and vitality.
It is never too late to improve your child’s study habits and integrate these five tips into their revision routine. With these changes, your child is well-prepared to tackle their GCE O Level examinations!
