A Level courses are now gaining importance among students, as they play a vital role in the pre-university admissions process. Taking up A level courses gives the students an opportunity to stand out in their college applications. Hence, it becomes necessary to take extra preparation measures when it comes to A-level exams. The marks and results of the exam are critical for securing admissions to the top universities all over the world.
As the importance of the exams increases, the preparation also requires the same kind of dedication and importance. Here in this blog, we are going to list out a few pointers that will help you prepare for the A-level exams in the most dedicated way possible.
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Be on the lookout for good content
The first step to preparing for the A-level exams is to find top quality content that will aid in your preparation. Once you find the ideal study resources, the major part of the preparation is already done. To prepare for the exams, you will need to amp up your academic skills like researching, writing, making references, problem-solving, analytics, and critical thinking. Also, try to get hold of productivity apps that can help you evoke proper concentration during the groundwork of the exam. Always learn and read your course textbooks before going ahead with outside guides and study resources.
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Choose your subjects wisely
The first criteria that the students take into consideration while choosing the A-level subjects is the difficulty level. Most students take up subjects that they decide based on their peers who have taken the exam before. Ideally, this is not the right way to choose subjects. Students need to do a self-analysis of their future career prospects and select the subjects that support that. Taking the help of tutors in selecting the subjects and refraining from taking the easiest subjects as they will give you far more competition than the other A-level subjects.
The students can choose up to five subjects or even six subjects. Most universities expect you to take the marks of three subjects, and if you feel that any of the five chosen subjects are not working, you can drop those subjects over the course.
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Do past year papers and mock test papers
Previous year question papers of the subjects of your choosing can be used as practice papers to get an in-depth understanding of the format with which the question paper is curated and the difficulty level of the questions being asked in the examination. The allocation of marks and the marking scheme can be analyzed from the previous year’s question papers. When you attempt the previous question papers on a regular basis, you will be able to understand your strengths and weaknesses in that particular subject. There are many other sources that help you with mock test papers, which are timed tests that can give you a similar feel to the A-level exam.
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Reading examiner’s reports
Every year, the exam boards publicize examiners' reports on every subject. The examiner’s reports showcase necessary information on each subject and how the examiners expect the students to answer each question, as well as what they want to read from the students. The examiners also speak about what they don’t want students to write. The report also helps students understand what kind of trends and updates they need to anticipate in the upcoming examinations. Highlighting ways to improve the writing and tips to make the paper in a systematic way is also communicated through the examiner’s report.
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Review summaries and full notes
It is necessary to make pointers and summaries rather than go on with full-fledged notes, as they can be time consuming. Summarized notes are also the best way to help with the last-minute revision of the important sections of the subject. There are multiple other ways, like mind maps, spider diagrams, etc., that can help students with quick summarizing. Mind maps give you the visual imagery of the concepts, which is easier to retain as memory, and are the easiest way to go for information cards with concise information on different topics.
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Flashcards
The flashcards are one of the best ways to review topics, and therefore the most chosen method by students who have attempted the A-level exams. This is a great last-minute way to self-test one’s own knowledge. You can write down the answers and later check whether you have written the right answer. Mnemonics is the art of using rhymes and acronyms to help students easily remember data and information.
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Take breaks
Continuous studying can tire the brain after some time, and it will slow down the brain's ability to process information. So, taking a good set of breaks between each study session can help enhance the refining of information. During breaks, you can listen to some good music, and you can also go for a quick walk or even take a power nap to re-engage the brain to learn more and more topics.
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Take time to create good study schedule
Prepare a personal study schedule and never go ahead with a schedule that has been prepared by someone else. The reason behind this is that each student’s capability is different, and some require more time than others to grasp concepts. The timetable should be set for two months prior to the exam. Make a go-through list that will help you ensure that you have covered all the topics and concepts.
Every student takes up AP classes in hopes of getting into the top universities in the world. Sage AP classes in Dubai strive hard to make this dream come true. The faculty at our education facility is trained in approaching students with pedagogical knowledge and helping them embrace learning in a completely different dynamic. We have a credible and proven track record of meeting the highest expectations of students and their idea of attaining admission to world-class universities. Choose Sage Education Services to meet your child’s future goals.