Study Skills
The leap from GCSE to A Level is significant. The greatest challenge for students is the level of independence raises significantly. Students will have independent learning time on their timetables where they must self-manage and organise their own learning. At first this can be quite daunting for some students. Students can choose where they study during these times and there are a range of areas they can use in school:
- Sixth Form open area – a more relaxed environment where students can chat and work in groups
- PALS room (Progress, Advice, Learning, Support) - our learning mentor is based in this room and is on hand to support students with anything they need. This is a silent work area.
- D106 – this is a computer room sixth form can use
- Library
- Refectory and Servery
- Classrooms not in use
Teachers inform the sixth form team weekly on students’ progress. If a student is struggling with their self-management then they will be directed where to complete independent learning time. This may be in PALS or with subject teachers. Often, if timetables allow, then year 13 join in year 12 lessons as a revision strategy which works well.
If students are absent then it is their responsibility to catch up the work as directed by their subject teacher.
Through tutor time, students are taught how to use: Cornell Notes, flashcards, self quizzes, practice questions and brain splats as central study skills strategies.
Organisation is essential for success. Students will be given specific instructions by their subject teachers on how to organise their learning. These will be periodically checked by their teachers. Keeping all topic notes together, exam practice tests together and so on will make revision so much easier at exam times.
Useful Websites: