A reminder to all students undertaking a Unit 3 and 4 subject that all subjects are aiming to complete their courses by the end of Week 8 this term. The following week (Week 9) will be a revision week, ahead of the commencement of trial exams. This means that a very busy next few months lie ahead where students should be looking to use every advantage that they can. By making use of Study Hall periods and after school Nano Nagle tutoring (Tuesday and Thursday afternoons), students can manage their workloads during this very busy time.
The College runs trial exams for all Unit 3 and 4 subjects, to help prepare students for their final exams. Trial exams will begin on Friday 12 September and conclude on Friday 19 September. The timetable is available on SIMON, with exams running throughout each day and, like VCAA exams, concluding as late as 5.30pm.
Students should begin preparing for trial exams now, by revising past content that will be assessed on their final exams. Revision should include Edrolo and past exam papers. Students should be using evidence-based revision techniques, such as Spaced Repetition and Active Recall, which were explained in the previous Newsletter, and Interleaved Practice and Practice Testing, which are explained below.
What is Interleaved Practice?
Interleaved practice involves mixing different subjects or types of problems within a single study session, rather than focusing on one topic at a time. This technique contrasts with traditional 'blocked' practice, where you study one subject thoroughly before moving on to the next.
How to Implement Interleaved Practice
To implement interleaved practice, alternate between different subjects or problem types during your study sessions. For example, instead of spending an entire hour on math followed by an hour on English, spend 20 minutes on math, then 20 minutes on English, and then 20 minutes on another subject. The key is to mix up the content, so your brain is continually challenged to retrieve and apply different types of information.
Why It Works
Research has shown that interleaved practice enhances problem-solving skills and adaptability. By constantly switching between different topics, your brain is forced to work harder to retrieve the correct information, leading to deeper learning and better retention. This technique helps you become more versatile in applying knowledge across various contexts, which is crucial during exams.
What is Practice Testing?
Practice testing involves taking practice exams or quizzes to assess your knowledge and identify areas for improvement. This technique not only tests your recall but also familiarizes you with the exam format and timing.
How to Implement Practice Testing
To implement practice testing, use past exam papers, online quizzes, or create your own tests. Schedule regular testing sessions, simulating exam conditions as closely as possible. After completing each test, review your answers and focus on understanding any mistakes.
Why It Works
Research indicates that practice testing is one of the most effective ways to improve exam performance and retention. By regularly testing yourself, you enhance your ability to retrieve information and apply it under exam conditions. This repeated retrieval practice strengthens your memory and helps you identify areas where you need further study.
All Year 10-12 students are invited to attend Nano Nagle tutoring sessions on Tuesday and Thursday afternoons in MQ28 (VCE Study Centre). Sessions run from 3.30pm to 4.25pm. Tutors specialise in a range of common subjects, and can also offer advice regarding study habits, managing workload, and preparing for assessment tasks.
This year, the end of Year 11 exams (in November) will include content from both Units 1 and 2. This will assist VCE students in building better revision skills and prepare them for the rigour of Year 12 exams. Students who have transferred into a new Unit 2 subject should speak to their teacher about the most important Unit 1 content to learn.
back
