Parents can help their child answer exam questions better by explaining how questions are structured. Questions follow Bloom’s Taxonomy, from lower-order recall words like define and list, to middle-order words like compare and explain, to higher-order words like evaluate and justify. Use these question words in everyday activities and homework, and focus on understanding rather than memorisation.
Learners should start preparing for exams about a month before they begin. Break each subject into manageable topics, spread them across that time and give extra time to difficult subjects. Study methods that suit your child’s learning style, practice with past papers, healthy food, enough water and sleep all support exam preparation.
Effective studying starts with identifying a child’s learning style and trying methods such as mind maps, flashcards and recorded notes. Use a suitable study space, break work into smaller sections, study in timed 20 to 25 minute intervals, shorter for younger children, and test what was learnt afterwards. A realistic daily timetable, enough sleep and parental support help too.
