The first summer exams since 2019 start in a few weeks. Many teenagers sitting A levels, AS and GCSEs will never have sat an external exam before.
After years of assessed grades for exams during the pandemic the Welsh Government and exam regulator Qualifications Wales decided earlier this academic year that the best way forward was for exams to be sat this year. Some alterations have been made with content reduced to reflect continued disruption to education.
But this year's candidates, their parents and schools are likely to be more nervous than usual. While grading will be lower than for the past two years of assessed grades, exam content has been cut by as much as 40% in summer 2022. You can read more about how exams will be graded this summer here.
Dr Rachel Dodge, psychology subject officer at exam board the WJEC, who is a doctor in wellbeing and a parent herself, has explained how parents can help their children revise.
How do I encourage revision?
Your child needs the right mental attitude to be successful at revision. Some things to remember are:
- They will need to believe that revision will make a difference (it will).
- They will need encouragement to keep going, even if it seems hard.
- Encourage short bursts, rather than lengthy revision periods or cramming.
- They will need to know they are not alone in this task and can get help from their teachers, friends and support from you
How do I support my child in the best way?
If your child asks for your support, encourage them by helping them to see the difficulties in perspective.
Teenagers often take an all or nothing catastrophic approach to difficulties – "I’ve messed up this mock, I might as well give up." Try to balance out these negative thoughts with encouraging comments.
Remind them that this is only a short period of time, and they will have periods to relax in the summer.
How do I know my child is under stress?
Stress is a natural human response which has evolved as a survival mechanism. This is often referred to as the flight or fight response. However, stress signs vary from person to person.
You might find that your child is behaving differently from usual. Signs could include lack of concentration, avoiding people, being more sensitive, changing in eating habits and changes in sleep patterns. Get to know your child's stress signs and try to take action when they appear,
How can you get a good balance between revision and a teenager’s social life?
Agree the balance between work and social life, and stick to the agreement. Flexibility here is key. If a special night comes up, agree that they can make up the work at a specified time. It might be worth considering the 80/20 rule. If your child is sticking to what they are supposed to be doing 80% of the time, they will be doing alright.
What about the tricky issue of phones and other screens?
Rather than banning the use of smart phones and tablets, just reduce how much time is spent on these devices – they are not only a distraction, but excessive use, particularly before bedtime, can negatively impact on sleep.
Should I make changes their home life?
During this pressured time, try to make home life as calm and pleasant as possible. It helps if other members of the household are aware that your child may be under pressure and that allowances should be made for this.
How much should I know about the exams?
You don’t have to be an expert in any of the subjects your child chooses to make a real difference to their work. You just need to know how best to spend the time you do have to support your child.
If you do want to understand a bit more about what they are studying, you can visit the WJEC website where you will find a range of information, including the specification for the course.
You’ll also be able to access free revision resources to help learners prepare for their exams, and guidance on the changes we’ve made to qualifications to account for lost teaching and learning time.
What should I do before the exams?
Before each exam, make sure you know what day the exam is on, what time it starts, how long the exam is and what is being tested in each exam. Try to ensure that your child gets enough sleep, especially the night before exams.
Eating sensibly is vital, especially breakfast on exams days. Making sure your child has all the right equipment will take some stress away e.g. pens, sharp pencils, eraser, a ruler, a protractors, a calculator and a watch.
Finally, remember, whatever happens there is life after exams, keep telling your child that.
