GCSE revision ideas for the final few lessons

Looking for some fresh ideas for the last lessons before exams? At the end of April, we ran a week-long campaign on social media with ideas for teachers to help students remain calm, focused and able to access what they know. Here we’ve brought the tips together in one place, and most will stay relevant throughout the school year.

1. A ‘go-to’ list of all resources

All your favourite online revision resources in one handy list from @colleenyoung. Each with a snapshot of what it offers, in case you are looking for something new - see Examinations – Mathematics Summer 2022 from colleenyoung.org.

2. Start with what you know

What do I know, and what can I work out?’ – this can be a useful strategy for a student when faced with an exam question where the method is not immediately obvious.

3. Get familiar with formulae

Formulae in unfamiliar formats can throw a student off-course in an exam. Ensure students are familiar with the format given. Formula sheets and advance information for all exam boards at Maths Genie.

4. Check topic lists for each paper

Summer 2022 GCSE support includes advance info topic lists for each paper - essential for students (or teachers) feeling overwhelmed. Formula sheets and advance information for all exam boards at Maths Genie.

5. Here’s the answer: what’s the question?

Sometimes giving the calculation and asking students what is being calculated can help understanding of the reverse process. Try it with these – less obvious that you might think!

6. Classic mistakes

If you’ve marked a few exam papers in your time, you’ll know the classic mistakes, but do your students? How could you use this collection in revision sessions? See Classic Mistake Podcasts and Posters.

7. The power of a diagram

Would your students draw a diagram to help with this question? What would they draw? Could this be a better strategy than using algebra?

Find us on social media!

On Twitter @NCETM - find all posts from the campaign at #NCETMWeekInFocus.

On Facebook - National Centre for Excellence in the Teaching of Mathematics.